Pledge to Never Drive Distracted this April
Published on April 03, 2023
San Antonio Municipal Court shares driver safety resources
SAN ANTONIO (April 3, 2023) - April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the San Antonio Municipal Court is reminding residents to prioritize road safety and avoid distracted driving. Drivers are urged to put down their cellphones and stay focused on the road while driving. As part of its Drive SAfely SA campaign, the Municipal Court will be distributing road safety resources throughout the month.
"Distracted driving is a preventable problem that can have serious consequences for drivers, passengers, and innocent bystanders,” said Presiding Municipal Court Judge Carla Obledo. “We urge everyone to take this issue seriously and make a commitment to stay focused while driving. Together, we can reduce the number of distracted driving incidents and make our roads safer for everyone."
Cellphone use by drivers is considered the most dangerous form of distracted driving because it involves visual, manual, and cognitive distraction. A City of San Antonio Ordinance prohibits drivers from using handheld mobile communication devices for making calls, sending or reading text messages, viewing pictures or written text, engaging in gaming, or any other use of the device while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers who violate this law, even while stopped at a red light or stop sign, may face a fine of up to $200.
In addition to using cellphones, other common distractions while driving include adjusting the radio, setting the navigation system, grooming, eating, or drinking. These distractions can be dangerous not only for the driver but also for passengers. According to the latest statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), 431 people died in crashes statewide involving distracted driving in 2021. That was a 17% increase from 2020 and a 14% increase from 2019. Serious injuries increased by 33% from 2020 to 2,935 serious injuries due to distracted driving.
Teens who observe their parents driving while distracted are 2-4 times more likely to engage in distracted driving themselves. For more information and facts about distracted driving, visit the following websites: