What Penalties Can I Face for Using a Cell Phone While Driving in New Jersey?
With the increase in cell phone usage and the creation of smartphones, people can be seen using them at any time of the day. Unfortunately, this often includes while they are driving. The law in New Jersey requires all drivers to follow the rules of the road in order to ensure the safety of all drivers. Any distractions behind the wheel can lead to serious accidents as a result. It is because of this that using a phone while driving is considered a traffic violation. Drivers who are given a cell phone violation can face certain penalties as a result.
What is Considered a Cell Phone Violation?
When a driver uses a cell phone behind the wheel, it means they are not paying attention to the road in front of them. This can put themselves and anyone else sharing the road at risk of being involved in a dangerous accident. It is because of this that it is crucial for drivers to not touch their electronic devices while they are operating a vehicle. Some examples of cell phone violations that are commonly seen can include:
- Talking on a handheld mobile phone
- Writing, sending, reading, or receiving any data. This can include text messages, emails, or using social media.
- Searching through the internet
- Watching or taking any pictures or videos
- Playing games
What are the Penalties of a Cell Phone Violation?
When a person uses a cell phone while driving, they can be stopped by law enforcement to receive a ticket for violating the state’s cell phone laws. This can result in certain fines that vary depending on the nature of the offense. If it is the driver’s first time receiving a cell phone violation, they can be charged with a fine between $200 and $400. If it is their second offense, they may face a fine between $400 and $600. The fine for a driver’s third or subsequent offense can increase to a minimum of $600 and a maximum of $800.
When a driver faces a cell phone violation for the third time, it is important to know that they can face more consequences as a result. This can include three points on their driving record as well as higher insurance premiums. In addition to this, there are some cases in which a driver may be subject to a license suspension.
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The Law Offices of Richard E. Novak, LLC has over 25 years of experience helping clients through tough times when they need it most. If you need assistance with any intellectual property, traffic violations, or business law matters, our firm is here to help. It is critical that you pick the right attorney who can protect your rights. Contact The Law Offices of Richard E. Novak, LLC for a consultation.