×
Menu
Search

Recent News

Home
Blog
Traffic Accidents
Bus Accidents
Texting and driving penalties increase in Illinois
LOOKING FOR A SPECIFIC POST? SELECT YOUR CRITERIA BELOW.

Categories

Archives

October 15, 2019

Texting and driving penalties increase in Illinois

Texting and driving penalties increase in Illinois

You already know texting behind the wheel dramatically increases the risk of an auto accident. Illinois is cracking down on distracted drivers with a new law on smartphone use that took effect on July 1, 2019. Texting and driving is now charged as a moving violation and carries increased penalties.  

Read on to learn more about why the state implemented this new regulation and how it will impact drivers. 

Prohibited behaviors 

The new law prohibits any use of a handheld mobile device while driving, including but not limited to texting, navigating and playing music with your smartphone. Laptops, tablets and personal digital assistants also fall under the list of disallowed devices for drivers.  

If you are parked on the side of the road or contacting emergency personnel, however, you have not committed a moving violation. The state also permits hands-free phone use with an integrated Bluetooth system. If you are sitting in traffic or at a red light, you must put your car in neutral or park if you want to use your device.  

Penalties for distracted driving 

The first offense of this kind carries a $75 fine, and the fine increases by $25 for each subsequent offense. Drivers convicted of three or more moving violations in a single year face a one-year license suspension. Previously, law enforcement would give a driver a warning for his or her first offense and levy a fine for subsequent offenses. 

Importance of the new law 

Although the dangers of distracted driving are well-known, less stringent penalties have not been effective in thwarting this risky behavior. The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 600,000 drivers are using their devices behind the wheel at any given moment. The agency also estimates that driving while distracted is six times more dangerous than drunk driving.  

When you get behind the wheel, put your phone in the backseat or otherwise out of reach. Invest in a hands-free device if you frequently need to navigate from your phone. 

Share This Post
facebooktwitterLinkedininstagram

RELATED NEWS

In the world of personal injury law, negligence is a pivotal element that dictates the outcome of each case. However, proving negligence is no simple task; it requires diligence, knowledge, and a thorough understanding of…

Read More

Navigating the complexities of personal injury cases can pose challenges, but understanding the extent of your entitled damages can be even more arduous. At Clark Frost Zucchi, we strive to illuminate the intricacies of personal…

Read More

When navigating a personal injury case, understanding the concept of liability is crucial. Liability, in the context of personal injury law, determines who bears the financial responsibility for the damages incurred due to an accident…

Read More
(815) 962-6144

Call To Schedule An Free No Obligation Case Evaluation.

testi-img
testi-img

Sylvia B.

Kevin Frost is the best lawyer. He’s knowledgeable and always kept me informed. The staff is great as well.

Sylvia B.|
Google

Kathy N.

Kevin worked above and beyond for us.. He was honest & straight forward and our case was finished before the time we thought.

Kathy N.|
Google

Gary A.

This law firm helped us through a wrongful death suit for the loss of our daughter as a result of an auto accident. The case was handled professionally and quicker than we were expecting, thank you for your help, Kevin...

Gary A.|
Google
Award
Award
Award
Award
Award
Award
Award
GET IN TOUCH WITH US

Contact Us Today

"*" indicates required fields