New York Drivers Will Get Points for Talking on Cell Phones

New York drivers who are caught talking on their cell phones without a headset will gain two points on their driving records — which means higher insurance costs.

Previously, no points were assigned for talking on a cell phone although two points are assigned for texting while driving violations.

“By strengthening the current law, our hope is that motorists will become even more aware of the potential consequences of their actions if they use a cell phone while driving,” said J. David Sampson, Department of Motor Vehicles executive deputy commissioner.

Ten years ago, New York became the first in the nation to adopt a statewide ban on handheld cell phone use while driving. In 2009, a law banning the use of portable electronic devices for texting while driving took effect, a violation that currently has two points attached to it along with a $150 fine.

In New York, driver distraction is a contributing factor in at least one out of five crashes. Each year 300,000 tickets are issued statewide for cell phone violations.