Tougher Penalties Go Into Effect For NYS Drivers Using Hand-Held Phones

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Those who can't keep their hands off their devices while driving will now face stiffer penalties in New York.

Beginning Saturday, new drivers who are caught using a cell phone without a hands-free device could face a 120-day license suspension.

A second offense will lead to a year-long suspension.

More experienced motorists will now face steeper fines for repeat offenses.

Drivers who are caught using a hand-held phone twice within an 18-month period will now be fined $250 -- up from $200.

The $50 fine for a first offense remained unchanged.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said since driving habits start early, tougher penalties should remind younger drivers that texting while driving is unsafe and unacceptable.

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