Law enforcement across New York state will increase patrols beginning April 7 as part of a new Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign. The effort will raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving as April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

During the enforcement period, New York State Police will be conducting “Operation Hang Up,” a special enforcement effort to step up patrols and checkpoints targeting drivers on electronic devices.  

“All motorists have a responsibility to always keep their focus on driving and nothing else,” said New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and GTSC Chair Mark J.F. Schroeder. “Distracted driving can result in needless tragedies that could have easily been prevented. New York was the first state to prohibit cellphone use while driving, and we will continue to reinforce our message to drivers to always keep their eyes and attention on the road when they are behind the wheel.”  

The Distracted Driving Enforcement Campaign will run through April 14. 

“Distracted driving is just as dangerous as speeding or impaired driving and continues to be a contributing factor of motor vehicle crashes," New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James added. "Each year, there are needless tragedies and victims left behind because someone couldn’t put down their handheld device. The New York State Police is proud to partner with the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee to make New York’s roads safer, by discouraging, detecting, and arresting distracted drivers.” 

Last year, law enforcement throughout the state issued 67,083 tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations, including 6,754 tickets for distracted driving.