Text Messaging Soon to be Illegal for Illinois Drivers
Federal statistics indicate more than 4,000 people per day are involved in a car accident because of distracted driving. Illinois personal injury lawyers report that come January 1st, 2010, a ban on text messaging for Illinois motorists will be in effect in an effort to reduce car accidents caused by distracted drivers.
Secretary of State Jesse White, stated “Common sense would tell you that when your eyes are off the road, who’s driving? It’s really bad that we have to legislate logic.” Close to two hundred new laws were recently introduced through the United States to combat distracted driving. This new law was one of about ten new laws in the state of Illinois. Personal injury lawyers offer the following information on what will be illegal while driving:
- Sending a text message
- Reading a text message
- Sending e-mail
- Downloading a ringtone
- Sending an instant message
- Using the internet
Chicago personal injury attorneys explain that you will be able to use your cell phone’s GPS device. You can text is you are reporting an accident, emergency, if traffic is stopped, or your car is in park or neutral. You may also pull over to the shoulder if you need to do any of these actions.
Any violators of this new law will face a fine of $75. A license suspension may occur if three or more violations take place in one year.
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