CELLULAR PHONE LAW

Keep the Focus on Driving

NEW YORK STATE'S
CELLULAR PHONE LAW

Use of a hand-held cellular telephone to 
engage in a call while driving is 
prohibited in New York State, pursuant to 
Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1225c.

 

 

speaker Exceptions:
  When the driver uses a hands-free mobile telephone, which allows the user to communicate without the use of either hand.
When the purpose of the phone call is to communicate an emergency to a police or fire department, a hospital or physician's office, or an ambulance corps.
When operating an authorized emergency vehicle in the performance of official duties.
speaker Penalty:
As of December 1, 2001 violators may be issued a ticket for a traffic infraction, resulting in a fine of up to $100.

Tips for Safe Cell Phone Use

  • Buckle up.
  • Keep your hands on the wheel.
  • Keep your eyes on the road.
  • Position your phone where it is easy to see.
  • Familiarize yourself with the phone's operation while the car is parked.
  • Use a hands-free microphone while driving.
  • Use the speed dial feature for frequently called numbers.
  • Safely pull over and dial manually.
  • Never take notes while driving.  Pull off the road if you must read or write.
  • Use voice mail to pick up your calls if it is inconvenient or unsafe to answer the car phone.

(These tips for safe cellular phone use were provided by the 
Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association.)

 

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NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES

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www.dmv.ny.gov

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