ALBANY (AP) -- Drivers caught talking or texting on their cell phones now face another punishment: two points on their license.
The new punishment imposed by the state Department of Motor Vehicles takes effect today. Points can lead to higher auto insurance costs and a suspension of a driver's license if a person gets 11 points within 18 months.
It has been illegal to use a cell phone without a hands-free accessory since 2001 in New York. The law was enforced only with a ticket and fine up until now. But the DMV decided to add the points punishment to reduce the number of distracted driving incidents.
According to the DMV, driver distraction contributes to at least one of five crashes statewide.
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