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Holding the phone in your hand while at a red light could cost you the same fine as texting while driving under a new bill.
The proposed measure, S1602, aims to reduce distracted driving, which has been the leading cause of fatal crashes in New Jersey since 2011.
More than 1,372 crashes were blamed on cell phone use in 2018, and caused at least one fatal crash that year, according to state Department of Transportation data.
Currently, drivers in New Jersey can text or hold a phone during a call while in traffic or at a red light, although it’s discouraged by officials. Using handheld devices or texting while driving has been illegal since 2008.
Under the bill, sponsored by Sen. Richard Codey, D-Essex, drivers would face a fine of $200 to $400 for a first offense, and $400 to $600 for a second offense. A third violation would result in an $800 fine and license suspension for up to three months.
The bill would still allow drivers to pull to the side of the road to use their phones.
It was unanimously approved by the Senate Transportation Committee on Tuesday. It does not have an accompanying bill in the Assembly.
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Sophie Nieto-Munoz may be reached at snietomunoz@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her at @snietomunoz.
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