New Jersey launches campaign against distracted drivers

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - New Jersey has launched its annual campaign against distracted drivers, particularly those who text while driving.

Authorities say 207 police departments and law enforcement agencies are getting more than $1 million in grants overall for additional patrols to issue tickets. The distracted driving fines range between $200 to $400 for a first offense and can lead to license suspensions beyond a third offense.

The targeted enforcement campaign began Monday and runs through April 21, coinciding with National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

During last year's enforcement period, officers issued more than 13,000 tickets for cell phone use while driving and nearly 6,000 tickets for careless driving. Police also issued more than 6,500 speeding tickets and more than 5,700 seat belt citations.