Effective June 1, 2013 New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo directed the Department of Motor Vehicles to implement tougher penalties for texting-while-driving and using cell phones while in motion. The Department of Motor Vehicles will increase the number of points earned against an individual’s driving record from the current three to five points upon conviction for texting-while-driving and cell-phone related infractions. Governor Cuomo has also directed the New York State Police and encouraged local police to increase enforcement of the texting-while-driving ban on roads across the State.

Text messaging and talking on the cell phone while driving are the ultimate distractions. Too many drivers are taking their focus off the road and the results have proven lethal. The split second you take to look at a screen can be the difference between life and death.

While driving to your favorite summer destinations, please make sure to keep your eyes on the road and off your cell phone.  The missed call or text will be there when you park. We want to make sure you, your passengers and your fellow motorists are alive to receive it!