Houston’s roads are busy around the clock, and distracted driving remains a serious concern. With more drivers using mobile devices, accidents caused by inattention continue to rise. To reduce risks, it’s important to understand Houston hands-free driving laws and how they apply across Texas.
At Orange Law Firm, Attorney Karan Joshi and our team help drivers navigate these regulations and represent victims injured by distracted drivers throughout Houston and Harris County.
Why Hands-Free Driving Rules Matter in Houston
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) states that 1 in every 5 crashes involves a distracted driver. In a large metro area like Houston, that translates to hundreds of preventable collisions each week. The most common distractions include phone calls, texting, GPS use, and infotainment systems.
Even hands-free devices can reduce your focus. Bluetooth calls and voice-controlled commands still require mental attention, which can delay your reaction time, especially in Houston’s stop-and-go traffic or during sudden weather shifts.
Understanding and following Houston hands-free driving laws can reduce the likelihood of being found at fault in a crash and help keep others on the road safe.
Texas Distracted Driving Laws: What You Can and Cannot Do
While Texas doesn’t prohibit all phone use while driving, there are strict rules in place:
Prohibited Actions Under Texas Law:
- Texting while driving is banned for all drivers statewide.
- Drivers under 18 cannot use wireless communication devices at all.
- Drivers with learner’s permits cannot use phones for the first six months.
- School bus drivers are prohibited from phone use when children are present.
- All drivers are banned from handheld phone use in school zones.
Although there is no specific Houston ordinance banning hands-free phone use, Houston Hands-Free Driving Laws still apply throughout the city. If you’re using a device and cause an accident, you may be held liable.
Local and Statewide Efforts for Safer Roads
Houston has previously engaged in awareness campaigns like the “It Can Wait, Houston” initiative, which focused on curbing distracted driving. While the city hasn’t passed a local hands-free ordinance, many other Texas cities, including Austin and San Antonio, have implemented stricter rules.
Lawmakers continue pushing for broader state regulations. Bills such as House Bill 80 and Senate Bill 25 aimed to restrict electronic device usage further. These efforts reflect growing public concern over distracted driving and support for enforcing Houston hands-free driving laws more rigorously.
Penalties for Distracted Driving in Houston
Violating Texas distracted driving laws can lead to serious consequences:
- Fines from $25 up to $200 for a first offense
- Up to $500 in fines and possible jail time if an accident causes injury or death
- Civil liability in personal injury cases
- Increased insurance premiums
If you’re involved in a collision while using a device, your actions can be used as evidence against you. This is especially relevant in cases handled by a distracted driving accident lawyer in Houston, who may investigate mobile phone usage during crashes.
Key Statistics on Texas Distracted Driving
TxDOT data shows how widespread the issue has become:
- A crash occurs every 66 seconds in Texas
- Over 237,000 people were injured in road accidents in one year
- Distracted driving incidents rose 4% year-over-year
- Nearly half of injured drivers weren’t wearing seat belts
While not every crash is tied directly to phone use, Houston Hands-Free Driving Laws show that greater focus behind the wheel could have prevented many of these injuries and fatalities.
Safe Driving Tips to Stay Compliant
Follow these safety practices to reduce the risk of distraction:
Before You Drive:
- Activate Do Not Disturb mode
- Program your GPS before leaving
- Set music or call functions in advance
While Driving:
- Use voice commands only when necessary
- Never read or respond to messages
- Pull over if you must handle your device
Even if you’re following Houston hands-free driving laws, your mind may still be distracted. Mental focus is as important as physical control.
What to Do After a Distracted Driving Accident
If you were involved in a crash caused by a distracted driver, you may have a legal claim. Working with an experienced Houston Hands-Free Driving Laws can help prove driver negligence and recover compensation.
Attorney Karan Joshi at Orange Law Firm investigates thoroughly by:
- Subpoenaing phone records
- Reviewing traffic and dash cam footage
- Collecting witness statements
- Consulting accident reconstruction specialists
- Handling insurance negotiations and, if needed, filing a lawsuit
Our legal team works with victims across Harris County and Southeast Texas to hold negligent drivers accountable.
When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Speak with a lawyer immediately after any crash involving:
- A distracted driver
- Severe or long-term injuries
- Disputes over who caused the crash
- An uninsured or underinsured driver
- Fatalities or permanent disabilities
There are strict deadlines under Texas law. Waiting too long could jeopardize your case.
Contact Orange Law Firm
Orange Law Firm is committed to protecting drivers across Houston and Harris County. If you’ve been injured by a distracted or careless driver, we’re here to help.
Call 713-885-9787 for a free consultation
Serving Houston, Harris County, and all of Southeast Texas
Let a trusted Houston car accident attorney fight for your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.
