New York's Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently signed a new law that strengthens the penalties for drivers who are cited for using handheld electronic devices while the vehicle is in motion. Accident Prevention Courses are required to present information about this new situation, and updated classroom materials will be distributed to instructors shortly.
Under the new law, the use of handheld electronic devices joins handheld cell phone use as a primary enforcement violation, meaning that a law enforcement officer may stop a driver and issue a citation for that violation alone. The monetary penalty for a violation of this law continues to be a fine of up to $150. And, as before, exemptions cover emergency services personnel who are engaged in their duties, as well as drivers who are engaged in communication about an emergency situation. This change is effective immediately.
Governor Cuomo also announced that he will increase the penalty for using a cellular phone without a hands-free device while driving, or for using a handheld electronic device while driving, from two to three points through changes in state regulations. Note that the new point assessment will go into effect "this Fall," according to representatives from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles; a subsequent blog post will inform you of the exact date when it has been determined. For now, you might simply point out to students that this change is "coming soon to a law enforcement stop near them."
