Illinois legislators recently added a new section to the Illinois Vehicle Code banning text messaging while driving. Under Section 625 ILCS 5/12-601.2, “… a person may not operate a motor vehicle on a roadway while using an electronic communication device to compose, send or read an electronic message”. The law becomes effective January 10, 2010.
Additionally, the legislature amended the Vehicle Code to bar the use of cell phones in school speed zones and construction zones. Pursuant to new language found in 625 ILCS 5/12-610.1[e], no motorist, regardless of age, may use a cell phone while driving in a school speed zone or construction zone. The amendment does carve out some exceptions. For example, it does not apply to construction workers engaged in a project in the construction zone. Additionally emergency responders, such as police, firemen and health care providers are allowed to use a cell phone for emergency purposes in a school or construction zone. The amendment also becomes effective January 10, 2010.