A new warning for drivers across the Houston area: keep your eyes on the road.
The message comes as Distracted Driving Awareness Month is underway, and new data is raising serious concerns about driver behavior in Texas.
According to the safety app Life360, about 70% of trips in Houston involve drivers using their phones, based on data from more than 100 million users worldwide.
The findings place Texas among the most distracted states in the country, with risky habits happening at an alarming rate.
Data shows Friday is the most dangerous day to drive, with 68% of trips involving phone use.
The most dangerous times are during the morning and afternoon rush.
Teens are the most distracted, with 73% of trips involving phone activity, while grandparents are considered the safest drivers.
Experts say the numbers highlight a growing and dangerous trend.
“Having an honest conversation as a family about how problematic this is and making sure people understand how much distracted driving leads to crashes and, unfortunately, fatalities. It’s a real problem,” said Mike Zeman with Life360.
The Texas Department of Transportation urges drivers to take simple steps to avoid distractions, including keeping both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road, putting phones out of reach or using settings to block notifications, and pulling over in a safe place if a call or message is necessary.
With more drivers relying on smartphones for navigation, music and communication, officials say staying focused behind the wheel is critical as distracted driving continues to rise.