NYC Texting and Driving Ticket Lawyer

In the hustle and bustle of New York City, safe driving is paramount. Despite our best intentions, distractions sometimes get the best of us. If you’ve been caught texting and driving in New York, you may find yourself in need of a New York City Cell Phone Ticket Lawyer from The Law Office of Craig Bondy. Texting and driving is a serious offense in the state of New York, punishable by heavy fines, points on your license, or even jail time in some cases. Attorney Craig Bondy is here to provide experienced legal advice for you. Contact us today.

Penalties for Texting and Driving in NYC

Texting and driving in New York City, and throughout New York State, is taken very seriously due to the significant dangers associated with distracted driving. The penalties for texting and driving have been designed to deter drivers from engaging in this hazardous behavior. Here’s a breakdown of the penalties:

Fines

• First Offense: Fines can range from $50 to $200.
• Second Offense (within 18 months): Fines can range from $50 to $250.
• Third (or more) Offense (within 18 months): Fines can range from $50 to $450.

Driver Violation Points

If you’re convicted of a texting and driving offense, you will receive 5 points on your driving record.

Possible License Suspension

For drivers with a probationary license, a Class DJ, Class MJ driver license, or learner’s permit: Conviction for a first texting and driving offense can result in a suspension of the driver’s license or permit for 120 days.

A second or subsequent offense committed within six months of the license or permit restoration can result in a revocation of at least one year of the driver’s license or permit. Accumulation of 11 points to your driving record within 18 months from violations will also lead to a license suspension.

Potential Insurance Rate Increase

Texting and driving convictions can also impact your car insurance rates. Insurance companies view these infractions as high risk, and they might increase your premiums as a result.

Possible Defense Costs

If you decide to contest a ticket, you might incur legal fees, especially if you choose to hire an attorney to represent you.

Mandatory Distracted Driving Program

In some cases, especially for repeat offenders, the court might mandate participation in a distracted driving awareness program.

Remember that these penalties are designed to underscore the dangers of texting and driving. Distracted driving, especially texting while driving, significantly increases the risk of accidents, endangering both the driver and other road users. Always prioritize safety and avoid using your phone while driving. Laws and penalties may evolve, so staying updated with current regulations is essential.

Am I Able To Use My Cell Phone In My Car At All?

In New York City and throughout New York State, there are specific laws regulating the use of cell phones and electronic devices while driving. Here’s a breakdown of the rules:

Handheld Cell Phone Use

It’s illegal to use a handheld mobile telephone while you drive unless you use hands-free technology like a headset, earpiece, or voice-activated system. This includes making or receiving calls, accessing apps, browsing the web, or any other handheld device use.

Texting and Driving

Texting or sending an email while driving is illegal. This includes viewing, taking, or sending photos, accessing websites, playing games, or any other interactive data communication that requires multiple key presses or reading.

Exceptions

The only exceptions to these rules are:

• If you are contacting emergency services.
• If you are fully parked, not just stopped in traffic or at a red light.

GPS and Navigation

Using a GPS is allowed, but you should not hold it while driving. It should be attached to the vehicle so that it does not obstruct your view.

Hands-Free Devices

You can use your phone with a hands-free device like Bluetooth, but it’s crucial that the device does not require you to use your hands, except for a single tap or swipe to activate or deactivate a call or feature.

It’s essential to note that even if using a hands-free device, any distraction can be dangerous. Drivers should prioritize safety and avoid engaging in any activity that takes their attention off the road.

Why You Need A Texting and Driving Ticket Lawyer

New York has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in the nation. A conviction can lead to hefty fines, points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and even license suspension for repeat offenders. Don’t let a momentary lapse in judgment jeopardize your driving privileges or tarnish your record. We’re here to help.

Understanding of the Law

Texting and driving laws can be intricate, with nuances that can significantly influence the outcome of a case. A texting and driving ticket lawyer has the experience to navigate these complexities, ensuring your rights are upheld and adequately represented.

Evidence Evaluation

Tickets are not uncommon to be issued based on subjective judgment. An experienced attorney can scrutinize the evidence, verify the ticket’s legitimacy, and challenge any inconsistencies or inaccuracies.

Reducing Penalties

A texting and driving conviction can result in hefty fines, points on your driver’s license, increased insurance premiums, and even suspension for repeat offenders. An experienced traffic ticket lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to mitigate these penalties or, in some cases, dismiss them altogether.

Court Representation

If your case goes to court, you’ll want a cell phone ticket lawyer to argue. Their experience can distinguish between a conviction and an acquittal or reduced charges.

Save Time and Money

While hiring a texting and driving ticket lawyer might seem like an added expense, their ability to reduce or eliminate fines and prevent points from accumulating on your license can save you money in the long run. Moreover, they handle the legal processes, saving time and the stress of navigating the system independently.

Protecting Your Driving Record

A clean driving record is essential for various reasons, from job prospects to insurance rates. With a texting and driving ticket lawyer, you have a better chance of keeping infractions off your record.

Understanding of Local Courts

Every court has its procedures and personnel, from judges to prosecutors. A local texting and driving lawyer will know the ins and outs of the court where your case is heard, allowing for a more tailored defense strategy.

Objective Advice

When faced with a ticket, you might be flooded with emotions – anger, frustration, or even fear. A cell phone ticket lawyer provides objective counsel, ensuring you make informed decisions at every step.

Future Implications

Beyond the immediate penalties, convictions can have lasting consequences, impacting professional driving opportunities or escalating penalties for future violations. A texting and driving ticket lawyer can help you understand and mitigate these long-term effects.

Peace of Mind

Knowing you have a professional, experienced advocate on your side can provide invaluable peace of mind during a stressful situation.

Why Choose The Law Office of Craig Bondy?

• Decades of Experience: Since our inception in 1986, The Law Office of Craig Bondy has been dedicated to providing premier legal representation in the Tri-State Area. Our long-standing history in the legal field equips us with unmatched knowledge and experience.
• Comprehensive Representation: We are a full-service traffic violations defense law firm. From texting and driving infractions to DUIs and license suspensions, our experience covers a wide range of traffic-related cases.
• Relentless Advocacy: Our firm is known for its relentless pursuit of justice. We demand the fair treatment our clients deserve and fight tenaciously on their behalf
• Track Record of Success: Over the years, we’ve consistently secured favorable outcomes for our clients, a testament to our skills, dedication, and thorough understanding of traffic laws in New York and New Jersey.
• Transparent Communication: We prioritize open and transparent communication with our clients, ensuring they’re well-informed at every stage of their case.
• Up-to-Date Knowledge: Traffic laws and regulations evolve over time. Our team stays current with the latest legal developments, ensuring our defense strategies are both innovative and effective.

Contact Us Today

Facing a texting and driving ticket in NYC? Trust the experienced team at The Law Office of Craig Bondy to guide you through the process. Contact us for a consultation, and let’s set a course to protect your rights and driving record.

NYC Cell Phone Ticket FAQs

What constitutes a cell phone violation in NYC?

A cell phone violation occurs when a driver uses a handheld mobile device while driving. This includes making or receiving calls without a hands-free system, texting, checking emails, browsing the internet, taking photos, or any other active engagement with the device.

Are hands-free devices allowed?

Yes, hands-free devices like Bluetooth, earpieces, or voice-activated systems are allowed. However, the device must not require multiple key presses or extended attention from the driver.

How much is the fine for a cell phone violation?

For a first offense, the fine can range from $50 to $200. Repeat offenses within 18 months increase the fine: a second offense can be $50 to $250, and a third (or more) offense can be $50 to $450.

Are there points added to my license for a cell phone ticket?

Yes, if convicted of a cell phone violation, 5 points will be added to your New York State driving record.

Can a cell phone ticket affect my insurance premiums?

Yes, getting a cell phone ticket can be seen as a high-risk behavior by insurance companies, potentially leading to increased insurance premiums.

Is using my phone while stopped at a red light illegal?

Yes, the law prohibits using handheld devices while operating a vehicle, even if you’re temporarily stopped at traffic lights or in traffic.

Can I challenge a cell phone ticket?

Absolutely. You can contest the ticket in court if you believe you were wrongfully ticketed or have evidence to counter the charge. It’s advisable to consult with an experienced cell phone ticket attorney, like those at The Law Office of Craig Bondy, to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

What if I was using my phone in an emergency?

The law does provide exceptions for emergencies. If you were contacting emergency services, it could serve as a defense. However, the situation’s specifics will play a significant role, and it’s best to consult with legal counsel.

Can GPS or navigation apps be used while driving?

GPS systems can be used but should not be held or manually operated while driving. Ideally, they should be mounted in a place that does not obstruct the driver’s view and set up before starting the drive or while the vehicle is parked.

How can I avoid cell phone tickets in the future?

The best way is to avoid using your phone altogether while driving. If you must take a call or use navigation, invest in hands-free technologies or pull over safely to the side of the road before engaging with your device.

Because Craig Bondy cares about your driving future and wants to win as much as you do, he offers free ticket evaluations and no-obligation initial consultations. Call 212-257-8321 or send an email message. Hablamos Español.