Illinois Distracted Driving Laws

 Posted on April 01, 2019 in Car Accidents

Distracted driving is a problem, but there is no uniform way to tackle the problem as is exemplified by the varying ways that each state attacks the distracted driving problem. Depending on what state lines you cross, the way you are punished for using a cellphone while driving a motor vehicle varies wildly.

With this in mind, let's talk about the distracted driving laws that apply here in Illinois.

Phones & Hand Held Devices

The most prominent distracted driving laws in Illinois are those pertaining to cellphones and hand held devices. Illinois law prohibits use of hand held cellphones, texting, or using electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. This includes while stopped at a stop light or sign.

• Hands free or blue tooth technology is allowed for drivers 19 years of age and over.
• City and school bus drivers are forbidden from using cellphones while they are driving.
• No driver is allowed to use their cellphone if they are in a highway construction zone or a school zone.

Even hands free devices can be a distraction. It is recommended that you pull over to the side of the road any time you wish to use your hand held device. The only time in which you are allowed to use your cellphone while driving a motor vehicle is to report an emergency situation or if the vehicle is in park.

Drowsy Driving

Lack of sleep can affect your ability to adequately operate your vehicle and in turn makes you a hazard on the rode. Make sure before you set out to drive, that you are properly rested to avoid the pitfalls of drowsiness. If you do start to feel drowsy, exercise your eyes by reading road signs, turn on the air condition, or turn up your music.

Aggressive Driving & Road Rage

Another example of distracted driving is road rage or aggressive driving. Things like speeding, running red lights, cutting off others , or tailgating can endanger and distract other drivers around you and can pose risk of accident. Aggressive driving can also cause you to be liable in the event of a car accident, making it so you wind up with huge settlement fees to pay if taken to court.

Distracted driving is a huge problem, regardless of what kinds of laws -- or even how many laws -- are on the books. We, as individual drivers, need to be safe when we get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Using a cellphone while behind the wheel is, simply put, negligent and dangerous, and obviously illegal. Drivers that participate in this behavior and cause accidents can be held liable via a personal injury lawsuit. If you've been involved in a distracted driving accident, contact our Springfield accident attorneys today for a free consultation.