221 people were found in violation of the "Operation Hang-Up" legislation in one week on Long Island, according to a Newsday report. From April 23 to the 28, 112 people received tickets in Nassau County alone.
These latest statistics have local politicians on edge as they have been pioneers of hands-free cell phone use policies.
"It's sad because people will get maimed and die from injuries as a result of this activity," said , who sponsored Operation Hang-Up legislation and was let down by the latest numbers, the report stated.
was also disappointed in people's unawareness of their "holding a death instrument in their hands," wrote Newsday.
So be honest: Do you obey the current laws regarding cell phone use from behind the wheel? Do you allow yourself the few instances where you must respond to a text or answer a call? Or do you completely cut off communication from the driver's seat?
Vote in the poll below and tell us your thoughts in the comments!
Having taken visual polls of how many people talk or text while driving, one of my conclusions is that one of every three drivers on Southwoods Rd between 7:00-7:30am on weekdays drive while speaking or texting. Many of these are inexperienced teenagers driving to school, often with friends in the car, providing further distraction. Kudos to Senator Marcellino and Legislator Jacobs for supporting the new laws, but where are the police?
Then again I also change the radio station, put in Cd's, eat food, talk to passengers (some times very excitedly) and look at maps while in the car. I think I use good judgement and timing. When the car is in motion my mind and eyes are on the road.