New York State Police are issuing a warning to distracted drivers. They just launched a campaign to crackdown on drivers who are focused on things other than the road. Operation Hang Up is a part of a national effort to get drivers focused during April's National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. New Yorkers can expect to see increased police patrols and checkpoints, which will target drivers using cell phones and other electronic devices while driving. The enforcement period kicked off yesterday, April 4, and will run through Monday, April 11, 2022.

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NYS Troopers will be using marked and unmarked vehicles to target distracted drivers. The unmarked police cars, called Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement vehicles, blend in with ordinary traffic until they activate their emergency lights.

New York State Police Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen said,

Distracted Driving continues to be a leading factor in motor vehicle crashes. Yet, the deaths and injuries caused by distracted driving are 100 percent preventable. Drivers must be aware of their surroundings and consciously reduce distractions and behaviors that take their attention from the road. State Police will continue to work toward making New York’s roads safer and we will hold distracted drivers accountable.

Distracted drivers have caused fatal accidents in New York and across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 3,142 died in crashes with distracted drivers in 2020.

Here Are The Fees For Distracted Driving In New York:

1. The fine for a first offense can range from $50 to $200

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2. The fine can go up to $250 if a driver has a second offense in 18 months

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3. The maximum fine increases by $200 to $450 for a third offense in 18 months

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4. Probationary and junior drivers could have their license suspended for up to 120-day for a first offense

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5. A second offense in six months could result in a one-year revocation of permit or license for probationary and junior drivers

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