Driving is an everyday task for most Texans, but even the most experienced drivers can develop dangerous habits. Many of these behaviors may seem harmless but can significantly increase the risk of a life-threatening car accident.
Here, you will find nine common driving habits that could lead to catastrophic consequences and what you can do to protect yourself on the road. If you’ve been involved in an accident, a car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi can provide essential legal support to help you recover damages.
1. Speeding: A Silent Killer
Speeding is one of the most dangerous driving habits and remains a leading cause of fatal car accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding accounted for 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2021.
This risk is even more pronounced in Texas, where highways are vast and often tempting for drivers to go beyond the speed limit. If you or a loved one is involved in an accident caused by a speeding driver, a Corpus Christi car accident lawyer can help hold the responsible party accountable.
Texas Speeding Laws
Under Texas law, exceeding the posted speed limit can result in fines or even jail time, depending on the severity of the infraction. More importantly, the aftermath of a speeding-related accident can lead to serious personal injury claims.
2. Distracted Driving: More Than Just Texting
While texting and driving are widely recognized as dangerous, many forms of distracted driving can result in serious accidents. This includes eating, fiddling with the radio, and even daydreaming. In 2021, distracted driving resulted in 3,522 fatalities nationwide, and it remains a significant issue in Texas.
The Law Against Distracted Driving
Texas has strict distracted driving laws, particularly regarding the use of mobile devices. Violating these laws can result in severe penalties, and if distracted driving leads to an accident, you should consult a Corpus Christi auto accident attorney to explore your legal options.
3. Tailgating: The Risk of Rear-End Collisions
Following too closely behind another vehicle, known as tailgating, is a common but dangerous habit. Tailgating reduces the reaction time needed to avoid a collision, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Rear-end accidents are often considered the fault of the tailgating driver, and if you’re injured in such a crash, a car wreck lawyer near me can help you navigate the legal process.
Texas Tailgating Laws
Texas law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance to avoid collisions. Failure to do so can result in a citation and liability for any resulting accidents.
4. Running Red Lights: Ignoring the Law
Running red lights is a dangerous habit that significantly increases the risk of T-bone collisions. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 928 people were killed in 2020 due to red-light running accidents. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone running a red light, an injury lawyer in Texas can help you seek compensation.
Penalties for Running Red Lights in Texas
Running a red light in Texas can result in fines and points on your driving record. More importantly, if this behavior causes an accident, you may be liable for the damages.
5. Ignoring Blind Spots: A Recipe for Disaster
Failing to check blind spots before changing lanes is a frequent cause of accidents, especially on highways. This is particularly dangerous for motorcyclists and cyclists who may not be visible in a vehicle’s mirrors.
Accidents involving blind spots can lead to severe injuries, requiring legal intervention from a Corpus Christi auto accident attorney.
Texas Law and Blind Spot Accidents
In Texas, drivers are required to ensure that a lane change is safe by checking their mirrors and blind spots. Failing to do so can result in a citation and civil liability for any resulting accidents.
6. Failing to Signal: Unpredictable and Dangerous
Using turn signals is essential for communicating your intentions to other drivers. Failing to signal a lane change or turn is not just inconsiderate—it can lead to serious accidents. A Corpus Christi car accident lawyer can assist with your claim if you’re involved in an accident caused by another driver failing to signal.
Texas Law on Signaling
Texas law mandates using turn signals when changing lanes or making turns. Violations can result in fines and increased liability in the event of an accident.
7. Driving Under the Influence: A Leading Cause of Fatalities
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs remains one of the most dangerous driving behaviors. In 2021, there were 1,072 fatalities from DUI-related crashes in Texas alone. If a drunk driver has injured you, an injury lawyer in Texas can help you seek justice.
Texas DUI Laws
Texas has zero tolerance for DUI. A first-time offender can face up to $2,000 in fines, a year of license suspension, and up to six months in jail. If an intoxicated driver causes an accident, they may also face civil liability for the damages.
8. Drowsy Driving: A Hidden Danger
Driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. According to the National Safety Council, drowsy driving is responsible for 100,000 crashes each year, many of which result in serious injuries or fatalities. A car wreck lawyer near me can help with your case if you’re involved in a drowsy driving accident.
Texas Law and Drowsy Driving
While there aren’t specific laws against drowsy driving, drivers who cause fatigue-related accidents can still be held liable for any resulting damages.
9. Aggressive Driving: Road Rage on the Rise
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as weaving in and out of traffic, honking excessively, or making rude gestures, can escalate into road rage incidents. These behaviors increase the likelihood of serious accidents. If you’re the victim of an aggressive driving accident, a Corpus Christi car accident lawyer can assist you in seeking compensation.
Penalties for Aggressive Driving in Texas
In Texas, aggressive driving can result in citations and even criminal charges, particularly if it causes an accident.
Contact Us Today
Have you or a loved one been injured in a car accident due to any of these dangerous driving habits? If so, it’s essential to consult a qualified Corpus Christi car accident lawyer.
The experienced team at Burkett Law Firm can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—contact a trusted Corpus Christi auto accident attorney today at 361-223-6863.
