Illinois Proposes Statewide Ban On Texting While Biking

By aaroncynic in News on Feb 3, 2012 7:20PM

In October, the Chicago City Council approved a ban on texting while biking. Even though we still struggle with the logistical gymnastics of how one can navigate the roads while sharing status updates on a phone, Illinois lawmakers decided it's enough of a problem to warrant statewide legislation. WXII12 reports State Rep. Kelly Cassidy filed a bill that would prohibit cyclists from sending texts while peddling down the road.

The legislation is very similar to the Chicago ordinance, and it would still allow cyclists to use hands free devices and text message while pulled off to the side of the road. The bill has received support from both the Active Transportation Alliance and the League of Illinois Bicyclists.

Cassidy told the St. Louis Post Dispatch the “prevalent problem” of texting while cycling was “stunning for me to even contemplate” and said “We're just doing anything we can to make transportation more accessible and safer.”