Illinois Legislature Considering Stricter Penalties for Texting Drivers

 Posted on June 22, 2018 in Traffic Offenses

It should come as no surprise that driving with any type of distraction is dangerous to you and everyone else on the roadways. One of the biggest distractions plaguing drivers is the number of drivers who are texting and driving. Concluded in a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, texting drivers can be six times more dangerous thandrivers operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Because of the dangerous nature of texting and driving, and other types of distracted driving, Illinois lawmakers have imposed a bill that would make texting and driving offenses more serious, according to My Stateline. In 2014, Illinois passed a law that made first time texting and driving offenses a nonmoving violation. House Bill 4846 changes this law and makes texting and driving a moving offense. The bill passed in the House and moved to the Illinois Senate for consideration and vote. Bill 4846 was also passed by the Senate.

With the offense classification changing from a nonmoving violation to a moving violation, the penalties for such offense have increased. In Illinois, moving violations result in various fines and court costs. However, a person who received three moving violations in a 12-month period risks havinghis or herlicense suspended.

Distracted Driving in Illinois

Distracted driving is a problemacross the country. In Illinois, it is not just illegal to text and drive. Any use of cell phones or electronic communications is prohibited while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers over the age of 19 are allowed to use hands-free or Bluetooth enabled devices, but should be wary of the dangers that still exist. Even without physically touching a cell phone or handheld device, a driver is likely takinghis or her eyes off of the road and puttinghimself or herself at increased risks of accidents.

Minimize Distractions

Illinois urges drivers to minimize distractions while they drive.Consider the followingtips to help prevent an accident and keep you safe:

• Do not use a cell phone or handheld device;
• Only operate a vehicle if you are not drowsy or overly tired;
• Do not overly populate your vehicle; and.
• Pull over to take a phone call or adjust the GPS

We Are Here to Help You

Even knowing the dangers associated with texting a driving, there are many drivers who still violate the law. With the harsher classification of a moving violation and the risk of a license suspension, contacting a skilled traffic attorney could benefit you immensely.

Passionate Rolling Meadows defense attorney Christopher M. Cosley is here to help you with tickets for traffic offenses, including texting and driving. Your driving record is important. As such, you need an attorney who understands that importance and fights to get you the best possible outcome under the circumstances. Contact us today for a consultation.

Sources:

http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/traffic_safety/distracted.html

http://www.mystateline.com/news/new-illinois-legislation-proposes-tougher-penalties-for-texting-and-driving/1128952249