They say everything is bigger in Texas, which unfortunately also includes the rate of auto collisions, distracted and dangerous driving, and fatal car accidents compared to other states nationwide.

In a recent report, Forbes ranked Texas as the top state in the nation for “Worst Drivers.” This is based on an analysis of six metrics that reflect dangerous driving behavior, including: drunk driving, distracted driving, drowsy driving, wrong-way driving, failure to obey traffic signs and signals, and drivers who looked at a phone. Dallas, Texas, also recently ranked eighth in the top 10 cities with the most car accident fatalities and tenth in the top 10 cities with the highest relative likelihood of a collision.

“The statistics for dangerous and distracted driving in Texas are staggering and have only increased in severity since Texans spend more time on the roads post-COVID-19 pandemic,” said Rich Johnson, director of communications and public affairs, Insurance Council of Texas (ICT). “Thanks to the support of AAA Texas, we’re able to empower drivers with strategies to change negative driving behaviors and encourage responsibility for safe driving across the state.”

The Survive the Drive auto safety awareness campaign aims to educate the public about the importance of driver safety and the consequences of distracted driving through advice and data from safety and insurance experts at ICT and AAA Texas. Texans can learn more about the campaign online at @insurancecounciloftexas, insurancecouncil.org, and @AAAtexas, AAA Texas Newsroom.

“Recent AAA Foundation surveys show that more than half of drivers (51%) admit they text and/or email on their phone while alone in the vehicle,” said Daniel Armbruster, AAA Texas spokesperson. “Simple steps, like leaving your phone on “Do Not Disturb” while driving, can be taken to increase safety for oneself and others on the road–and even end up saving a life.”

Tips for Texans to Survive the Drive

Put your phone out of sight and stay focused on the road.

Program your GPS before you start driving.

Don’t rely on backup cameras alone. Go slow and watch for pedestrians and other vehicles.

Slow down at yellow lights–don’t speed up.

Obey the speed limit–it's there for a reason.

Don’t drive buzzed, drugged, or drowsy. Call a friend or rideshare. Your life depends on it.