Currently, using your cell phone at a red light is legal, but discouraged by law enforcement. This may soon change. A new bill has been introduced, banning the use of cell phones while stopped at red lights in New Jersey. Read on to learn more about the potential new bill and New Jersey’s cell phone violations.
What to Know About Distracted Driving:
Checking a text, changing a song, or using your GPS while driving may seem like a harmless activity. In reality, it is incredibly dangerous. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), driving a vehicle while texting is six times more dangerous than intoxicated driving. Additionally, distracted driving has been the leading cause of fatal crashes in New Jersey since 2011. As a result, New Jersey lawmakers are cracking down.
What is Considered a Cell Phone Violation in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the following are considered to be cell phone violations:
- Talking on a handheld mobile phone
- Writing, sending, reading or receiving any data over the phone. This may include text messages, emails, or the use of social media
- Searching through the internet
- Watching or taking any pictures or videos
- Playing games
Checking your phone at a red light may soon be added to this list.
What are the Penalties for a Cell Phone Violation?
Because cell phone violations are so dangerous, they can carry some heavy fines. Using your phone at a red light would carry the same penalties:
- A first offense cell phone violation will result in a fine between $200 and $400
- A second offense within 10 years will result in a fine between $400 and $600
- A third or subsequent offense within ten years will result in a fine between $600 and $800, 3 points added to your driving record, and a possible license suspension of 90 days
Cell phone violations carry heavy fines which can severely impact your financial future. If you or a loved one is pulled over for a cell phone violation, you will want to retain the help of a skilled traffic violations attorney. An attorney may be able to lower your fines and/or points. If you have any questions about the proposed bill and how it may affect you, reach out to our firm today.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves on our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
