What do you think distracted driving is?

If you think that it refers to when someone is driving and is texting or talking on the phone, or even changing their music playlist; then you are exactly right.

Distracted driving, when simply put, refers to any action that drivers perform that is unrelated to their duties as drivers and impairs their ability to drive safely.

Distracted driving has been a leading cause of deaths and injuries related to car accidents, which is why states, such as Texas, have enacted laws to help curb the problem.

The purpose of Texas distracted driving laws is to help alleviate the consequences that arise from the distraction of individuals by texting, calling or even grooming when they are in control of their vehicles.

Texting while driving is the number one most common form of distracted driving.

Below are the four most common financial, social, and legal consequences associated with Texting while driving, which is the prime example for distracted driving:

1. Legal Consequences

Texas distracted driving laws state that first-time offenders are liable to a fine of between $25 and $99, while repeat offenders who have not harmed others pay between $100 and $200 with no points added to their records.

However, a distracted driver who crashes, resulting in the injury or death of an individual, can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor under Texas distracted driving laws. This charge carries a fine that does not exceed $4,000 and less than one year of jail time.

2. Car Accidents

In 2013, the National Highway and Traffic Transport and Safety Authority reported that one in every ten fatal crashes could be traced back to texting while driving. 424,000 people were also injured that year in accidents involving distracted drivers.

Distracted driving not only risks the life of drivers but also passengers and pedestrians.

3. Financial Consequences

Drivers who have accumulated points or have been cited multiple times for the violation of Texas distracted driving laws are likely to be charged higher insurance premiums than other drivers.

4. Loss of Driving Privileges

Drivers can have their driving licenses suspended for having multiple distracted driving citations. Those whose distracted driving kill or injure others typically have their driving privileges revoked instead.

Lastly, texting is the number one distraction when driving, do not be one of those people that is a hazard to the safety of others. Drive safe everything else can wait.