ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, ILL. (Dec. 13, 2013) -- The Illinois legislature and governor have some new laws in store for all people driving in Illinois that take effect on Jan. 1. These new laws change current laws and make significant changes to all vehicle drivers and passengers. These changes are the most significant changes in my opinion.
First, cell phones and driving: Maybe you may have heard of this change, effective Jan. 1, drivers cannot use hand held cell phones in Illinois. The first fine is $75; subsequent violations add $25 to the fine, with a maximum fine of $150. However, there is a way to still talk. It is permissible to use a "Bluetooth" or other hands free device. Further it is legal to make hand held phone calls in an emergency. It is now a Class A misdemeanor (fine of $2,500 and less than a year in jail) if you injure someone while talking on a hand held cell phone. If you kill someone talking on a hand held cell phone it is a Class 4 felony (fine up to $25,000 and jail of not less than one year and but no more than three years).
Littering from your vehicle: This one is a significant change in the penalties for a specific type of littering. While it is now illegal to throw cigarette butts out of your car after Jan. 1, it will become a Class B misdemeanor (fine not exceeding $1,500), the second offense is a Class A misdemeanor (fine also not exceeding $1,500), third and subsequent convictions are Class 4 felonies (fine up to $25,000 and jail of not less than one year but no more than three years). Perhaps if you do not have an ashtray in your vehicle, you most likely will need one to avoid the severe penalties.
Speed limit in rural areas to be raised: Rural Highways speed limit to be raised to 70 mph. Currently, the speed limits are 55 mph in urban areas, and 65 in rural areas. However, Cook and its Collar counties; Will, DuPage, Kane, McHenry and Lake counties can opt out and still keep the 65 mph speed limit in rural areas.
Seat belt requirements for adults in backseats: Requires adult passengers in the back seat of a vehicle to wear a seat belt and also requires those younger than 18-years-old riding in a taxicab for school related purposes to wear a seat belt.
Related Links:
Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles
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