Statewide Crackdown on Distracted Driving Receives $1 Million Boost

AG Platkin’s “Put the Phone Away or Pay” Campaign Targets Risky Motorists in April to Reduce Injuries and Fatalities Across New Jersey

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS) have launched a high-visibility enforcement campaign aimed at curbing distracted driving on New Jersey roads this month. Titled “Put the Phone Away or Pay,” the initiative runs from April 1 through April 30, providing over $1 million in grants to local law enforcement agencies statewide to intensify patrols and enforcement of laws that prohibit texting or using handheld devices while driving.

“Combining public awareness campaigns like this with increased enforcement efforts against distracted driving help ensure that drivers keep their attention on the road and off their phones,” said Attorney General Platkin. “Staying focused behind the wheel from the moment you step into your car is crucial in preventing a possible tragedy. Working together, we can help make roadways across New Jersey safer.”

Preliminary data indicates that in 2023, 48 percent of drivers involved in crashes across New Jersey were engaged in distracted behavior, resulting in 160 fatalities and more than 1,400 serious injuries. To counter this trend, HTS is funding targeted saturation patrols in 158 law enforcement agencies across 19 counties. An additional $211,820 has been allocated to the New Jersey State Police for patrols on major highways including the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, and interstates.

“Every second behind the wheel demands a driver’s full attention,” said Michael J. Rizol, Jr., Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “During National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, HTS remains unwavering in its dedication to educating drivers about the consequences of distracted driving and is fully committed to equipping our law enforcement partners with the essential resources to swiftly address and remove distracted drivers from our roads.”

Local Impact:

Morris County agencies have been awarded grants to intensify enforcement within their jurisdictions. Among the recipients are:

• Hanover: $8,750

• Jefferson: $7,000

• Mount Olive: $7,000

• Parsippany-Troy Hills: $12,250

These funds will support officers in spotting and citing drivers who ignore New Jersey’s ban on handheld device use while operating a vehicle. First-time violators may be fined $200 to $400, with subsequent offenses carrying higher penalties of up to $800 plus three insurance points.

In 2024, New Jersey’s distracted driving enforcement yielded over 9,000 citations for cell phone use or texting and nearly 4,800 citations for careless driving. By increasing both public awareness and enforcement efforts this April, the state hopes to reduce driver distraction and enhance road safety.

For additional details on ongoing traffic safety campaigns, visit njsaferoads.com.