Texas is one of the largest states in the U.S., with expansive highways, bustling city streets, and long rural roads. With such diverse driving environments, it's no surprise that Texas sees a significant number of traffic accidents each year. While some accidents are caused by external factors like weather, a substantial portion of them are due to unsafe driving habits.
At Get Drivers Ed, we are committed to helping drivers recognize and eliminate these dangerous behaviors. In this blog, we’ll explore the top five driving habits that cause accidents in Texas and offer tips on how to drive safely, protecting both yourself and others on the road.
1. Speeding: The Need for Speed Is Dangerous
Exceeding the Speed Limit
Speeding is one of the most common causes of accidents, not just in Texas but across the country. Many drivers exceed the speed limit because they’re in a hurry, feel confident in their abilities, or simply ignore the law. However, speeding reduces your ability to react to sudden changes on the road, such as obstacles, other drivers, or pedestrians.
In Texas, wide open highways like those around Houston or Dallas might tempt drivers to push the limits, but this can be a fatal mistake. When you’re driving too fast, you have less control over your vehicle, making it harder to stop in time to avoid an accident.
At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of following speed limits and adjusting your speed based on road conditions. Remember, the faster you drive, the less time you have to react—and that could be the difference between avoiding an accident or causing one.
2. Distracted Driving: The Silent Killer
Phones, Food, and Friends Can Wait
Distracted driving is another major contributor to accidents in Texas. With the rise of smartphones, many drivers are guilty of texting while driving or checking their GPS, taking their eyes off the road for just a few seconds. However, even a momentary distraction can have deadly consequences. At 60 miles per hour, taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds means you’ll travel the length of a football field without looking.
It’s not just phones that distract drivers. Eating, fiddling with the radio, or even having a conversation with passengers can take your attention away from the road. Distracted driving is particularly dangerous in Texas cities like Austin or San Antonio, where traffic can be unpredictable, and there are many pedestrians.
At Get Drivers Ed, we teach drivers that staying focused on the road is one of the best ways to prevent accidents. Avoid distractions and keep both hands on the wheel at all times.
3. Tailgating: Too Close for Comfort
Not Keeping a Safe Following Distance
Many accidents happen because drivers follow too closely behind other vehicles, a behavior known as tailgating. When you tailgate, you drastically reduce the time and space you have to react if the car in front of you stops suddenly. Tailgating is especially dangerous in heavy traffic or bad weather, where stopping distances are increased.
In cities like Dallas and Houston, traffic can be intense, and the temptation to drive closely behind other cars is strong, especially during rush hour. However, tailgating leads to rear-end collisions, which can result in serious injuries and extensive damage.
At Get Drivers Ed, we advise our students to always maintain a safe following distance. The general rule is to keep a three-second gap between your car and the one in front of you. This gives you enough time to stop or react in case of an emergency.
4. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs
Intersections Are Not to Be Ignored
Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for drivers, and running red lights or stop signs is a frequent cause of accidents in Texas. Whether it’s impatience, distraction, or simply trying to beat the light, drivers who run red lights put themselves and others at serious risk.
T-bone collisions, where one car hits the side of another, are particularly common in these situations and can result in severe injuries or fatalities. In urban areas like Dallas or Austin, where intersections are heavily trafficked, failing to stop at red lights or stop signs can have devastating consequences.
At Get Drivers Ed, we stress the importance of obeying traffic signals and signs. Always come to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs, and never try to beat a yellow light if there’s not enough time to make it through the intersection safely.
5. Driving Under the Influence: A Major Cause of Fatal Accidents
Alcohol and Drugs Impair Judgment
Drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of fatal accidents in Texas. Despite strict laws and public awareness campaigns, far too many drivers get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs. Driving under the influence slows your reaction time, impairs your judgment, and reduces your ability to make quick decisions.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, thousands of alcohol-related crashes occur in Texas each year, many of which result in fatalities. Rural areas, where law enforcement may be less prevalent, often see higher rates of impaired driving.
At Get Drivers Ed, we educate drivers on the dangers of impaired driving. If you’ve been drinking, arrange for a sober ride home or use a rideshare service. It’s not worth risking your life or the lives of others by driving under the influence.
Conclusion: Drive Safely with Get Drivers Ed
While there are many factors that contribute to accidents on Texas roads, most are preventable. By avoiding dangerous driving habits like speeding, distracted driving, tailgating, and running red lights, you can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in an accident. And of course, never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
At Get Drivers Ed, our goal is to provide drivers with the skills and knowledge they need to stay safe on the road. Whether you’re a new driver or looking to improve your driving habits, we offer comprehensive courses designed to help you become a more confident and responsible driver.
Ready to take control of your driving habits? Sign up for our courses today and learn how to drive safely in Texas, reducing your risk of accidents and keeping the roads safer for everyone!
