New Legislation Pending for Driving with Google Glass

 Posted on December 26, 2013 in Traffic Offenses

Google Glass is being tested by a select number of people in anticipation of a roll out in 2014. The concept of device is that it is a smartphone display that is worn on your face and looks like a pair of glasses. It allows you to take pictures, view social media, make phone calls and even get directions by the sound of your voice. While it is not for sale to the general public, legislators in Delaware, New Jersey and West Virginia have introduced legislation that seeks to ban driving while wearing Google Glass frames.

Lawmakers in Springfield are also interested in stopping distracted driving on the streets of Illinois. Certain laws are already in place to accomplish this gial. Currently, it is illegal to text while operating a vehicle. Another law which will be effective in 2014 will outlaw the use of any handheld device behind the wheel.

Illinois State Senator Ira Silverstein, a Democratic representative from Chicago, recently filed a new bill that extends the law banning handheld devices. Silverstein said that using these new Google Glass is “another way people will be distracted. People’s attention to the road should not be interrupted.”

Detractors of this legislation point to the possible use of Google Glass which gives you turn by turn directions similar to a GPS device. Even if your eye would drift to the small screen on your face, it is no different than checking other instruments in your car.

But the debate centers on the capabilities of Google Glass which has the ability to cause distractions to drivers with Facebook or YouTube videos. The author of a similar bill in West Virginia, state Delegate Gary Howell, said that “it is incredible technology, but it doesn’t belong on the road. There’s no way law enforcement officers can tell whether you’re watching a cat video or using your GPS system.”

If you have been accused of committing a crime behind the wheel, then it is important to seek legal representation. Receiving too many moving violations can even result in the suspension of your license. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Rolling Meadows who can protect your rights.