Cops In Marlboro Begin Crackdown On Distracted Driving

MARLBORO, NJ — The Marlboro Police Department will crack down on distracted drivers during the month of April, according to police. The enforcement is part of the UDrive. UText. UPay. campaign in New Jersey.

The targeted enforcement began on Friday and will continue through April 30, as part of the national campaign against distracted driving.

Drivers caught texting or talking will be fined between $200 to $400 for a first offense and this could increase to $800 with the addition of three insurance points in subsequent violations.

Last year, the U Drive. U Text. U Pay campaign resulted in 8,014 citations for cell phone use/texting and 4,346 for careless driving, officials said. In addition, 6,151 speeding citations and 2,944 citations for seat belt violations were issued.

This year, New Jersey is one of eight states to receive federal funds specifically designated to combat driver distraction. A total of 202 law enforcement agencies received federal funds for enforcement totaling $1,600,800. The funds provided $10,500 to Marlboro.

Over 29,000 people have died nationwide since 2012 in distracted driving crashes, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.

“Distracted driving kills people – it is that simple. And these deaths are entirely preventable,” Acting Attorney General Platkin said. “As part of the Murphy Administration's focus on the safety of all New Jerseyans, we are stepping up education and enforcement efforts throughout the state and calling on drivers to do their part and remain alert and focused at all times behind the wheel.”