Texting while driving

It is now officially illegal in New York to read, type or send a text message while driving.

The intent of the law, which went into effect Nov. 1, is sound — to prevent the unsafe use of a mobile device while operating a motor vehicle. It complements New York's ban on using handheld cell phones while driving.

These laws are designed to prevent distracted driving, which killed 5,870 people last year and injured 415,000, according to the U.S. Transportation Department.

Texting while driving is dangerous, but some people still do it. Let's see if the law reduces the unsafe practice.