Distracted driving is often associated with cell phone use, but it can include any behavior that may impair a driver’s ability to properly control their vehicle and avoid causing an accident.
Nationwide statistics collected from 2020 by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show that distracted driving played role in more than 3,000 fatalities and more than 400,000 injuries on the road that year.
It’s clear to see why authorities take distracted driving seriously, especially in a dynamic driving environment like New York City. Although cell phones and texting get a lot of attention when it comes to campaigns against distracted driving, plenty of other behaviors can also result in a ticket.
Examples of Distracted Driving Behaviors
Distracted driving behaviors will fall into one of the following categories: visual, auditory, manual, and cognitive. If it takes your eyes off of the road, it’s a visual behavior; if it takes your mind off of your driving, it’s a cognitive behavior, and so on.
A few common distracted driving behavior examples include the following:
- Texting
- Cell phone use of any kind
- Using a navigation system
- Eating
- Adjusting the stereo
- Applying makeup
- Talking with passengers
- Drowsiness
Driving while engaged in any of these behaviors is dangerous and should be avoided. That said, many of us commonly do these things while driving and don’t give it much thought. Unfortunately, that doesn’t negate the possibility of getting a distracted driving ticket.
Penalties for Distracted Driving in New York
A ticket for distracted driving can incur a fine of up to $200 for a first offense, up $250 for a second offense, and up to $450 for a third offense. In addition to these fines, a $93 surcharge may be applied.
You can also expect a significant number of points to be added against your driving record. Distracted driving convictions incur five points for each time a driver is found guilty. As a reminder, getting more than 11 points within an 18-month period puts you at risk of a license suspension.
Contact Stites Law for Legal Assistance
If a police officer tickets you for distracted driving in New York, you can fight it with help from Stites Law. Our attorney works hard to ensure each client receives the personalized attention their case needs to increase their odds of securing a favorable outcome.
With our assistance, you can beat your ticket or get reduced penalties. If you want to learn more about how we can help, contact Stites Law online now!