What are the fines for using electronic devices while driving?
Modified from Aug 26, 2013 Did You Know???
Dave Werner, Franklin County Traffic Safety Board
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Using a hand held device while driving in New York State is prohibited by the Vehicle and Traffic Law sections 1225 C and D. Effective June 1, 2013, points for using electronic devices while driving have been increased to five, putting violations for hand-held cell phone use and texting while driving in a similar category with reckless driving and passing a stopped school bus. Additionally, since July there are new minimum fines and increased maximum fines and surcharges as follows:
- For a first offense, the minimum fine is $50 and the maximum is $150.
- For a second offense within 18 months, the maximum fine is $200.
- For a third or more offenses within 18 months, the maximum fine is $400.
- The surcharge for these violations has been raised to a maximum of $93.
New suspensions and revocations for Probationary and Junior drivers have also changed effective July 1, 2013. For violations after this date, the following changes affect drivers with probationary licenses, Class DJ or Class MJ driver licenses or learner permits:
- Conviction will result in suspension of the driver license or permit for 60 days.
- A second such conviction within six months will result in:
- A revocation of at least six months of a probationary license, or
- A revocation of at least 60 days for a Class DJ or MJ driver license or permit.
Resources
Franklin County Traffic Safety Board: "Did You Know" articles
