Suppose you or a loved one has been injured in a collision caused by a distracted driver. In that case, you’re likely facing a whirlwind of challenges, painful injuries, mounting expenses, missed work, and unanswered questions. The road to recovery can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. 

At The Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec, we are here to guide you through this difficult time, help you pursue the compensation you deserve, and support your path toward a more secure future.

What Is Distracted Driving?

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the safe operation of their vehicle. These distractions can be visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (removing your hands from the wheel), or cognitive (taking your mind off driving). Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to devastating consequences.

Examples of Distracted Driving:

  • Texting or reading messages
  • Scrolling through social media
  • Using GPS or adjusting the radio
  • Talking with passengers or on the phone (even hands-free)
  • Eating or drinking
  • Grooming or applying makeup
  • Reaching for items or tending to pets, or children

These seemingly small actions can lead to serious outcomes such as rear-end crashes, side-impact collisions, or multi-vehicle pileups, especially in congested areas like Houston, where quick reactions are critical.

Why Distracted Driving Is So Dangerous

In a bustling city like Houston, where drivers must constantly respond to fast-changing traffic conditions, distractions reduce situational awareness and delay response times. Distracted drivers may miss red lights, fail to yield, drift into other lanes, or react too slowly to avoid collisions. 

This endangers not only themselves but everyone else on the road, drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents in the state. 

In 2024, nearly one in five crashes on Texas roads were caused by a distracted driver, in which 373 people died and 2,587 were seriously injured.

Texas Laws on Distracted Driving

Texas has enacted strict laws to combat distracted driving. Under Texas Transportation Code § 545.4251, texting while driving is illegal statewide. Additional restrictions include:

  • Drivers with learner’s permits may not use cell phones in the first six months.
  • All handheld device use is banned in school zones.
  • Drivers under 18 cannot use handheld devices.
  • School bus drivers may not use cell phones if children are present.

These laws are enforced under primary enforcement, meaning an officer can pull you over solely for using a device while driving, regardless of whether other traffic violations occurred.

Building a Strong Legal Claim After a Distracted Driving Accident

Establishing fault in a distracted driving accident requires proving negligence. This includes showing that the at-fault driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, caused the accident, and that you suffered measurable damages.

Evidence May Include:

  • Cell phone records
  • Police reports
  • Video footage from traffic or security cameras
  • Witness testimony
  • Photos from the crash scene
  • Medical records and expert reports

Our legal team will thoroughly investigate your case to gather evidence, consult expert witnesses, and reconstruct the events that led to the crash.

Compensation You May Be Entitled To

You may be entitled to significant compensation if a distracted driver’s negligence caused your injuries. This includes:

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Property damage
  • Disability or disfigurement
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium (for spouses)

Our team will help you document these losses, assess their value, and negotiate aggressively with insurers. If needed, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Can I Prove the Other Driver Was Distracted?

Proof can come from phone records, eyewitness accounts, traffic camera footage, or police observations. In some cases, expert analysis of crash data and vehicle telematics may support your claim.

What If I Was Partially at Fault?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re less than 51% responsible for the crash, you can still recover damages, though your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?

Under Texas law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long could mean forfeiting your right to compensation, so it’s important to act quickly.

Why Choose The Law Office of Shane R. Kadlec?

Our Houston-based personal injury lawyers are passionate about advocating for injury victims. We provide:

  • Thorough case evaluations
  • Detailed investigations using phone records, accident reports, and witness statements
  • Aggressive representation in negotiations and trials
  • Ongoing communication and support so you always know where your case stands

We understand the emotional and financial stress that follows a serious accident. Our goal is to remove those burdens so you can focus on healing. 

Contact Us for a Free Case Evaluation

If you or someone you care about has been harmed due to a distracted driver, don’t wait to seek justice. Our team is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 281-643-2000 today or visit our website to schedule a free consultation.

Let us stand by your side and help you move forward with confidence.