SUV Strikes Utility Pole in San Antonio, Distracted Driving Suspected
Two men are lucky to be alive after their SUV struck a utility pole and flipped over. According to the San Antonio Police Department, the accident occurred on the Northwest Side at about 2 a.m. July 21, 2021. In addition to the police, the EMS and fire department also responded to the accident, which took place at the intersection of Callaghan and Ingram roads. Both men suffered only minor injuries and were treated by EMS at the scene. While police do not believe that alcohol played a part in the car accident, they do believe that distracted driving may have been to blame.
Distracted driving has long been an issue not only in San Antonio but also across Texas and the rest of the U.S. As a result, Texas has made it illegal to text while behind the wheel. Additionally, some cities in Texas have prohibited any type of cell phone use while driving. But regardless of the law, texting, like any type of activity that distracts the driver, is unsafe.
Cell Phone Laws in Texas
Since using a cell phone while driving can be so dangerous, Texas has implemented laws to reduce distracted driving. While you are behind the wheel you should never:
● Send or receive text messages
● Use a cell phone if you have your learner’s permit until you have been driving for more than six months
● Use a cell phone or other handheld electronic device while under the age of 18
● Use a cell phone while driving a school bus
● Use a phone or other handheld device while in a school zone
Distracted Driving Can Include Almost Anything
While there is no doubt that cell phone use is one of the most prevalent types of distracted driving, it is not the only type. Anything that takes your hands off of the wheel, eyes off of the road, or mind off of what you are doing is considered a form of distracted driving. Therefore distracted driving may include things such as:
● Applying makeup
● Brushing your hair
● Eating
● Drinking
● Changing the radio
● Talking to passengers
Let a Texas Distracted Driving Injury Attorney Help
If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other damages. A New Braunfels, Texas car accident attorney can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact the Bettersworth Law Firm at 830-443-9193 today.
Sources:
https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2021/07/21/2-men-treated-after-suv-hits-utility-pole-rolls-over-at-northwest-side-intersection/
https://www.txdot.gov/driver/safety/cellphones.html#:~:text=Texting%20while%20driving%20is%20illegal,dangerous%20because%20it’s%20distracted%20driving.&text=You%20cannot%20send%20or%20receive%20electronic%20messages%20while%20driving%20in%20Texas.
