The NYPD is once again targeting drivers who illegally use hand-held cell phones while driving, it was announced this evening.
The citywide 24-hour crackdown will begin at midnight, as police officers will be on the lookout for drivers who text or talk on a cell phone — a dangerous habit that endangers both drivers and pedestrians.
Those snagged in the enforcement dragnet could face a fine of $130, police said.
A similar initiative carried out earlier this year on Jan. 21 resulted in 7,485 summonses being issued, according to NYPD statistics.
During 2009, the NYPD says it averaged 617 summonses a day to drivers using hand-held cell phones.
That number is up significantly from 2008, when the NYPD issued, on average, 536 summonses a day for illegal cell phone use by automobile operators.
(Source: http://www.silive.com/)
Why specifically now? Did something happen?
can someone enlighten me on the specifics of the NO TEXTING laws and regulations in NYC and its surrounding areas, thanks a million!
The economy hit a new bottom. The city needs money while waiting for all the new and raised taxes to kick in.
7,485 summonses x $130 per – not bad for one day’s work.