As Americans, there are two things we all universally love: driving and staying in touch. Since cell phones have increased in popularity over the last decade, the use of mobile phones while driving has also increased. Unfortunately, car accidents caused by cell phone usage are also rising at an alarming rate, with 28% of all accidents being caused while using a mobile phone.
The Texas Senate recently approved a measure that would ban texting, sending emails and instant messages while driving. According to state Sen. Judith Zaffirini, “texting while driving is 23 times more dangerous than non-distracted driving and 17 times more dangerous than talking on the phone while driving“.
So what does this mean for Texas drivers?
Texas drivers are not only responsible for their own safety, but also for the well-being of other drivers and pedestrians. As a result of the new law, Texas drivers will now be held accountable if they are involved in an accident while texting.
How can you properly protect yourself? To begin, drivers should make it a top priority to ensure that they have the most effective vehicle coverage, before heading out onto the road. As a licensed driver, it’s important for you to understand the different coverages available through your Texas auto insurance policy:
- Liability: insurance for property damage and injuries to others caused by you while operating your vehicle
- Medical: overage for the driver and occupants of the insured vehicle.
- Collision: insures the owner from loss during a collision with another vehicle.
- Comprehensive: protection from damage caused by things other than vehicle collision.
Having the correct – and necessary – insurance is the first step drivers can take to help safeguard themselves, their vehicles and others with whom they share the road.
With new driving laws frequently being passed, it’s important that you have the right coverage to protect yourself from any consequences. Dagley Insurance & Financial Services, Inc. understands the risks involved with driving and want to ensure that no Texas driver is left behind!