Distracted Driving Causes Too Many Deadly Crashes in New York

Drivers in the Bronx, NY reminded to stay focused and stay safe to avoid causing car accidents

Distracted driving continues to pose a serious threat in New York and is a frequent factor in car accidents. To reduce the number of such incidents caused by texting drivers and other distracted motorists, the state has taken various steps over the years.

According to the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, distracted driving is the primary cause of motor vehicle crashes in New York State. In response to this alarming trend, efforts are underway to eliminate this dangerous driving behavior.

At Giampa Law, we fully support measures to combat distracted driving. For far too long, drivers who fail to keep their attention on the road have caused significant damage, frequently leading to severe injuries and even fatalities.

New York distracted driving statistics

The facts are clear: distracted driving is a significant cause of serious accidents in New York. According to the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, 1 out of every 5 collisions in the state can be attributed to inattentive drivers.

Furthermore, a recent study by Forbes reveals that New York ranks 11th highest in the country for car accident fatality rates caused by distracted driving. Specifically, an estimated 11.94 percent of all car accident fatalities in the state are attributed to distracted driving, resulting in an alarming 115 deaths annually - the seventh-highest total in the country.

What is the law for cell phone use in NYS?

New York boasts some of the country's most stringent distracted driving laws, aimed at promoting safer driving habits and reducing the number of accidents caused by distracted drivers. For example, in 2001, New York became the first state to ban handheld cell phones while driving; in 2009, the state passed a law banning texting while driving in all forms. Specifically, drivers are prohibited from reading, writing, or sending text messages while operating a vehicle.

Those who violate New York's distracted driving laws face severe penalties. For the first offense, drivers may be fined between $50 to $200, per the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. The fine for a second offense within 18 months increases from $50 to $250; for a third offense in 18 months, the fine may be up to $450.

In addition, a surcharge of up to $93 may be added to each fine. Furthermore, according to the New York State DMV, those who violate the state's distracted driving laws could have 5 driver violation points added to their driver's license.

What else has New York done to prevent distracted driving?

New York has taken significant steps to address the issue of distracted driving, in addition to having some of the strictest laws on the books. In 2017, the state launched Operation Hang Up, a law enforcement program aimed at curbing distracted driving through increased enforcement efforts. Police and state troopers issue tickets for distracted driving and conduct special patrols and checkpoints. As a result of this initiative, more than 16,000 traffic tickets have been issued, according to the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee.

Furthermore, New York actively participates in Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a nationwide campaign that takes place every April. Throughout the month, the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee works to educate drivers about the dangers of distracted driving through various mediums, including press events, social media posts, and public service announcements.

Hit by a distracted driver? Contact a Bronx, NY car accident lawyer today

If you're involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver in New York, you may think you don't need a lawyer to recover compensation for your losses. However, the truth is that many injury claims and lawsuits can quickly become complicated legal cases. The other driver may deny any wrongdoing or even try to shift the blame to you.

At Giampa Law, our Bronx car accident attorneys can help you navigate this complex legal terrain. We have an in-depth understanding of the laws that apply to distracted driving accidents in New York, and we know how the legal system works in the state.

In a crisis, you need a law firm you can trust to get the results you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our law firm to see how we can help you. We handle injury claims throughout New York on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no fees unless we win your case.