Yates County Sheriff / April 7, 2026
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Put the Phone Away or Pay campaign is reminding drivers of the deadly dangers and legal consequences — including fines — of texting and other forms of messaging behind the wheel. From April 9-13, 2026, law enforcement nationwide will work together to enforce laws prohibiting distracted driving behind the wheel. These efforts come during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
Cell phone use, texting and other activities that don’t contribute to safe driving are all forms of distracted driving. In 49 states, including Washington, DC, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands and the Virgin Islands, texting while driving is illegal. According to NHTSA, in 2024 there were 3,208 people killed and an estimated additional 315,167 people injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers. However, data collection limitations show that these figures are likely lower than the real figures.
“Distracted driving, mainly cell phone use, remains a major contributor to serious and fatal crashes,” said Sheriff Ryan. “It is dangerous, it is illegal, and it puts everyone on the road at risk. Our deputies will increase enforcement and stop and ticket anyone who is texting and driving. If you drive distracted, you will face the consequences,” he said.
Violating New York State’s distracted-driving laws can be costly. New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law sections 1225-c and 1225-d prohibit the use of handheld devices while operating a motor vehicle. This includes calls, videos, pictures, web browsing, and texting. Aside from the obvious dangers that are present, fines can range from 50 to 450 dollars dependent on number of previous convictions, points added to your license, and in the cases of junior operators, a suspension of operating privileges.
Safe driving can be adopted by these phone-free driving habits:
Pull over and park in a safe location before using the phone to send or read a text message.
Ask a passenger to be the “designated texter” and allow them to manage calls and messages during the drive.
Avoid social media scrolling and any form of messaging while behind the wheel.
Use “Do Not Disturb” mode to silence notifications.
Drivers can put their phone in the trunk, glove box or back seat of the vehicle to break the habit of driving distracted.
