New Illinois Law Targets Texting While Driving

Because of its convenience, many people are addicted to sending text messages on their cell phones. It is easier to send a quick message to your children or spouse that you are coming home from work. However, if you are an Illinois driver who can't stop texting even when you are behind the wheel, now might be the time to stop. Illinois is currently targeting chronic texters in an effort to increase safety on the roads.

Illinois is the 17th state in the nation to ban texting while driving.

While it is still save to talk on your cell phone in most cases, Illinois officials want drivers to keep at least one hand on the wheel. If you read or feel the need to send a text message while on the road, it can cost you big. Fines for distracted driving violations range from $75 to a whopping $200. Texting while moving through a school zone can take an even bigger hit on a driver's wallet. The only time it is safe to read a text is if the vehicle is stopped or is on the side of the road.

Drivers should also note that if they have been pulled over by an officer, they are allowed to look through a phone to see if the driver has been texting while travelling on the road.

Research has revealed that drivers who are distracted while driving because of texting on their cell phones have a 23 percent greater chance of causing a car accident or almost getting into one.

The State of Illinois has also banned the use of using a cell phone while moving through a school zone or a construction zone. However, people working in construction zones and emergency responders are still allowed to use the devices in those zones.