New York Laws for Distracted Driving
Distracted driving accidents have increased from 35,546 in 2006 to 49,833 in 2010, despite news stories on the dangers of texting and driving. New York State responded with the enforcement of stricter distracted driving laws against hand-held cell phone use as early as 2001. With the rise of deaths in 2010, New York changed the charges for cell phone use while driving to a primary offense in 2011.
Most distracted drivers never intend to cause a car accident, but this happens quite often, despite new distracted driving laws. If you are suffering from injuries after a car accident caused by a distracted driver, then consider talking to a Central New York Automobile Accidents Attorney.
Distracted Driving Laws and Exceptions
New distracted driving laws not only restrict the use of a cell phone while driving, but any electronic device. Sending text or checking an email on any electronic device is considered an offense. This also includes playing games, looking at images, or anything in between.
However, there are some exceptions to the laws. One cause of distracted driving accidents is not having your hands properly placed on your steering wheel. This is why a voice-activated phone that is securely attached to your dashboard is not considered a violation. This means a GPS or other electronic device can be used as long as they are attached to your car.
Calling 911 or speaking with emergency services while driving is permitted under the law because most emergencies are immediate. Following the same logic, drivers of registered emergency vehicles can also use an electronic device while driving.
Legal Consequences of Distracted Driving
A primary offense allows a police officer to pull you over if they see you using an electronic device while driving. After you are pulled over, you may be given a fine of $50-$200, but if you are caught again, you may be required to pay $50-$250. The highest fine you can be charged with is $450 for repeat offenses.
Your driver’s license could be suspended for up to 120 days if you break distracted driving laws while using a probationary, Class DJ, Class MJ, or learner’s license. Multiple violations could lead to a year of license suspension. This means you will have to rely on others to drive you places like school or work for a whole year.
Personal Injury Lawyer in New York
You should not have to deal with expensive medical bills or lost wages because someone else decided to break distracted driving laws. Even a simple rear-end car accident can cause life-altering injuries if the impact is strong enough. Try contacting a New York Personal Injury Lawyer who can help you collect evidence and obtain compensation for your injuries.
At Gattuso & Ciotoli, we are experienced lawyers with over 50 years of helping clients who have survived all kinds of different car accidents. We offer legal services in Syracuse, Central New York, Syracuse, Watertown, Binghamton, Syracuse, North Syracuse, Camillus, Liverpool, Cortland, and Auburn. Call (315) 314-8000 today if you have any questions concerning your situation. We provide free consultation because our goal is to defend your rights.