IDOT-Endorsed Legislation Now in Effect

Three pieces of legislation supported by the Illinois Department of Transportation aimed at reducing cell phone use while driving and clearing lanes of traffic immediately following crashes are now in effect as of January 1.

Senate Bill 2488 prohibits cell phone use in construction or maintenance speed zones regardless of the speed limit in those zones.  Motorists can use cell phones in voice-operated mode, which includes the use of a headset or cell phones used with single button activation.

House Bill 5101 prohibits texting or using a hand-held cell phone while driving a commercial motor vehicle and makes this a serious traffic violation.  Previously, texting was prohibited but cell phones were permitted.

Senate Bill 3409 allows the driver of a vehicle involved in a motor vehicle crash resulting only in damage to a vehicle to move the vehicle off the highway to the nearest safe location.  The locations for the driver to consider are an exit ramp shoulder, a frontage road, the nearest suitable cross street, or other locations that will not obstruct traffic.  The law states the driver should remain at that location until the requirements are fulfilled concerning the duty to give information and render aid.

More information is available at www.trafficsafety.illinois.gov.