Denton Texas Moves to Ban Texting While Driving

10 Mar Denton Texas Moves to Ban Texting While Driving

UPDATE (12/07/2016) — Denton City Council has now banned ALL handheld use of electronic devices while driving. This new “hands-free” law will go into effect June 1st, 2017.

UPDATE (05/07/2014) — Denton City Council has unanimously voted 7-0 to ban texting while driving.

Texting while driving might seem like a harmless practice due to the proliferation of digital devices, but the resulting accidents from individuals doing this tell a different story. When you’re on the road, your total attention is needed in order to avert a car accident. Even though it might be tempting to read a message from a loved one, it’s ALWAYS a better idea to wait until you’ve parked your car somewhere safe to do so.

New Texting Law

Texas has passed laws banning the use of handheld devices (prohibeted in school zones as well as for novice drivers, truck drivers, and bus drivers). However, there is no state-wide law… yet. A new law is set to change the status quo in Denton, Texas. The Denton city council is currently in the process of enacting legislation to ban texting while driving. The law also covers other risky activities such as checking email and using social media, which includes Twitter and Facebook.

Broad Definitions

The council members present also suggested that the law needs to have a broader definition in order to cover all forms of non-essential electronic use while driving. Despite the city council’s efforts, the public is somewhat divided on whether texting while driving should be outlawed. A recent survey done online which targeted Denton residents showed that 190 were in favor of the ban while 146 weren’t.

Car Accident Statistics and Causes

The reluctance by members of the public still doesn’t take away from the fact that texting while driving may result in tragic car or truck accidents. A study done by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute reports that a driver who is texting while driving is 23 times more likely to be involved in an accident compared to other drivers.

Even though there is no state law prohibiting cell phone use while driving, many Texas towns have either gone hands-free or passed their own texting while driving ordinances.

** UPDATE: Texas has now banned texting while driving statewide!

Expected Compensation

If you were a victim of a car accident and you believe the other party was texting or using their mobile phone while driving, you may be entitled to compensation to cover the following costs:

• Lost wages
• Medical bills
• Rehabilitation costs
• Pain and suffering
• Future medical bills

Get Help Today!

Were you a victim of a car accident, and you believe the other party was texting or using their mobile phone while driving? You need the representation of an experienced Texas car accident attorney. Our law firm is located in the uptown area of Dallas, Texas.  If you’d like to reach us, please call us at 1-877-659-1620. We offer free consultations and are accessible everyday, 24 hours a day.