Latest local news, weather and sports for Syracuse and Central New York

Wednesday, June 12, 2013  A new AAA study says using voice commands to send text messages and emails from behind the wheel, which is marketed as a safer alternative for drivers, actually is more distracting and dangerous than simply using a cellphone.

Wednesday, June 05, 2013  New York lawmakers have voted to suspend the licenses of young drivers for 60 days when they're caught texting or using a hand-held cell phone while on the road.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013  The Town of Cicero is teaching new drivers about the realities about distracted and impaired driving. The Police Department purchased a driving simulator to take these teens through the real life scenarios they will look to avoid going forward.

Tuesday, February 26, 2013  Legislation in Albany would prohibit the use of dashboard computers while driving.

Monday, February 18, 2013  The distracted driving initiative will take place through March 1. Police will be targeting drivers who don't use a hands free device and anyone who sends or receives text messages or emails while driving.

Monday, November 19, 2012  State Police conducting Operation Hang Up during Thanksgiving week to crack down on distracted driving.

Friday, July 13, 2012  Authorities in New York report issuing more than 20,000 tickets to motorists in the first year under a tougher law against using handheld electronics while driving.

Wednesday, May 09, 2012  A teenage driver's risk of dying in an accident increases dramatically when there are other teens in the car, and plummets when there's an adult looking on, according to a study by AAA's safety foundation.

Monday, April 23, 2012  The next time you get behind the wheel, make sure to put down your cell phone.

Friday, March 09, 2012  Students in the East Syracuse-Minoa district won a first place prize and $15,000 for their school for the distracted driving video they put together.

Friday, February 17, 2012  Two students in the East Syracuse-Minoa district are hoping to win $15,000 for their school.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012  Police across New York state have issued nearly 119,000 tickets to drivers using handheld devices behind the wheel in the last seven months.

Thursday, January 05, 2012  A Madison County man was sentenced six years in prison after pleading guilty to killing a woman with his car while driving distracted.

Friday, December 09, 2011  For all the criticism and new legal bans, texting by drivers just keeps increasing, especially among younger motorists.

Friday, December 02, 2011  More than 800 drivers across New York were issued tickets for texting while driving over the Thanksgiving holiday.