Crackdown on Distracted Driving Begins Today – Continues Through April 14th

Happening today through next Monday, April 14th, motorists can expect to see an increase in law enforcement patrols as officers will be cracking down on distracted driving. The campaign is part of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee’s annual statewide distracted driving enforcement and education campaign.

“All motorists have a responsibility to always keep their focus on driving and nothing else,” said New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and GTSC Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder. “Distracted driving can result in needless tragedies that could have easily been prevented. New York was the first state to prohibit cell phone use while driving, and we will continue to reinforce our message to drivers to always keep their eyes and attention on the road when they are behind the wheel.” 

This enforcement period will also have the New York State Police conducting Operation Hang Up, which is a special enforcement campaign with increased patrols by Troopers and checkpoints on roadways targeting drivers using an electronic device while behind the wheel.

To deter drivers from talking on a cell phone without a hands-free device, texting, or using an electronic device, New York has increased the penalties. The penalties can range from $50 to $450 in fines, five driver violation points, and suspension or revocation of license. 

Last year, over 67,000 tickets were issued with over 6,700 for distracted driving, 1,540 for impaired driving, and over 11,000 for speeding.