Gov. Pat Quinn Signs Text-ban Law for Drivers

Gov. Pat Quinn on Thursday signed into law a measure that that will ban Illinois motorists from sending text messages while driving in an effort to cut down on distracted driving.

Photo: Gov. Pat Quinn Signs Text-ban Law for Drivers

"It's really bad that we have to legislate logic," said Secretary of State Jesse White, who pushed the measure. "Common sense would tell you that when your eyes are off the road, who's driving?" The Chicago Tribune reports.

"We all know we live in a fast-paced world. We're all busy, a lot of times maybe we get too busy and we get too distracted and distracted driving can cause a safety threat to many innocent people in our society and in our state," Quinn said at the ceremony at Northeastern Illinois University.

But motorists don't have to go cold turkey, NBC Chicago reports.

Meanwhile, the law takes effect Jan. 1. Here's what will be legal and illegal come New Year's Day while driving:

Can'ts:

*Can’t send a text message.

*Can't read a text message.

*Can’t send an e-mail.

*Can’t Web surf.

*Can’t download ringtones.

*Can’t send an instant message.

Cans:

*Can continue to use your GPS device.

*Can continue to use your cell phone's GPS device.

*Can text if traffic is stopped and your car is in park or neutral.

*Can text if you pull over onto shoulder.

*Can text if you’re reporting an accident or emergency.

More background:

The new law allows police to stop and ticket drivers. The fine is $75. Three such tickets in a year and you could lose your license.

Quinn also signed a measure that would ban drivers from talking on their cell phones while in a school or construction zone unless they are using a hands-free device, The Chicago Tribune reports.