October 28, 2004

This past summer, the use of cell phones while driving was banned here in the state of New Jersey. We’re now in November. What are the odds that there’s actually compliance with this?!?

Slim to none!

Hand-Held Cell Phone Ban Takes Effect July 1, 2004

(TRENTON) - New Jersey’s new law banning hand-held cell phones takes effect in 10 days, and state officials today are reminding drivers of the upcoming deadline and the dangers posed by distractions in their vehicles.

On July 1, 2004, drivers will be required to use a “hands free” device while using their wireless phones.

The new law is considered a secondary offense, meaning drivers can only be ticketed if stopped by law enforcement for another violation. The penalty is a fine ranging from $100 to $250.

Whether it’s supporting fewer distractions for drivers or providing customers with a secure document like a digital driver license, the safety and security of our customers is MVC’s top priority.
- Sharon A. Harrington, Chief Administrator of the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission

Drivers may use a hand-held wireless phone in emergencies, such as to report a fire, traffic accident, or unsafe driver, or if they have reason to fear for their safety.

The Division of Highway Traffic Safety urges motorists to beware of distractions when behind the wheel. Common distractions that can cause crashes include talking on a cellular phone, tuning a radio or CD player, applying makeup, eating or drinking, and tending to children or pets.

Driving is a complex task that requires your full attention. The message to motorists is simple: Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. Avoid distractions to arrive alive.
- Roberto Rodriguez, Director of the Division

The Division of Highway Traffic Safety, in cooperation with Governor James E. McGreevey’s Task Force on Driver Distraction and Highway Safety, will undertake a public awareness campaign this summer to educate New Jersey motorists about the new law and driver distraction in general.

The best advice that we can give to drivers is to limit distractions as much as possible: Set your radio and temperature controls before setting out, pull over to eat or drink, and do not talk on a cellular phone while driving.
- Marvin Reed, Task Force Chairman.

(Official Press Release from NJMVC)
That was July. This is now October. How’s the new law being accepted? Not very well I’ve noticed.

We’ve known for the past 2-3 years that this legislation was coming, and a small percentage even prepared for it - purchasing handsfree set-ups, and headsets. But the vast majority apparently have not grasped the concept of handsfree talking, with the phone glued to their ear as they navigate their way through 24/7 congested traffic.

It’s aggravating as hell to get in the general vicinity of these violators. They don’t realize the hazards they’re posing to others because their attention has now been deviated from driving a vehicle to driving while talking. There you go: DWT.

And, the only way a driver can be issued a summons for DWT is via a second moving offense. You can get pulled over and harrassed for an expired license tag or registration. But not for reckless driving? Come on.

Be courteous folks - go spend $1.00 at the dollar store and pick up a headset. Give the rest of us a break. Better yet - turn the damned thing off until you reach your destination.

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