[ILQSO] Computers in cars in Illinois

[Don Pitchford]

I have been rather disturbed by recent discussions about using a computer while driving. I know it's tempting but don't do it. My job requires I use a computer in the car to receive service calls and e-mails while traveling around central Illinois. When we first began using this system there was a lot of discussion about when, where, and how we could open up and use our computers. According to the information we were given by legal council the answer is Never unless the car is off the road and in Park or Neutral. There are more laws than these that apply in Illinois but this should give you an idea. See the last paragraph for the consequences.  Unless you think can convince a jury a laptop computer isn't a video monitor, I don't think felony charges are worth it. 
Don, W9EBK

   (625 ILCS 5/12-604.1)
    Sec.
12-604.1. Video devices.
    (a)
A person may not operate a motor vehicle if a television receiver, a video
monitor, a television or video screen, or any other similar means of visually
displaying a television broadcast or video signal that produces entertainment
or business applications is operating and is located in the motor vehicle at
any point forward of the back of the driver's seat, or is operating and visible
to the driver while driving the motor vehicle.
 
 (b)
This Section does not apply to the following equipment, whether or not
permanently installed in a vehicle: 
        (1)
a vehicle information display; 
        (2)
a global positioning display; 
        (3)
a mapping or navigation display; 
        (4)
a visual display used to enhance or supplement the driver's view
forward, behind, or to the sides of a motor vehicle for the
purpose of maneuvering the vehicle;
  
 
 
(f) A person convicted of violating subsection (a-5) commits a Class A misdemeanor if the violation resulted in great bodily harm, permanent disability, or disfigurement to another. A person convicted of violating subsection (a-5) commits a Class 4 felony if the violation resulted in the death of another person.
(Source: P.A. 97-499, eff. 1-1-12; 98-507, eff. 1-1-14.)