NHTSA, law enforcement remind drivers: Put the phone away or pay

Submitted by the City of Niagara Falls Office of the Mayor

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is launching a national high-visibility enforcement effort, April 10-14, to deter distracted driving. Law enforcement officers nationwide will work together to enforce texting and distracted-driving laws and remind drivers: Put the phone away or pay. This effort comes during April, which is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

According to NHTSA, in 2022, there were 3,308 people killed, and an estimated additional 289,310 people injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers. However, due to data collection limitations, we know that these are underestimations.

“Distracted driving is a leading cause of vehicle crashes on our nation’s roads, and most of this distraction can be attributed to cell phone use,” said Superintendent of Police Nicholas Ligammari. “People know using their phone while driving is dangerous and often illegal, but they do it anyway, and put themselves and others at risk. Drivers will see increased law enforcement efforts, as officers will be stopping and ticketing anyone who is caught texting and driving. If you text and drive, you will pay.”

Violating New York’s distracted-driving laws can be costly. In New York, distracted driving violations like texting or using a cell phone while driving can result in fines ranging from $50 to $450, 5 points on your license, and potential license suspension or revocation. Drivers under 21 face harsher penalties, including license suspension or revocation.

NHTSA urges drivers to put their phones away when behind the wheel. If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe drive:

√ If you are expecting a text message or need to send one that can’t wait, pull over and park your car in a safe location before using your device.

√ Ask your passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.

√ Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.

√ Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.

Cell phone use while driving is dangerous and illegal. Break the cycle. Remember: Put the phone away or pay. For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving.