N.J. Drivers Get New Incentive to Hang Up

While many cities and some states have made it illegal to use cell phones while driving without a hands-free device, New Jersey has become the first state in the country to give cops the right to pull drivers over for only that offense. In Illinois and elsewhere, cops could add that charge to the ticket if they pulled you over for some other reason, or if you’d been in an accident while on the phone.

Now, cops in “Sopranos”-land can make you cough up $130 just for talking or text-messaging on a hand-held device. Ouch.

Newsday reports that cops will keep their eyes open for distracted drivers. How? They look for warning signs, of course: Slow driving and the “cell-phone weave,” said Pam Fischer, director of New Jersey's Division of Highway Traffic Safety.

Motorists are still allowed to use their phones in case of emergency, and can still talk while using a hands-free device to avoid the fine. Of course, there’s plenty of research out there that says it’s not holding the phone that’s the biggest problem; it’s being deep in conversation that’s the distraction. Jersey cops also admit that enforcement may be tough, but they say they’re hoping the new law will open the eyes, if not the ears, of local drivers.

Shut up or pay up: Drivers face start of tougher NJ phone ban (Newsday)

Comments

When will that become law in all 50 states?

Just too sick of people getting distracted and don't drive like they know what they are doing.

Mythbusters has tried comparing driving while talking on the phone is just as bad as driving drunk.

I agree with J. This law needs to be mandatory in all 50 states. I too am tired of seeing people driving while talking on cell phones. A bluetooth doesn't make it better. Looking down to dial a number or having the phone on the wheel to text while driving is worst. The fine should be $500.00 instead of $100.00 and maybe this madness will end.

I live in Chicago,IL. and it was said the police would fine $50.00 to anyone in Chicago caught driving while talking on their cell. The car windows are down and deep-drama conversations can be heard near or far. I see the "law" stop at lights and stop signs in clear view of motorists using cell phones. I have yet to see a ticket being written.