If you are not well versed with the latest laws, Illinois cell phone law 2020 may sound like a foreign concept to you. Fortunately, the laws have remained pretty much unchanged throughout the years, despite the times-changing technology we use on a daily basis. With new technologies coming out every other day, the laws can change quite often.
One of the first laws to change was a prohibition against using a cell phone while driving. This was implemented in 1998 with a requirement that only hands-free devices could be used while driving. Even using hands-free devices such as Bluetooth headsets or MP3 players is still considered a distraction for most drivers.
Second, the use of cell phones has increased significantly over the years. While this may have increased safety by making it possible for a cell phone owner to keep an eye on the road at all times, the increased use of cell phones has also increased the risk of accidents. Cell phone use has led many drivers to become impatient drivers. This is one of the biggest contributors to accidents in most cases.
Finally, cell phone use has led to many more accidents than in previous years. As technology advances, it is possible to keep a cell phone away from the driver at all times, but there is no substitute for common sense and a well-timed hand signal. Many states have put in place laws requiring drivers to keep their cell phones out of the hand while they are driving, so the risk of accident is greatly reduced.
Illinois cell phone law 2020 covers many of these issues. Although it does not specifically address the use of mobile computers such as iPads, it does include some of the same concerns. The purpose of this article is to educate you about the law so you can stay compliant as you drive in Illinois.
It is illegal to use any cell phones while driving, including hands-free devices. It is also illegal to talk on your cell phone when you are on the road. You will be charged with a misdemeanor if you fail to use a hands free device.
It is illegal to use cell phones to read, send or receive text messages. or send or receive emails while operating a vehicle, even though there are exceptions that can save a driver from getting arrested for violating this rule.
You will also be charged with a misdemeanor for text messaging other people while driving in Illinois. You can be arrested for misdemeanor charges for anything more serious than text messaging, however. In fact, it is highly illegal to read text messages or send or emails on cell phones without having permission to do so.
Most police officers now consider all cell phone use to be a violation of the law. When a police officer pulls over a driver, the officer can search the phone for text messages, videos, or photographs of the arrest. If the cell phone contains evidence of these violations, the suspect will be arrested.
It is illegal for drivers to take photos of other drivers using their cell phones. Although many states allow drivers to take pictures of other drivers using their cell phones, Illinois is one of the few states that prohibit drivers from taking photographs of other drivers’ license plates. Although it may seem like a minor violation, it can result in a suspended license, hefty fines, and possibly a prison sentence.
Some states such as Wisconsin allow drivers to use their cell phones in school and at work. However, Illinois still prohibits this activity because these activities have the potential to be distracting.
All these offenses are part of Illinois cell phone law 2020, which was enacted by the state in response to the increase in traffic accidents that were the result of distracted driving. Speeding is also a concern. Many drivers are willing to pay high fines for speeding violations, which increases the likelihood of an accident, but having a cell phone or other portable communication device can make them extremely fast to react to a potential hazard.
