Politics & Government
[POLL] Westchester County Will Crack Down on Texting Behind the Wheel
Earlier today, a countywide campaign was launched to educate drivers about the dangers of text and driving and enforce laws which prohibit the practice.
Westchester County District Attorney Janet Difiore and Joseph Burton, president of the Westchester County Chiefs of Police Association held a press conference Monday morning to announce a renewed effort to reduce texting and driving.
Enacted this summer, the New York state law banning texting will driving has already snagged more than one hundred violators. According to a report by Reuters, 427 people were cited for texting while driving during the month of August.
The law makes texting and use of a handhelf device a primary offense, which means law enforcement can pull a driver over even if they are abiding other traffic laws. Fines for violations include a fine of up to $150 and a three-point penalty.
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Closer to home, the to increase awareness about distracted driving and involved area high school students in the effort. Studies show young drivers especially are more prone to accidents when using handheld devices on the road.
Has the new law changed your habits? Do you think it will result in safer roads?
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