N.J. gets tougher on cell-holding drivers

Starting Saturday, law enforcement officers in New Jersey can pull drivers over for using handheld phones and other electronic devices.

Talking, listening or texting while driving will be subject to a $100 fine, though no points will be assessed, according to a bulletin from the state Division of Highway Traffic Safety.

"There will be no grace period," said State Police spokesman Capt. Al Della Fave.

Because of a publicity campaign, including warning signs such as one on the Ben Franklin Bridge, "the public should be well-aware," he said.

Troopers will use their discretion, as always, whether to use warnings, or even issue a summons for careless driving, if cell phone use is accompanied by other unsafe practices, such as speeding or cutting off other drivers, he said.

Reading a book, checking a map, watching a movie or playing an electronic game - these things are already treated as example of careless or inattentive driving, he said.

Previously, drivers in New Jersey could be fined for hands-on calling, but only if pulled over for another reason. The amended statute now also specifically bars texting while driving.

Similar efforts in Pennsylvania to curb handheld cell phones while driving have been in the slow lane, stalling in the House and Senate.

A bill sponsored by Rep. Josh Shapiro (D., Montgomery) would make it illegal to drive while using a hand-held cell phone. Shapiro, who introduced the measure five months ago, said the need is clear.

In 2006, he said, Pennsylvania transportation officials reported 1,241 accidents attributed to drivers using a handheld cell phone. That year, only 60 accidents were caused by hands-free devices, Shapiro said.

"It's time to follow New Jersey's example and disconnect distracted drivers on Pennsylvania roadways," Shapiro said today.

Drivers in New Jersey will still be permitted to conduct calls using hands-free devices, such as headsets, earphones or speakers.

Exceptions for using handheld phones are allowed during emergencies, such as a threat to the driver or another person's life or safety, or an attempt to reach authorities to report a fire, crash, road hazard or unsafe driver.

Gov. Corzine signed the law amending the statute in November.