Thruway motorist be forewarned: starting Monday, Sept. 20, state police will be stepping up enforcement of cell-phone laws during Operation Hang Up IV.
From Monday to Thursday, troopers will be paying special attention for motorists using a cell phone without a hands-free device. Violators face a maximum fine of $100 with a mandatory $60 surcharge.
During the last `Operation Hang Up,` state police in Troop T issued 816 tickets. During the entire year, 8,981 tickets were issued.
`A distracted driver is a hazard to all motorists. Members of Troop T are aware that cell phone usage is a common form of driver distraction, and they aggressively enforce this violation,` said Troop T Commander Major Robert C. Meyers in a statement. `’Operation Hang Up IV’` is a concentrated enforcement effort that will reinforce to the motoring public that these violations are taken seriously and will not be tolerated.`
It is also illegal to text message or surf the Internet while driving. That law carries a $150 maximum fine.“