WHITE PLAINS, NY – March 6, 2026 –
The White Plains Police Department will participate in a national distracted driving enforcement campaign as part of April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The initiative, known as “Put the Phone Away or Pay,” will run from April 6 through April 13, 2026.
During this campaign, officers will conduct targeted enforcement focused on drivers using electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle.
Distracted driving continues to be a serious public safety concern. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 3,200 people were killed in distraction-related crashes in the United States in 2024.
During the April 2025 campaign, law enforcement agencies across New York State issued 22,867 tickets, including 4,607 for distracted driving violations.
To help prevent crashes and save lives, NHTSA recommends:
- Pull over to a safe location before sending or receiving a text
- Designate a passenger to handle communications
- Keep your phone out of reach if you are prone to distraction
New York State law includes the following penalties for distracted driving:
- First offense: $50–$200 fine
- Second offense within 18 months: up to $250 fine
- Third or subsequent offense within 18 months: up to $450 fine
- Probationary and junior drivers face a 120-day suspension for a first offense and a one-year revocation for a second offense within six months
The White Plains Police Department urges all motorists to stay focused behind the wheel and make responsible choices to keep our roads safe.