Senator Kristin Corrado’s (R-40) legislation to require all inspection stickers to display ‘U Text U Drive U Pay,’ reminding motorists of the penalty associated with texting while driving, has passed the Senate Law and Public Safety Committee.

Sen. Kristin Corrado’s legislation to require inspection stickers to display ‘U Text U Drive U Pay,’ reminding motorists of the penalty associated with texting while driving, has passed the Senate Law and Public Safety Committee. (SenateNJ.com)

“Distracted driving is deadly,” Corrado said. “Texting behind the wheel frequently causes completely preventable car crashes. To reduce the number of accidents, we must increase public awareness of the steep repercussions associated with picking up one’s phone behind the wheel. This bill will hopefully remind drivers to put their phone down, so they can avoid costly tickets and save lives.”

Corrado’s legislation, S-2811, would require all motor vehicle inspection windshield stickers to remind drivers that there are financial consequence associated with texting while driving.

The penalties associated with texting and driving is $200-$400 for the first offense and $400-$600 for the second offense. A third or subsequent violation would warrant a $600-$800 ticket, three motor vehicle points, and a possible 90-day license suspension. These fees do not include court costs.

From 2011 to 2015, distracted driving contributed to more than 804,000 motor vehicle crashes in the Garden State.

“Placing a ‘U Text U Drive U Pay’ sticker in every vehicle in New Jersey will give drivers a daily reminder to keep their eyes on the road,” Corrado added. “Studies show that in the time it takes to look down at your phone, you could travel the length of a football field. Raising awareness saves lives. That’s exactly what this legislation will do.”