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Sep 11, 2026
Texas’ newest distracted driving laws prohibit drivers from holding a cellphone while driving in a school zone or active construction zone, with phone use required to be completely hands-free. Under Senate Bill 43, which took effect October 1, violators can receive a $60 fine and three points on their driver’s license record. The law adds to existing anti-texting regulations and aims to reduce preventable distracted driving. Despite these rules, distracted driving remains a risk, and accidents caused by distracted drivers can result in injuries requiring compensation.
As distracted driving problems continue to grow, more states are beginning to realize that distracted driving is everyone’s responsibility. Many states, such as Texas, have had anti-texting laws in place for a few years now. However, these laws have done little to change the problem we are facing. This realization is causing many states to crack down on the war against distracted driving, meaning new laws are being rolled out.
Key Takeaways
- Senate Bill 43 targets distracted driving: Texas introduced new regulations aimed at preventing drivers from using cellphones while driving unless they are completely hands-free.
- Cellphone use is restricted in certain zones: Drivers can be ticketed for holding a cellphone while driving in a school zone or active construction zone.
- Violations carry harsher penalties: The law provides for a $60 fine and three points on the driver’s license record.
- Distracted driving is preventable: The blog emphasizes that driving distracted is an individual choice and that everyone shares responsibility for preventing it.
- Distracted driving can cause serious injuries: Despite laws intended to reduce dangerous phone use, crashes can still occur, leaving injured victims facing uncertainty about their next steps.
Senate Bill 43
Texas is attempting to lead the charge by implementing a new law to help prevent distracted driving. The new regulations will be in addition to the laws already in place. Senate Bill 43 is aimed to prevent drivers from ever using their phones behind the wheel unless they are doing so completely hands-free.
The bill went into effect October 1st. Law enforcement officers can now give a ticket to anyone holding a cellphone while driving in a school zone or active construction zone.
You may be thinking, “The last anti-cellphone law wasn’t very successful; this seems to be the same situation.” While this is a valid concern, the new bill comes with much harsher repercussions:
- A $60 fine
- THREE points on your driver’s license record
Lawmakers believe that with harsher consequences, they will be able to prevent drivers from taking part in these distracting activities behind the wheel.
What Can Be Done
Similar to DUI accidents, no matter what laws are in place to prevent dangerous driving impairments, there will always be individuals who choose to break the law. The state of Texas knows the dangers of driving distracted; however, it may be quite some time until we see the number of distracted drivers decrease.
As we stated earlier, distracted driving is everyone’s responsibility. What this means is that driving distracted is a choice each individual makes, which also means that distracted driving is entirely preventable.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in an accident involving a distracted driver, it’s understandable to feel frustrated and unsure of what steps to take next.
For countless years, our team of trusted Texas auto accident attorneys has been helping injured victims recover the compensation they deserve. We work around the clock to help our clients pursue the maximum possible compensation for their case, to allow them the proper recovery they deserve.
Call us today (512)271-5112 to schedule your free consultation, and learn more about how we can help you recover.
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