Lower Township Police Will Enforce No Texting While Driving

ERMA – Law enforcement officers from the Lower Township Police Department will crack down on distracted drivers during April as part of New Jersey’s UDrive. UText. UPay. enforcement campaign, according to a release.
From April 1-21, the high-visibility law enforcement initiative will target motorists who engage in dangerous distracted driving behaviors, such as talking on hand-held cell phones and sending text messages while driving.
Distracted driving has become one of the most common reasons for vehicle crashes on America’s roads. That’s why the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is teaming up with law enforcement agencies across the United States for the national U Drive. U Text. U Pay. high-visibility enforcement effort. Officers will be on high alert to catch distracted drivers and enforce distracted-driving laws.
According to NHTSA, in 2016, 3,450 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.
Nearly one-tenth of all fatal crashes in 2016 were reported as distraction-affected. Texting while driving has become an especially problematic trend among millennials.
According to NHTSA, young drivers 16 to 24 years old have been observed using handheld electronic devices while driving at higher rates than older drivers, since 2007.
 “We can’t say it enough: distracted driving is a life or death issue,” stated Chief William Mastriana. “What people need to understand is how dangerous it is to take your eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and concentration off the task of driving safely. It only takes a few seconds for a child to run into the street or for you to drive through a red light or stop sign and crash, potentially killing someone or yourself.
“That’s why during April, you will see an increased police presence on the roadways, and anyone who is caught texting and driving, will pay.”
Violating New Jersey’s distracted driving laws comes at a cost. New Jersey Statute Title 39:4-97.3 Operating Motor Vehicle while Using Cellphone; will be enforced during this campaign. 
If it is a first time offense, being convicted of distracted driving the person will be forced to pay a $200 minimum fine ($400 maximum fine).
For a second offense, the minimum fine doubles to $400 ($600 maximum fine).  A third cell phone ticket conviction will result in:
•    90-Day license suspension
•    Three points
•    Minimum $600 fine ($800 max. fine)
Additionally, the person’s auto insurance carrier will usually label them as “careless driving” or a “distracted driver” and dramatically increase premiums, even for the first offense.
 “Too many drivers are ignoring their responsibilities behind the wheel,” stated Sgt. 1st Class Donald Vanaman.
“Do the right thing—put your phone away when you get behind the wheel. Save yourself the embarrassment and expense of getting pulled over on account of your cell phone—and more importantly, maybe save someone’s life.”
 •    If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location. Once safely off the road, it is safe to text.
•    Designate a passenger as “designated texter.” Allow them access to the phone to respond to calls or messages.
•    Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
•    Cell phone use can be habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Put the cell phone in the trunk or back seat of the vehicle, until arrival at the final destination.