I understand that, Mike. I'm just saying that it's extremely difficult to compete against an addiction that is mobile, easy access and legal, at least in most states
.. ya mean like food.....
To an extent, you could almost compare media addiction to eating food. I do draw the line in that you need to eat to live but you can live without smart phones and the internet.
It's too bad that most states don't have the same law as New York does. The law reads something like this:
If you get caught using a phone while driving the penalty is:
1st offense is a $50 to $200 ticket and 5 points against the driving record
2nd offense within 18 months is a $50 to $250 ticket and 5 points against the driving record
3rd offense within 18 months is a $50 to $450 ticket and 5 points against the driving record
All offenses have a surcharge of up to $93
And here, it gets more interesting:
What is the Driver Violation Point System and how does it work?The Driver Violation Point System gives the New York State DMV a way to identify and take action against high risk drivers. The DMV assigns points for certain traffic violations. If you get 11 points in an 18-month period, your driver license may be suspended.
Penalties for probationary and junior drivers with a Class DJ or MJ driver license or learner permitEffective November 1, 2014, the first conviction of a cell phone use or texting violation will result in a suspension of the driver license or permit for 120 days.
A second conviction within six months of the restoration of the license or permit (after the 120 day suspension is terminated) will result in
- a revocation of at least one year of a probationary license, or
- a revocation of at least one year for a Class DJ or MJ driver license or learner permit
Driver Responsibility AssessmentIf you receive 6 or more points on your New York State driving record in 18 months, you must pay a
Driver Responsibility Assessment fee.
The amount depends on the type of violation or the total number of points on your driving record.
- If you are convicted of an alcohol or drugged driving-related offense or if you refuse to take a chemical test, the annual assessment is $250. The minimum amount that you must pay each year is the annual assessment. The total assessment for the three years is $750.
- If you receive 6 points on your driver record for violations committed during a period of 18 months, the annual assessment is $100. The minimum amount that you must pay each year is the annual assessment. The total assessment for the three years is $300. If you receive more than 6 points on your driver record during a period of 18 months, the annual assessment is $25 for each point in addition to the original six points. The minimum amount that you must pay each year is the annual assessment. The total assessment for the three years is $75 for each point in addition to the original 6 points.