ASSOCIATED PRESS
08/06/2009
CHICAGO — Decrying the dangers of distracted drivers, Gov. Pat Quinn signed a bill that makes it illegal in Illinois to text message while driving.
The new law signed Thursday means motorists can get a ticket if they text message or read their messages while they're moving.
Drivers can check messages if they pull over to the side of the road or are at a standstill in traffic, for instance at a train crossing when their car is in park or neutral.
The ban doesn't prevent drivers from reading directions on a navigation system.
Quinn signed the bill at a ceremony at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago with Secretary of State Jesse White.
