The New York State Police have announced their participation in a nationwide distracted driving enforcement campaign in recognition of April’s National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The initiative, known as “Put the Phone Away or Pay,” began on Monday, April 6, 2026, and will continue through Monday, April 13, 2026.
During the campaign, State Troopers will conduct targeted enforcement efforts focusing on drivers who use electronic devices while operating a vehicle. Authorities say both marked patrol vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles will be deployed. These specialized vehicles allow Troopers to observe violations from an elevated vantage point while blending into regular traffic, though they are fully equipped with emergency lighting.
According to federal data, distracted driving continues to be a major safety concern. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that more than 3,200 people were killed in distraction-related crashes across the United States in 2024.
State Police highlighted results from last year’s campaign, noting that during the April 2025 enforcement period, Troopers issued a total of 22,867 tickets, including 4,607 specifically for distracted driving violations.
Officials are urging motorists to take simple precautions to avoid distractions behind the wheel. Recommended safety measures include pulling over to a safe location before sending or receiving texts, assigning a passenger as a designated texter, and keeping mobile devices out of reach while driving.
Under New York State law, penalties for distracted driving include fines ranging from $50 to $200 for a first offense, up to $250 for a second offense within 18 months, and up to $450 for subsequent violations. Additionally, probationary and junior drivers face stricter consequences, including a 120-day license suspension for a first offense and a one-year revocation for a second offense within six months.
Authorities emphasize that distracted driving remains a leading cause of preventable crashes and are urging all drivers to remain attentive and make responsible decisions on the road.
I hope this is very heavily enforced, the complete lack of respect for others on the road is alarming.