Tickets Are on the Rise for New Jersey Drivers Talking on Cell Phones

Tickets for New Jersey motorists who choose to talk on the phone without using a hands-free headset are on the rise. Since the violation became a primary offense ( this means the police can pull you over for the offense without needing any other violation to do so) this March, tickets have increased an amazing eightfold.

Many New Jersey motorist are finding out firsthand that New Jersey has gotten serious about cracking down on the dangerous and defiant use of hand-held cell phones while driving.

Text-messaging and using other electronic devices such as BlackBerries while driving have also been banned on New Jersey roads.

The ticket is $130. That can be an expensive conversation you may not soon forget. Also don’t think that it’s okay to talk on the bridge between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. It turns out Delaware River Port Authority police can enforce either state’s laws anywhere on their bridges, spokeswoman Danelle Hunter said.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, drivers having phone conversations are four times as likely to have an accident – even with hands-free devices.

Pam Fischer, director of New Jersey’s Division of Highway Traffic safety says, "You’re still distracted… You stop scanning the road, and you stop scanning the mirrors. You have tunnel vision."

Her advice: Those who choose to call while driving should "do it hands free" and "make it as quick as possible. ""Hang up and get back to driving, which is the only thing that you should be doing when you’re behind the wheel."

If you still don’t have a hands-free head set for driving, it may be a good idea to get one. It’s got to be cheaper than a $130 ticket and it’s safer, as well. So like the Doors song says, "keep your eyes on the road and your hands upon the wheel."

Source: The Philadelphia Inquirer.

If you have a driving violation in the state of New Jersey we can help. Call the New Jersey Law office of Garces & Grabler at: 888-455-1549 or contact us