NOT JUST TEXTING WHILE DRIVING:
In 2014, using a phone without a hands-free device became illegal. Basically, from 2010-2014, you could use your cellphone while driving, you just couldn’t text. Once 2014 hit, it became illegal to operate any “electronic communication device” while driving. Illinois law defines an “electronic communication device” as “an electronic device, including but not limited to a hand-held wireless telephone, hand-held personal digital assistant, or a portable or mobile computer, but does not include a global positioning system or navigation system or a device that is physically or electronically integrated into the motor vehicle.”
NEW LAW
Starting July 1, 2019, if you are caught using your phone while driving, you’re no longer going to get a simple petty offense your first time. You’re getting a moving violation. As the new statute clearly states “A violation of this Section is an offense against traffic regulations governing the movement of vehicles.” On top of that, you get a $75 fine. That jumps up to $100 for a second offense, $125 for a third, and $150 for all future violations. Exceptions: Texting and driving and/or using a smartphone while driving doesn’t apply in the following situations:- A law enforcement officer or operator of an emergency vehicle performing official duties
- A driver using an electronic device to report an emergency
- A driver using a phone in hands-free mode, which can include the use of a headset or headphones
- A driver using an electronic device while parked on the shoulder of a roadway