Beginning next Wed., Feb.16, 2011, a conviction for a cell violation in New York will carry two points. So for any of you out there with pending cell phone cases, you may want to think twice about pleading guilty (as most people do). In the past, cell phone tickets have been regarded by most drivers as a nuisance that is worth desposing of by pleading guilty by mail and paying the fine. But now with points attached, cell phone convictions will cause a whole new world of trouble for drivers in New York.
Points Matter-if you get six points in 18 months you have to a pay a driver assessment fee to the NY DMV. It is $300 for the first six points and $75 for every point over six accumulated in an 18 month period. If you get 11 points in 18 months your license will be suspended. (These rules apply to your NY driving privileges even if you are an out of state driver). So before you decide to plead guilty to a cell phone violation it may behoove you to get a copy of your NY driving record to see what points you have, or call a traffic attorney who can obtain one for you and discuss your case with you.
