NEW LAW ALERT!!!! TALKING AND TEXTING WHILE DRIVING IS SUSPENSEFUL (AS TO YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGES)

Commencing Wednesday, February 16, 2011, if you are found guilty of using a handheld phone while driving in New York, you will incur two points on your driving record as well as a fine up to $100.

Presently the Department of Motor Vehicle of New York (“DMV”) imposes a two point penalty and a fine up to $150 for motorists who are found guilty of texting while driving.

The Vehicle and Traffic Law of New York State defines the use of a cell phone as a  user who engages in a call using at least one hand holding the phone to, or in the immediate proximity of, the user's ear. 

If you incur enough points in a specific time period, DMV can suspend your license. Under the points system, drivers have their licenses suspended if they accumulate 11 or more points over an 18 month period.

At Wisselman, Harounian & Associates, P.C., it is our endeavor to keep you advised of the latest developments in law.  Depending upon the particular Court, if you receive a cell phone ticket, or any other summons, contact us for a free consultation.  Wisselman, Harounian & Associates, may be  able to plea bargain your ticket to a lower offense with less points. The reduced offense may avoid triggering higher insurance premiums for years, protect your license from being suspended or revoked, as well as help you avoid jail time.