New York State Troopers are handing out violations for motorists driving with a cell-phone. New research from the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) says teenagers are at the highest risk of being pulled over for breaking this law.
"Operation Hang Up" is a four day initiative to eliminate distracted drivers from the highway and reduce traffic accidents. The program began Monday, October 12 and the enforcement period ends Thursday, October 15th.
Le Moyne students were not surprised to hear that troopers were handing out tickets to most of their classmates. Tyler Hammond, a junior at Le Moyne told reporters, "Honestly if the phone rings while I'm driving, I'm going to pick it up."
According to the NHTSA, in 2008, teenagers comprised 22% of people injured in crashes involving distraction. In response to the increasing numbers, members of Troop T issued 5, 403 tickets to Thruway motorists that year.
In comparison to its last attempt in April, Troopers aren't seeing much success this time around. Sergeant Martin, a State Trooper says "there is just not enough man power within the unit to have eyes everywhere."
Most drivers are caught at toll booths, under passes, or stop lights. But police say it's still difficult to tell if someone is on their phone or using the hands free blue tooth technology.
Violators who are ticketed face up to $100 in ticket fines combined with a $60 court fee.
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