Texas road signs may be distracting drivers

Like everywhere else in the United States, distraction is a serious safety concern on Texas roads. When a driver is distracted, he or she is much more likely to cause an accident. While there are many things that can cause a driver to lose focus, phones are a common culprit. In an effort to encourage safe driving and discouraging drivers from looking at their phones, Texas installed safe driving reminders along the roads. A study found that these signs may actually be distracting drivers.

Helpful or harmful?

To encourage safe driving and lower the chance of accidents, Texas authorities placed signs on the sides of the roads that posted annual highway death tolls. These digital signs were meant to remind drivers of how dangerous unsafe driving can be and how many people die in preventable accidents each year. They were successful in getting drivers’ attention, but they also increased the chance of a crash.

Statistics found that drivers who passed these signs were more likely to get in an accident within the next six miles. The chance of a fatal crash was 4.5 times higher for drivers who passed these signs than those who did not. The project was intended to be an easy way to prevent accidents, but it actually caused more motor vehicle crashes.

Distraction and other safety concerns

Those harmed in accidents caused by a distracted driver have legal options. Through a civil claim, a victim may be able to claim compensation for his or her losses and other damages. A Texas driver may find it helpful to seek the help of an experienced personal injury attorney when navigating this process.