Drivers who think they’re getting away with texting or using a hand-held device in New York State might want to think again this week.
Operation Hang Up is back.
This is the second installment of the program. Police ticketed more than 800 distracted drivers last Thanksgiving during the first Operation Hang Up campaign.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a new law last summer that makes using a handheld electronic device while driving a primary traffic offense, giving law enforcement the power to stop drivers caught in the act.
The penalty for using a handheld device while driving has been increased from two to three points.
“Using a cell phone while driving is illegal and puts other motorists in danger,” Cuomo said.”This second campaign will enable State Police to step up enforcement measures to send a clear message to drivers: keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.”
Roughly 3,000 deaths last year were attributed to distracted driving.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration calls it a dangerous epidemic on America’s roadways.
Operation Hang Up will last through Sunday.
texting while driving even not in NY, i tell them “please let me text for you. better be safe than sorry” (we already have a car with installed phone speaker
What about the fact that people are mugging cell phones in broad daylight? oh,…but that cell phone issue doesn’t make the state money.
It’s never ok to text and drive.
The Governor is wrong. It’s not illegal to use a cell phone while driving. It’s only unlawful to hold it in your hand(s) while driving.
whats mva?
trust me this is not a good idea txt while driving, i have a MVA because of that!