Committee OKs Texting-And-Biking Ban
CHICAGO (CBS) -- If you like to text while you ride your bicycle, it may cost you in Chicago. A City Council Committee has given its nod to a ban on the activity.
WBBM Political Editor Craig Dellimore reports the ordinance goes to the full City Council this week.
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The City Council's Committee on Traffic and Pedestrian Safety on Monday approved the ban on texting or using handheld cell phones while biking. Hands-free devices are fine.
Committee Chairman Margaret Laurino says she has actually seen cyclists using both hands to text while riding.
Adolfo Hernandez with the Active Transportation Alliance says the ban makes perfect sense but may be legally unnecessary. He said any responsibilities that apply to motorists also apply to a bicyclist.
"We think this is just a further clarification," he said.
Fines would range from $20 to $100 for most offenses.
