We discourage all Buffalo drivers from texting while driving not because it is illegal, but because it is dangerous. Distracted driving is a major cause of personal injury accidents. Because the potential for distraction has only increased over the past several years with the popularity of texting, tougher laws went into effect in New York State this month to help curb this problem.
Previously, a driver could not be pulled over for texting while driving and charged with the offense. Instead, a police officer would have to observe some other violation, such as weaving, before being able to legally pull over a texting individual. Under the new law, texting has become a primary offense for which a police officer may pull over and subsequently charge a driver.
The new law also prohibits emailing, internet browsing, taking images, reading and playing games while driving. While the fine for the offense of $150 remains unchanged from the prior law, the driver license penalty has been increased. Violators will receive three points against their license instead of the two points under the prior law.
Of course, drivers have also been banned from using hand held cell phones in New York State for several years because of the increased risk of motor vehicle accidents. They may continue to use hands-free devices while driving.
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