Talk. Text. Crash.

Distracted driving continues to be a problem in Texas and takes many forms. In 2025, distracted driving was responsible for 86,384 crashes on Texas roads. More than 2,437 people were seriously injured as a result, and 299 died. The number of crashes was highest among young drivers. TxDOT’s annual Talk. Text. Crash. campaign is a crucial call-to-action encouraging drivers to keep their head up and pay attention when behind the wheel.

Any distraction-whether it's texting, eating, grooming, or having a conversation–can be dangerous. Every driver, passenger, and anyone else, regardless of age, can be impacted by distracted driving.

Since Sept. 1, 2017, it has been illegal to read, write, or send a text while driving in Texas. Violators can face a fine of up to $200.

Talk. Text. Crash. campaign

TxDOT’s Talk. Text. Crash. statewide public awareness campaign educates Texans on the dangers and risks of driving distracted while also raising awareness of statewide laws. The campaign addresses and discourages all forms of distracted driving when behind the wheel, with the overall goal of saving lives and reducing crashes.

Campaign activities include paid media, social and earned media, Texas-based social media influencer programming, and community education.

What is distracted driving?

Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from the road while driving. Distractions can include anything from texting, talking, or glancing at a cell phone to, eating and drinking, programming a navigation system, adjusting the radio or temperature, and reaching for something in the back seat.

What if I need to text or call someone immediately?

Pull over. Research shows that regardless of whether you use a voice-to-text program, hands-free device or a handheld one, the distraction will affect your driving. TxDOT offers these tips to prevent distracted driving that can lead to a ticket, or worse, a crash:

• Always give driving your full attention.
• Pull off the road entirely and come to a complete stop before you talk or text.
• Put your phone away, turn it off, or use an app or your phone settings to block texts and calls or send auto-reply texts while you are driving.
• Tell friends, family, and coworkers you won’t respond to calls or texts when you are behind the wheel.
• Remember that all distractions are dangerous, so pay full attention when behind the wheel.