PIX11 Reports on Distracted Driving: What You Need to Know
Distracted driving remains one of the most pressing issues on our roads today. According to a recent report by PIX11, law enforcement officials and safety advocates are sounding the alarm about the increasing number of accidents caused by drivers who aren’t paying full attention to the road. PIX 11 also reports on crackdowns by law enforcement to address the issues. If you didn’t know April is Distracted Driving Awareness month. As a New York traffic ticket attorney, I have seen firsthand how a momentary lapse in focus can lead to severe consequences—both legally and personally.
The Growing Problem of Distracted Driving
PIX11’s coverage highlights alarming statistics: thousands of crashes each year are linked to distractions, with cell phone use being one of the top culprits. Despite strict laws against texting while driving, many motorists continue to take risks, believing they can multitask behind the wheel. But the reality is that even a quick glance at a phone can mean the difference between avoiding an accident and causing one.
New York State has some of the toughest distracted driving laws in the country. Under Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) 1225(d) and 1225(c), using a handheld device while driving can result in significant fines, points on your license, and increased insurance premiums. For repeat offenders, the penalties only get worse, potentially leading to license suspensions.
Understanding the Legal Consequences
Many drivers underestimate the legal impact of a distracted driving ticket. A conviction for using a mobile device while driving in New York comes with:
Five points on your license
Fines up to $450 for repeat offenses
Driver Responsibility Assessment Fees if you accumulate six points within 18 months
Higher insurance premiums due to the violation being categorized as a moving offense
For commercial drivers or those with prior violations, these penalties can be devastating. A single distracted driving charge could jeopardize a CDL holder’s ability to work, while others might find themselves dangerously close to a license suspension.
How to Fight a Distracted Driving Ticket
If you’ve been ticketed for distracted driving, you do have options. Many drivers assume they have no choice but to pay the fine, but in reality, fighting the ticket can often lead to reduced charges or even dismissal. As a traffic attorney, I help clients challenge the evidence presented, question the officer’s observations, and negotiate for lesser penalties.
Some potential defenses include:
Proving that the device wasn’t in use (e.g., showing phone records)
Arguing that the device was being used legally (such as on speakerphone without holding it)
Challenging the officer’s line of sight or the circumstances under which they issued the ticket
Final Thoughts: Stay Focused, Stay Safe
The PIX11 report serves as a critical reminder that distracted driving is a serious offense with real consequences. Staying off your phone and keeping your attention on the road isn’t just about avoiding a ticket—it’s about protecting lives.
If you or someone you know has been ticketed for distracted driving, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact Michael E. Beer, Esq. today at 866-88-SPEED for a consultation. Let’s fight to protect your driving record and your future.
