OPERATION HANG UP: Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign to run across New York April 7 – 14

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month and New York State is participating with a special enforcement crackdown this week ahead.

From April 7 – 14, the State Police will partner with local law enforcement to execute “Operation Hang Up,” with aims of catching drivers using their mobile devices while behind the wheel (without a hands-free device).

During last-year’s campaign, over 67,000 tickets were issued statewide, including nearly 6,800 for distracted driving.

Fines can range anywhere from $50 to $450 for drivers caught using some sort of mobile device (without a hands-free device) while behind the wheel.

In addition, those found guilty of distracted driving in New York face points on their license, along with possible suspension or revocation.

According to data from New York State Government, distracted driving was a contributing factor in nearly 50,000 crashes last-year, 105 of which resulted in fatalities.

To help prevent tragedies, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends the following steps for drivers:

• If you have to text, pull over to a safe location and park your car first.
• Distracted driving isn’t just texting. Scrolling through social media or messaging while driving is distracted driving, too.
• If you have passengers, appoint a “designated texter” to handle all your texting.
• Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone away so you won't be tempted to respond.
• Speak up if you see someone texting and driving and ask them to put their phone away.

NYSP image.