New York State Police reveals latest results from ‘Operation Hang Up’ enforcement crackdown

ALBANY, NY- The New York State Police issued over 21,000 tickets during this year’s 'Operation Hang Up' traffic enforcement period.

The special traffic detail began on April 1 and wrapped up on April 8. Law enforcement specifically targeted drivers using electronic devices while behind the wheel.

Locally in our Troop D Region, State Police ticketed nearly 500 drivers during the campaign period for using their cellular phones.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nationwide in 2022, there 3,308 people killed in crashes caused by distracted driving.

During last-year's 'Operation Hang Up' campaign, State Police issued more than 23,000 total tickets, including 4,246 tickets for distracted driving.

The tickets written were a combination of talking on a cell phone without a hands-free device, texting, or using an electronic device while driving.

Current New York State law includes the following penalties for distracted drivers:

• For a first offense, the minimum fine is $50 and the maximum is $200.
• A second offense in 18-months increases the maximum fine to $250.
• A third offense in 18-months results in a maximum fine of $450.
• Probationary and junior drivers face a 120-day suspension of their license for a first offense, and one-year revocation of their permit or license if a second offense is committed within six months.

NYSP image.