By: Richard L. Smith
New Jersey is ramping up efforts to combat distracted driving with a month-long enforcement campaign that aims to keep drivers focused and save lives.
According to information released by the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, the campaign — titled “Put the Phone Away or Pay” — runs from April 1 through April 30. 
The initiative funds increased police patrols across the state, targeting drivers who text, make calls, or engage in other distracting behaviors behind the wheel.
The effort comes as preliminary data from 2023 shows that nearly half (48%) of drivers involved in crashes in New Jersey were distracted at the time, leading to 160 deaths and more than 1,400 serious injuries.
“Staying focused from the moment you start the engine is essential to preventing tragedy,” said Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.
“By combining public education with strong enforcement, we can make our roads safer for everyone.”
To support this initiative, the Division of Highway Traffic Safety (HTS) awarded more than $1 million in grants to 158 law enforcement agencies across 19 counties.
An additional $211,820 went to the New Jersey State Police to fund enforcement on major highways including the Turnpike and Garden State Parkway.
Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety, Michael J. Rizol, Jr., stressed the importance of vigilance behind the wheel, especially during National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
“Every second on the road requires a driver’s full attention,” he said. “We’re committed to providing our officers the tools to remove distracted drivers from New Jersey’s roads.”
In 2024, similar efforts led to over 9,000 citations for illegal cell phone use and nearly 4,800 for careless driving.
Using a handheld device while driving is illegal in New Jersey. First-time offenders can face fines of $200 to $400, while repeat violations can result in fines up to $800, plus three insurance points.
Drivers are urged to stay alert and keep their phones out of reach — or risk paying the price.