Distracted Driving Tickets
As a criminal defense lawyer with offices in Westchester County, New York it is important to keep updated on new changes in the law. Over the years there have been several changes to the New York DWI laws and changes to local District Attorney office's polices regarding to the New York Penal Law and New York Vehicle and Traffic Laws (VTL). The top criminal defense lawyers know the law, changes in the law and the policies of prosecutors.
Learn more on our website about the DWI Laws, DWI defense and Traffic Ticket Defense.
Changes in the law for cell phone and texting tickets
The points for distracted driving including violations for cell phones and texting tickets have been increased from three points to five points. If you are charged with VTL 1225-c or 1225-d after June 1, 2013 you will be subject to the new increased point structure.
Distracted Driving
It is very important to have an experienced traffic ticket lawyer represent you in a distracted driving case. The new higher points can result in a suspension of your driver's license (points) and can also result in increased insurance rates.
Police are now writing more tickets for these offenses due to the increased point structure. For Example, in Westchester County jurisdictions such as White Plains City Court, Harrison Town Court, Greenburgh Town Court and North Castle Town Court there have been increased patrols and ticketing for distracted driving.
Additional Changes to the laws of Distracted Driving
Effective October 28, 2013 the definition of a portable device shall include any electronic device when used to input, write, send, receive or read text for present or future communications and using shall further be defined as holding a portable electronic device while viewing talking transmitting images, playing games or for the purpose of present or future communication: performing a command or request to access the world wide web. This includes browsing the web, searching the web, check text messages or e-mails. A probationary and junior license holder can expect a license suspension upon conviction.
High Point Driving Violations
By increasing the point values the DMV has transformed these offenses into "High Point" Driving Violations" which can have significant consequences for motorists with prior DWI convictions. Also the driver responsibility assessment will be triggered if the motorist accumulates six or more pints in an 18 month period. This results in a separate DMV administrative penalty.
Fines
The fines for a cell phone or texting ticket as of June 26, 2013 will be between $50.00 and $150.00 for the first violation. For a second violation in 18 months between $50 and $200.00. For a third or subsequent violation in 18 Months between $50.00 and $400.00.
Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP – Westchester County, White Plains
At Proto, Sachs & Brown, LLP we are a team of lawyers and will aggressively represent you in any criminal matter. If you are charged with DWI or distracted driving call our office for a Free Consultation. We always take the time to review your case and present you with options for proceeding. Our main offices are located in Westchester County, White Plains
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