New Illinois Cell Phone Ban Law

 Posted on June 15, 2012 in Car Accidents

As most of us in Illinois, and particularly the Chicago area are aware, using a cell phone while driving has become a controversial issue.  Studies have shown that distracted driving leads to an increase in automobile accidents and driver injuries and deaths, and legislators are turning to the use of cell phones while driving as a prime culprit for the recent increase in distracted driving collisions.

Numerous laws have been passed which prohibit the use of cell phones while driving.  Currently, it is illegal to text or email while driving in the State of Illinois.  Cell phone use is also prohibited in construction zones and school zones throughout the state.  And in the city of Chicago drivers can be ticketed for any use of a cell phone while driving without a hands-free device.

A new law which recently reached Governor Pat Quinn’s desk and which seems poised to be signed into law will prohibit the use of cell phones within 500 feet of an accident scene where emergency vehicles have flashing lights, except for reporting an accident.  The law would also ban the sending of video and picture messages at all times while driving.  Proponents of the new law say that banning cell phone use around accident scenes will help protect accident victims and emergency responders from being hit by distracted drivers.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident involving a distracted driver, or in any other kind of automobile collision, an experienced and dedicated Orland Park personal injury attorney like Khaled Issa can protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.  Call Khaled Issa today for a free consultation.