Texting and driving are a lethal combination.

Yet rare is the driver who hasn't seen someone talking or tapping on a cellphone while behind the wheel — sometimes at highway speed. It's a problem everywhere.

New York's state police are employing innovative techniques to nab texters and persuade drivers to text only in off-road areas. Connecticut, take note.

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Police in that state are using unmarked sport utility vehicles, which are taller than normal sedans, to give troopers a better look at drivers who text on phones in their laps. SUVs provide a better vantage point than cars usually used by troopers.

New York has labeled almost 100 rest stops, park-and-ride areas and highway pull-offs as "texting zones." Signs, mostly on interstate highways, remind motorists: "It Can Wait. Text Stop 5 Miles."

Connecticut is introducing SUVs to its state police fleet. Labeling rest stops as texting zones would also be a good move; it's a low-cost way to potentially save lives.

In 2011, distracted driving of all types resulted in more than 3,300 deaths and 387,000 injuries nationwide.

Since 2005, it has been illegal in Connecticut for drivers to use a cellphone without a hands-free device. A state law that went into effect this fall increased fines for texting and using hand-held phones while driving.

Fines are a good first step, but the legislature should consider a penalty many would find much more consequential than mere money: losing one's license, either temporarily or permanently.

The sooner we come to grips with the threat posed by distracted driving, the safer.