2010 Text Messaging Ban Encompasses More Than Just Texting

The Illinois Text Messaging Ban
The new Illinois text messaging law goes into effect on January 1st, 2010.
According to the new law:
"A person may not operate a motor vehicle on a roadway while using an electronic communication device to compose, send, or read an electronic
message"  And goes on to define an electronic message as;"Electronic message" includes, but is not limited to electronic mail, a text message, an instant message, or a command or request to access an Internet site."


Please take note of following changes in the Illinois Cell Phone Laws. This might save you some money.  It might also facilitate discussion with your children ages 19 and under. Visit this link for more information: http://www.drivinglaws.org/ill.php

As many of you know, Gov. Quinn has signed into law a set of new restrictions regarding use of cell phones while driving.  The law will take effect Jan. 1, 2010.  I encourage everyone to know what the law stipulates and to begin these safe-driving habits now.  Here are the main points:

ON JANUARY 1, 2010 IT WILL BE ILLEGAL  (in the state of Illinois) TO:

   *   send or read a text message while your car is in traffic, unless fully stopped due to a blocked roadway (such as a train crossing).  A stop sign or stoplight does NOT waive this restriction.  You must place the car in park or neutral gear, or pull over to the side of the road and stop.

   *   send or read an email message while your car is in traffic, unless fully stopped due to a blocked roadway (such as a train crossing).  A stop sign or stoplight does NOT waive this restriction.  You must place the car in park or neutral gear, or pull over to the side of the road and stop.

   *   use a cell phone in a SCHOOL or CONSTRUCTION zone without the use of a hands-free device.      In other words.......you cannot HOLD the cell phone while using it.  You must use a device (such as aBluetooth headset or ear bud) which allows you to keep both hands on the wheel.

To use such a device you must have a compatible phone and must purchase and install the hands-free device itself.   Contact your cellular provider for specific information about products and services available for your cell phone.  (And don't forget your spouse and/or kids' cell phones!)

In discussing this law with others, I've found that nearly everyone knows about the texting restriction since it was widely published and discussed in the media.  But fewer were aware that the law also applies to emails, and very few were aware of the restrictions which apply to SCHOOL and CONSTRUCTION zones.

Fines for violation of these laws will start at $75.00, with higher fines expected for the most serious infractions.  Obviously, no fine can ever compensate for injuries or loss of life.

The law does NOT apply to use of a navigation device, such as a GPS system, even if that device is used from a cell phone.

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