If you happen to be someone who sends an occasional text message while behind the wheel, get ready to pay for it. The need to eliminate distractions while driving is becoming a crucial issue that Governor Andrew M. Cuomo of New York is attempting to solve.  Recently, the Governor announced new and increased fines for distracted driving violations, including texting-while driving or using an electronic handheld device, effective as of July 26, 2013.

As a safety measure for preventing distracted driving related accidents and fatalities, the Governor’s plan is to use these laws and fines to make the state of New York’s roads and highways safer for its drivers.

“Combined with stronger penalties on your license and increased enforcement, these increased fines will send a tough message to all drivers that distracted driving is a serious problem with serious consequences. Using a multi-pronged approach to combat this dangerous habit will make drivers think twice before using their cell phones behind the wheel. As New York’s law enforcement patrols our highways and roads this summer, we are warning drivers: Don’t text-and-drive or you will pay for it,” said Governor Cuomo.

Violations for distracted driving after July 26, 2013 will include a minimum fine of $50 and maximum fine up to $150 for a first offense. A second offense within 18 months will increase the fine up to $200 while a third succeeding offense will cost $400. These fines were passed as part of the 2013-2014 State Budget. 

Source (News - Alert): textinganddrivingsafety.com

According to the infographic above, at least 23 percent of auto collisions involved cell phones in 2011. This accounts for 1.3 million crashes. The data here shows that texting while driving makes a crash up to 23 times more likely.

Before you think about picking up your cell phone next time with one hand while driving with the other, keep these thoughts in mind. Using your electronic device is extremely harmful to everyone on the road, including yourself.