Officials: Don't Text And Drive

Glen Cove Local officials are warning the public about talking on the phone and texting while driving. The warning comes as school is about to start.

Glen Cove police will be actively looking for distracted motorists. The use of portable electronic devices while driving includes, viewing, playing games, composing or sending text, reading the device, and using the device to send e-mails. Texting requires visual, manual and cognitive attention by the driver and is by far the most dangerous form of distracted driving, officials say.

The penalty for those convicted of texting while driving is currently five driver violation points. The Glen Cove Court will also impose a monetary fine of $150 plus $88.00 in surcharges to those convicted. Those with a Junior driver’s license or learner’s permit will lose their license or permit for at least 60 days upon conviction. The National Highway Traffic Administration in a recent survey state that 10 percent off all drivers under the age of 20 who were involved in fatal car crashes were reported as “distracted” at the time of the accident. The best way to end distracted driving is to educate all drivers on the danger in poses.

Photo: Lieutenant Ortiz, School Board President Richard Maccarone, Superintendent of Schools Maria Rianna, Mayor Reginald Spinello, Chief William Whitton, Deputy Chief Robert MacDonald, Lieutenant John Nagle, Lieutenant Patrick Wright.