Cell Phone Laws for Texas Drivers

Texas Governor Rick Perry vetoed the Legislature's plan to ban text messaging for all drivers, calling the legislation "a government effort to micromanage the behavior of adults." Instead, Perry argued that "the keys to dissuading drivers of all ages from texting while driving are information and education."

Around a dozen bills addressing texting and driving were considered during the 2011 Senate and House sessions. Two new Texas distracted driving laws have recently been put in effect: one prohibiting drivers from using handheld cell phones in school crossing zones, and the other banning teen drivers from using cell phones and text messaging devices. Other Texas statutes prohibit drivers under the age of 18 from using wireless communication devices and prohibit school bus operators from using cell phones while driving if children are present.

The cities of Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Amarillo, El Paso, Galveston, Missouri City and Stephenville are among the Texas cities that have enacted local distracted driving laws. If you have been involved in an accident with a distracted driver and you believe there might be negligence involved, it is in your best interests to hire an Austin auto accident lawyer. At The Doan Law Firm, P.C., we understand the pain and suffering that can result from an auto accident, and we are here to guide and support you in filing a claim. Contact an Austin car accident attorney today if you have been the victim of a car accident.