Texting While Driving Accidents - Universal Law Group

Texting While Driving: A Growing Danger on Our Roads

Texting while driving has become one of the most dangerous and preventable causes of car accidents in today’s world. As personal injury attorneys at Universal Law Group, we have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of distracted driving, particularly when caused by texting. This subpage of our car accident section explores the risks, legal implications, and steps you can take if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a driver distracted by their phone. Our goal is to inform you about the dangers of texting while driving and provide guidance on seeking justice and compensation for injuries sustained in such crashes.

The Dangers of Texting While Driving

Texting while driving is a form of distracted driving that involves visual, manual, and cognitive distractions all at once. When a driver takes their eyes off the road to read or send a text, their hands off the wheel to type, and their mind off the task of driving, the risk of a crash skyrockets. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), sending or reading a text takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds—equivalent to driving the length of a football field at 55 mph without looking. In 2022 alone, distracted driving contributed to 3,308 fatalities and an estimated 289,310 injuries in the United States, with texting being a leading cause.

The statistics are alarming, but the human toll is even more profound. A single moment of inattention can lead to catastrophic consequences, including rear-end collisions, head-on crashes, or accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. Victims of texting-while-driving accidents often suffer severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, or even wrongful death. Beyond physical injuries, these accidents can result in emotional trauma, financial burdens from medical bills, and lost wages due to time away from work. At Universal Law Group, we understand the far-reaching impact of these incidents and are committed to helping victims hold negligent drivers accountable.

Why Texting While Driving Is So DangerousTexting while driving is uniquely dangerous because it combines all three types of distractions:

Visual Distraction: Looking at a phone screen to read or send a text diverts a driver’s eyes from the road, making it impossible to react to sudden changes, such as a car stopping ahead or a pedestrian crossing.
Manual Distraction: Holding a phone and typing a message requires one or both hands, reducing a driver’s ability to steer or brake effectively.
Cognitive Distraction: Composing or reading a text takes a driver’s mental focus away from driving, delaying reaction times and impairing decision-making.

Studies show that texting while driving increases the likelihood of a crash by up to 23 times compared to driving without distractions. Young drivers, particularly those aged 16–24, are especially prone to texting while driving, but the issue spans all age groups. The rise of smartphones and social media has only exacerbated the problem, making it critical for drivers to recognize the risks and prioritize safety.

Legal Consequences of Texting While Driving

In Texas, texting while driving is illegal under a statewide ban enacted in 2017. The law prohibits drivers from using handheld devices to read, write, or send electronic messages while operating a vehicle, with fines up to $99 for a first offense and $200 for subsequent offenses. In some cases, if texting while driving leads to a serious accident, the driver may face criminal charges, such as reckless driving or even vehicular manslaughter if the crash results in a fatality.

For victims of texting-while-driving accidents, the legal implications extend beyond traffic fines. If a distracted driver causes an accident, they can be held liable for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Proving that the at-fault driver was texting requires a thorough investigation, which may involve obtaining phone records, witness statements, or traffic camera footage. At Universal Law Group, our experienced personal injury attorneys have the resources and expertise to build a strong case, ensuring that negligent drivers are held accountable for their actions.

The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by a driver texting, a personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complex process of seeking compensation. At Universal Law Group, we understand that the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, with mounting medical bills, insurance disputes, and emotional distress. Our team is dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

Here’s how we can assist:

Investigating the Accident: We work with accident reconstruction experts, obtain phone records, and gather evidence to prove the at-fault driver was texting.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame to the victim. We handle all communications with insurers to protect your interests.
Pursuing Maximum Compensation: We assess the full extent of your damages, including medical costs, lost income, future care needs, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Litigating When Necessary: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for justice.

Our Managing Partner, Brian Nguyen, brings years of experience prosecuting and defending cases, including personal injury claims. His commitment to delivering effective and efficient service ensures that every client receives personalized attention and aggressive representation.

Steps to Take After a Texting-While-Driving Accident

If you’re involved in a crash caused by a texting driver, taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim:

Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation immediately. Some injuries, like concussions or whiplash, may not be apparent right away.
Report the Accident: Call the police to file an official report. Be sure to mention if you suspect the other driver was texting.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: Do not provide a recorded statement or accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney.
Contact Universal Law Group: Schedule a free case evaluation with our team to discuss your options and begin building your case.

Preventing Texting While DrivingWhile our firm is dedicated to helping victims of texting-while-driving accidents, prevention is the best solution. Here are some tips to avoid distracted driving:

Use Hands-Free Technology: If you need to use your phone, opt for voice-activated features or hands-free devices.
Enable Do Not Disturb: Many smartphones have a “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode that silences notifications.
Pull Over Safely: If you must send a text, find a safe place to pull over and stop your vehicle.
Educate Others: Talk to friends and family, especially young drivers, about the dangers of texting while driving.

Why Choose Universal Law Group?

At Universal Law Group, we are committed to protecting the rights of accident victims. Our team, led by Managing Partner Brian Nguyen, has extensive experience handling personal injury cases, including those involving distracted driving. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of a car accident and are dedicated to securing the compensation you need to move forward. From investigating the cause of the crash to negotiating with insurance companies, we handle every aspect of your case with care and precision.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by a texting driver, don’t wait to seek legal help. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Contact Universal Law Group today to schedule a free case evaluation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call us or visit our website to book your consultation and take the first step toward justice.