State increases undercover highway patrol to curb texting while driving

Gov. Andrew Cuomo warned New York drivers yesterday that if they don't keep their hands on the wheel this summer, they will pay the consequences.

State Police will begin a summer crackdown today on drivers using their cellphones, with an increased number of undercover officers patrolling highways.

Cuomo, who signed a law this week that increased the penalties for driving while texting, said too many motorists are dying because of the multi-tasking, and the increased police presence will send a message that can reverse the trend.

"It has become such a daily use of our behavior," Cuomo said of cellphone use. "It has to stop when you get in the car."