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What is the law on cell phone use while you operate a vehicle in NYS?

New York State has a law that does not allow you to use a hand-held mobile telephone while you drive. If you use a hand-held mobile telephone while you drive, except to call 911 or to contact medical, fire or police personnel about an emergency, you can receive a traffic ticket and pay a maximum fine of $100 and mandatory surcharges and fees of up to $85. For offenses committed between October 5, 2011 and May 31, 2013, this violation carries three driver violation points. For offenses committed on or after June 1, 2013, this violation carries five driver violation points.

For complete information on this traffic safety issue and a copy of the law, see the Distracted Driving page at the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee web site.

What is the law on texting while you operate a vehicle in NYS?

New York State law prohibits all drivers from using portable electronic devices, such as cell phones and smart phones, to send text messages or emails while driving. The penalty for a violation of this law is a fine of up to $150 plus mandatory surcharges and fees of up to $85. For offenses committed between October 5, 2011 and May 31, 2013, this violation carries three driver violation points. For offenses committed on or after June 1, 2013, this violation carries five driver violation points.

Using a handheld electronic device is now a primary offense, an officer may stop you if you are observed using a handheld device while driving.

For complete information on this traffic safety issue and a copy of the law, see the Distracted Driving page at the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee web site.