PUT AWAY THAT PHONE!: NEW ILLINOIS TRAFFIC LAWS ON TEXTING AND PHONING

While Illinois has not completely banned cell phones while driving, new laws are limiting when and where you can use them. The new laws target hand-held devices.

As of January 1, 2013, you may not use a hand-held device within 500 feet of an emergency scene, such as where lights are flashing. You must also beware if you see signs of an approaching construction or maintenance speed zone. However, the new laws do make an exception for voice-activated devices, and you can text or phone while stopped in traffic if your transmission is in park or neutral.

Also as of January 1, 2013, drivers of commercial vehicles may not text or use a hand-held phone while driving, even when stuck in traffic or at a light. You must pull off the road to use your device.

One exception to these laws is that you may use your device to contact emergency personnel or law enforcement, even while driving.

In most cases, a violation of the new law is a petty offense, punishable by a fine. Commercial driver’s license holders should also beware that a conviction could hurt their driving privileges.

If you have questions about this or another related criminal or traffic matter, please contact Matt Keenan at 847-568-0160 or email matt@mattkeenanlaw.com.
Sources: 625 Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) 5/11-605.1, 625 ILCS 5/12-610.1, 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2

(Besides Skokie, Matt Keenan also serves the communities of Arlington Heights, Chicago, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Evanston, Glenview, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Northbrook, Park Ridge, Rolling Meadows, Wilmette and Winnetka.)