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Cell Phones
One in four crashes involves driver distraction.
Drivers who use cell phones in their vehicles have a
higher risk of collision than drivers who don’t –
whether holding the phone or using a hands-free
device.
Although Texas has no law banning the use of cell
phones while driving, we encourage you to drive now and
talk later. If you must make a phone call, pull over.
Otherwise, wait until you reach your destination to use
the phone.
Railroad Crossings
In a collision with a train, you are 40 times more
likely to be killed than if you were in a collision with
another car. Therefore, we urge you to remember these
tips while driving near railroad crossings:
- Reduce speed when approaching crossings and look
both ways.
- Turn down your stereo and listen for a train.
- If red lights are flashing or if crossing arms
have been lowered, stop.
- Never stop on the tracks. A train going 50 miles
per hour needs a mile and a half to stop.
- Be sure all tracks are clear before crossing –
there may be more than one set.
Texas law requires motorists to yield the right of
way to trains. It is also against the law to cross
tracks if a train is visible or to drive around gates
that have been lowered at a railroad crossing. If the
gates are down and no train is coming, the road is
closed.
Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of
weather-related deaths in Texas. As little as six inches
of water can float some vehicles. If you encounter a
flooded road, Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
- Never try to walk, swim or drive through swift
water.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you
are driving.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and
move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
- Don’t move, tamper with or drive around barriers
blocking a low-water crossing. Penalties range from
$200 to $1,000 and/or two years in jail.
Penalties for Multiple Driving Offenses
The Texas Driver Responsibility Program penalizes
drivers convicted of speeding, driving without a valid
license or breaking certain other traffic laws. Drivers
receive two points on their driver license for a moving
violation and three points if the moving violation
causes a traffic collision.
If you accumulate six or more points during a
three-year period, you’ll receive a bill from the Texas
Department of Public Safety (DPS):
- $100 for the first six points
- $25 for each additional point
Points remain on your record for three years. Certain
offenses, including DWI convictions, result in
additional surcharges you have to pay each year for
three years. For more information, visit the DPS
Web site. |
