New York Officials Hopeful that Stiffer Penalties Reduce Distracted Driving Accidents

August 13, 2013

In recent years, texting and driving has quickly become a danger along state highways. Data indicates that from 2005 to 2011, there was a 143 percent increase in the number of Distracted Driving Accidents in New York.

These increases have come despite numerous efforts by state lawmakers and law enforcement officials to create awareness of the problem with laws punishing the behavior.

Several years ago, the state created a law that prohibited motorists from using a handheld mobile device for any reason while driving. According to an article Syracuse.com, the fines for a distracted driving offense just went up this past month. Now, a driver caught texting and driving for the first time will face a fine of up to $150. Those caught engaging in the behavior for a second time within 18 months of the first offense will face another fine of up to $200. Every offense thereafter could result in a fine of as much as $400.

Drivers in New York can also expect to see a heavier police presence, as law enforcement officials have vowed to step up their efforts to catch distracted drivers.

The Personal Injury Lawyers with William Mattar Law Offices applaud the efforts made to eradicate distracted driving from the roads. The law firm asks that motorists refrain from using phones while driving.