As a Texas motorist, you and your passengers face a variety of perils on roads and highways, including the risk of death as the result of an accident. The Texas Department of Transportation notes that deaths on state roadways decreased since 2017; however, almost 3,000 individuals perished in accidents during 2018, with thousands more seriously injured.
Understanding the factors behind these deaths and catastrophic injuries may help you remain more aware of the dangers present as you travel in Texas.
Lack of seatbelt usage
Despite state laws, not all drivers and passengers wear seat belts, and this can lead to major injuries or death during an accident. Those not restrained may get ejected from the vehicle, which usually increases the risk of serious trauma, including:
- Head injuries
- Loss of limbs
- Getting struck by another vehicle upon ejection
Generally, the risk of death increases when you do not wear your seat belt, whether you are driving or riding as a passenger.
Driving while intoxicated
Drinking or using any kind of drug, prescription or otherwise, while driving can lead to a serious crash. These types of accidents tend to occur more overnight than in the daytime but may occur in the daylight hours during holidays and on weekends. Alcohol contributed to the deaths of more than 25 percent of people in motor vehicle crashes during 2018, a number greater than those killed in motorcycle and pedestrian deaths.
People of all ages and backgrounds die on Texas roadways each day. Increased awareness of one’s surroundings and learning how to drive defensively, as well as reducing distractions inside the vehicle, may reduce the risk of a deadly wreck.
