Driving In Texas
Henry Barnes, a legendary traffic engineer who served many cities over many years, made this comment in his autobiography, "The Man with the Red and Green Eyes," "traffic was as much an emotional problem as it was a physical and mechanical one." This course on driving safety tackles the emotional problems - and ignorance of traffic laws - as we try to help you become a safer, better, more informed driver.
As we all know, Texas roadways are getting busier and more congested. Traffic safety is the responsibility of all drivers. Every time we get on the road in a vehicle, we're not only taking our own lives in our hands, but the lives of others around us as well. We use motor vehicles more than any other form of transportation in the U.S. Motor vehicles have given us an exceptional degree of mobility, but with this come risks.
The objective of this lesson is to help you understand the traffic safety problem and give you a sense of responsibility for its solution.
The Texas Department of Public Safety has identified the five leading causes of motor vehicle collisions as:
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Driving at unsafe speeds (under or over the speed limit)
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Failure to yield the right-of-way
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Driving under the influence of alcohol
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Disregarding stop and go signals
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Following too closely
Tips For Driving in Texas Traffic
Driving in Texas can be an intimidating experience, especially for newcomers to the state. From the roads to the traffic laws, there is a lot to learn. Fortunately, with the right tips, you can make the experience of driving in Texas a safe and enjoyable one. Here are some tips to help make driving in Texas a breeze.
1. Familiarize Yourself with Texas Traffic Laws
The first step to driving in Texas is to become familiar with the state’s traffic laws. Texas has some specific rules that are important to know, such as the maximum speed limits and the use of turn signals. Additionally, some Texas counties have strict laws regarding cell phone use while driving, so be sure to check the rules before hitting the road.
2. Give Yourself Plenty of Time
Texas roads are often busy, especially in cities like Houston and Dallas. To avoid stressing yourself out, give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to go. This way, if there is unexpected traffic or you get lost, you’ll still have plenty of time to reach your destination.
3. Watch Out for Wildlife
Texas is home to a wide variety of wildlife, from armadillos to deer. When driving in Texas, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and watch out for animals crossing the road. If you do happen to see an animal on the road, slow down and be prepared to stop if necessary.
4. Be Courteous to Other Drivers
Texas drivers can be polite, but they also expect other drivers to be courteous to them. Be sure to use your turn signals and allow other drivers to merge into your lane when necessary. Additionally, when at a stoplight, always remember to let the car in front of you go first.
5. Follow the Speed Limit
Texas speed limits vary depending on the type of road you’re driving on. It’s important to pay attention to the posted speed limits and follow them closely. Texas is known for its strict enforcement of speeding laws, so be sure to abide by the speed limits to avoid getting a ticket.
6. Know Where You’re Going
It’s easy to get lost in Texas, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Before starting your trip, take some time to map out your route so you know exactly where you’re going. Additionally, if you’re using a GPS device, be sure to double-check the directions before heading out.
7. Be Prepared for Inclement Weather
Texas weather can be unpredictable, and you never know when you might encounter severe weather. Be sure to check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for rain, wind, or even hail. Additionally, always make sure your car is equipped with emergency supplies in case of an unexpected breakdown.
With these tips, you can make driving in Texas a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember to familiarize yourself with Texas traffic laws, give yourself plenty of time, watch out for wildlife, be courteous to other drivers, follow the speed limit, know where you’re going, and be prepared for inclement weather. With these tips, you can be sure that you’ll have a successful and stress-free experience driving in Texas.
