Were you recently ticketed for talking on your cellphone while driving? Isn't using a cellphone behind the wheel still legal in Illinois?
Nope. On January 1, 2014, our state had a few new traffic laws that went into effect; one of them involving your right to talk on your cellphone while driving. To avoid future legal issues, be sure you know all of the new laws—and follow them:
- Cellphone use while driving is prohibited, unless you are using a hands-free device. Drivers under age 19 cannot use cellphones while driving, including hands-free devices.
- The use of medically prescribed cannabis or being impaired by medically prescribed cannabis (marijuana) while operating a motor vehicle is prohibited.
- Transporting medically prescribed cannabis in a vehicle is prohibited unless it is stored in a tamper-evident container that the driver cannot access while driving.
- The speed limit on four-lane highways increases to 70 mph.
- If someone is found to be operating a school bus or vehicle for hire while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may be charged with Aggravated DUI.
- Proof of insurance must be provided to the Secretary of State's office upon renewal of vehicle registration.
- Drivers can now show proof of vehicle insurance electronically, such as with their cellphone or other electronic device, when required.
- Starting July 1, 2014, any first-time driver's license applicants who are 18 to 20 years old and have not completed driver education must complete a six-hour adult driver education course before obtaining a license. This course must be through a licensed Illinois commercial driving school or online driver education program.
If you were recently charged with a traffic violation in Illinois, do not ignore it and assume everything is going to be fine. Traffic violations can come with some stiff penalties that you do not want to have to deal with. Contact Polinske & Associates as soon as possible to learn about your options.
If you live in Illinois, or regularly travel through Illinois, be sure to share this article with your friends on Facebook. It is important to spread the work about these new laws so everyone is aware and can follow them accordingly.
