Sadly, distracted driving is still near the top of the list when it comes to crashes on Texas roadways, coming in at No. 2 for traffic crash causes.

Last year Texas roadways saw nearly one in five crashes caused by a distracted driver, resulting in 364 lost lives and 2,200 serious injuries, TxDOT reports.

“A serious or fatal crash can happen in an instant,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “If you’re distracted by your phone, or doing anything else that takes your focus away from driving, you’re putting yourself, your passengers and everyone else on the road at risk. Distracted driving crashes are 100 percent preventable. Driving should be your No. 1 priority behind the wheel – everything else can wait.”

TxDOT is re-launching its web-based augmented reality game “Dart Those Distractions” to reinforce the importance of paying attention behind the wheel.

Research shows that regardless of whether a driver uses a voice-to-text program, hands-free device or a handheld one, the distraction will affect the driver’s ability to drive safely.

Since September 1, 2017, it has been illegal to read, write or send a text while driving in Texas. Violators can face a fine up to $200.

TxDOT’s distracted driving awareness campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel. Nov. 7, 2000 was the last deathless day on Texas roadways.

Source: TxDOT