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The number of tickets issued for texting while driving increased throughout Long Island during the past year. Suffolk County saw a 92 percent increase with 2,289 tickets issued, while Nassau saw a 62 percent increase with 1,424 tickets. Police have cracked down on texting while driving as it has become a leading hazard on roads, and have even compared its level of danger to that of driving while intoxicated.
Gone are the days when calling someone on the phone was a frequent practice. Texting has become the preferred form of communication throughout America, proven by the 2 trillion text messages sent throughout the country annually.
When the first anti-texting law was signed by the state, it prohibited police from ticketing drivers for texting as a primary offense. Rather, they would first have to pull the offender over for a different violation. As you could imagine, the total number of tickets allocated for texting while driving was very low. In 2011, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a law upgrading texting while driving to a primary offense.
In New York, a first time texting while driving offense results in a fine ranging from $50-$150. For a second offense within 18 months of the first, the maximum fine is $200. If it should occur more than twice within an 18 month time period, the highest fine is $400. With every offense comes 5 points on the driver's license. If a driver racks up 11 points, their license can be revoked or suspended.
For those impatient texters who can't seem to wait to respond, Gov. Cuomo has created "texting zones" throughout the state, two of which can be found on the Long Island Expressway. Sufficient efforts have been made to help prevent the occurrence of future deaths and injuries as a result of distracted driving.
To learn more about how cops will be cracking down on texting while driving, click here.
The Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr. are experienced in comprehensive legal cases. Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island's premier law firm. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to a distracted driver, contact us. Don't forget to Like us on Facebook and FOLLOW us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.
