Word on the Street — New Cell Phone Laws

The State of Illinois will soon be enacting a new law regarding the use of cell phones while driving. While texting and driving is already illegal in Illinois, this law, signed by Governor Pat Quinn in August, will make it illegal to talk on your phone while you drive. The use of hands-free devices will, however, still be allowed. The law takes effect on Jan 1 of next year.

 

 

Steven Eldridge, 34, of Pekin

“I think it’s a great idea, just from the simple fact that with both hands [on the wheel] you’re obviously going to be paying attention…Hands on the wheel, eyes on the road.”

 

 

 

 

Elizabeth Brunner, 19, of Peoria

“I guess overall I support the law, but I think they need to stipulate very clearly what is and is not okay…Does it mean hands-free is okay in a construction zone because that’s a little different.”

 

 

 

 

Ashley Wages, 20, of Wyoming

“I do agree to an extent that it should be illegal, but then again whether you make it illegal or it’s not illegal, people are still going to do it regardless. I think it’s hard to say talking on the phone should be illegal.”

 

 

 

Theodore Johnson, 21, of Peoria

“I think it is a great idea also. Too many people are just causing too many accidents… They are pretty much putting themselves and other people in danger on the road if they are worrying about who is on the other line.”

 

 

 

Zack Gilbert, 22, of Deer Creek

“There’s still distraction involvement no matter what. You’re still not completely focused on the road …[Even] if you’re having a conversation with someone in the car with you, …your still capable of distraction”

 

 

 

Madu Pangemanan, 20, of Peoria

“I support it because that is one of the main causes of accidents in today’s modern society…Is that call really [so] important that you [are willing to] cause someone else’s death or maybe even your own….Make it illegal.”