Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety announced on April 1 an increase in enforcement efforts across New Jersey to address distracted driving. The “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign will run throughout April, coinciding with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
The initiative aims to reduce accidents caused by distractions such as cellphone use while driving. In 2024, distracted drivers were involved in 42 percent of crashes in New Jersey, resulting in 175 deaths and about 1,500 serious injuries.
“Drivers should focus on the road and getting to their destination safely,” said Attorney General Davenport. “It is dangerous to do other tasks while driving, especially using a cellphone. This campaign aims not just to enforce the laws and hold violators accountable, but also to change behaviors to prevent tragedies.”
Michael J. Rizol, Jr., Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, said: “When you’re driving, nothing is more important than your safety and the safety of others. Behaviors like texting take your mind, eyes, and hands away from the task of driving. Cellphone use while driving is especially dangerous. Other distractions eating, drinking, adjusting vehicle controls, and tending to passengers also can lead to a crash.”
The Division is providing $706,860 in grants for local law enforcement agencies during this year’s campaign period. An additional $211,820 has been awarded for state police patrols along major highways including the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway.
State law prohibits using handheld cellphones or devices while operating a vehicle; penalties range from $200 up to $800 depending on prior offenses along with mandatory court appearances and insurance points.
Last year’s campaign led police statewide to issue nearly 6,900 citations for cellphone use or texting behind the wheel during April alone.
According to the official website, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin oversees efforts that protect residents’ lives and property by enforcing legal standards statewide; his office’s authority extends across all counties and municipalities within New Jersey. Accordingto its statutory mandate,the office holds authorityto enforce laws related public safety matters,regulate oversight, provide state legal representation,support crime labs, advocate for victims,and offer consumer protection initiatives.
Broader implications suggest that increased enforcement could help decrease distraction-related crashes statewide as authorities continue public education alongside ticketing campaigns.