Long Island Traffic Attorney: What Can Happen If You’re Caught Talking on a Cell Phone and Texting while Driving on Long Island

Tickets issued for violating New York State’s Cell Phone Law may have severe consequences if received in Nassau or Suffolk County. Using a hand-held mobile phone to talk or text while driving can result in hundreds of dollars in fines. In addition, probationary and permit drivers may risk losing their driving privilege if they are convicted of these charges.

Consequences of Talking and Texting on a Cell Phone

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles, drivers caught using a cell phone or texting while driving on Long Island can carry fines of up to $200, plus surcharge for the first offense, and if convicted within 18 months, the fines can increase. A second conviction may lead to your license being suspended while a third conviction probably will. In addition, these texting while driving violations (Improper Use of Portable Electronic Device and Driving While Using Your Cellphone) carry 5 points on your driving record, which may lead to an increase on your insurance premiums. Representation by a Long Island Traffic Lawyer can potentially save motorists from the financial hardships that can result from a conviction.

Probationary and Permit Drivers

Probationary or permit drivers caught violating Long Island cell phone laws are subject to even harsher penalties. These include the suspension of their license or learner’s permit for a period of 120 days for the first offense, and the revocation of their license or learner’s permit if convicted for the same offense within 6 months of having their driving privileges restored. Talking on a cell phone while driving on Long Island is certainly not worth the risk when you consider the consequences for this violation. If you receive a summons for texting or talking while driving, we strongly advise you to consult a traffic ticket attorney before you proceed.

Long Island traffic attorneys urge drivers to be safe and not use a cell phone while driving. If you do not have access to a hands-free mobile device, please do not text and drive or talk on the phone and drive. Pull over, park your car, and turn off the ignition before you use your cell phone. If you would like more information on how a Long Island traffic lawyer can help you with cell phone violations, including how being represented by an attorney can possibly save you from a court appearance, please contact our office at (212) 227-9008 for assistance.