Of Interest: Feb. 14, 2012

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February 14, 2012

Anonymous Press-Republican The Press Republican Tue Feb 14, 2012, 02:28 AM EST

ALBANY —

Strict cellphone law results in many tickets

A strict new law designed to prevent distracted driving has resulted in 118,757 tickets since July 2011 for using an electronic handheld device while driving.

The legislation introduced by Gov. Andrew Cuomo last July makes using an electronic handheld device while driving a primary traffic offense, giving law enforcement the power to stop drivers solely for engaging in this activity. In addition, the governor increased the penalty for using a cellular phone without a hands-free device or a handheld device while driving from two to three points on one's license through changes in state regulations.

From July 12, 2011, to Feb. 7, 2012, New York state has issued 7,495 tickets for texting-while-driving and 111,262 for using a handheld electronic device while driving.

"Texting while driving is illegal and endangers the lives of New Yorkers across the state," Governor Cuomo said. "These tickets should send a resounding message to all drivers: keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel."

"With more than 5,500 deaths and more than 440,000 injuries nationwide each year, we know that we have a long way to go in not only educating the motoring public but in changing their driving behaviors," said Barbara Fiala, commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Between Jan. 1, 2011, and July 11, 2011, New York issued 2,691 tickets for texting-while-driving. Since July 12, 2011, New York issued 7,495 tickets for texting-while-driving offenses.