What are the fines for using electronic devices while driving?
Modified from Aug 26, 2013, Did You Know???
Dave Werner, Franklin County Traffic Safety Board
Using a handheld device, including the use of mobile telephones (1225 C) and portable electronic devices (1225 D) while driving in New York State is prohibited by the Vehicle and Traffic Law sections 1225 C and D. Points for using electronic devices while driving has been increased to five, putting violations for hand-held cell phone use and texting while driving in a similar category with reckless driving and passing a stopped school bus. Additionally, since July there are new minimum fines and increased maximum fines and surcharges as follows:
- For a first offense, the minimum fine is $50 and the maximum is $200
- For a second offense within 18 months, the minimum fine is $50 and the maximum fine is $250
- For a third or more offense within 18 months, the minimum fine is $50 and the maximum fine is $450
- An additional surcharge for these violation should be anticipated and are changed over time.
Suspensions and revocations for drivers with probationary licenses, Class DJ or Class MJ driver licenses, or learner permits:
- First conviction will result in the mandatory suspension of the driver’s license or permit for 120 days.
- Second such conviction within six months will result in:
- A mandatory revocation of at least one year of a probationary license, or
- A mandatory revocation of at least one year for a Class DJ or MJ driver's license or permit.
- As per V&T Law 510, Suspension, revocation and reissuance of licenses and registrations, Section 6, Paragraph n: “no new license shall be issued for at least one year, nor thereafter except in the discretion of the commissioner”, meaning getting your license back is not guaranteed.
Resources
Franklin County Traffic Safety Board: "Did You Know" articles