CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago City Council is to consider
a ban on bicyclists texting while riding on city streets.
The council's Traffic Safety Committee endorsed the
ban Monday. Bicyclists also couldn't talk on cell phones without a hands-free
device while riding. The full council is scheduled to consider the ban
Wednesday. If approved it would go into effect in November.
Alderman Margaret Laurino sponsored the ban and
says it "levels the playing field between motorists and bicyclists."
Chicago police could issue tickets. Fines would
cost from $20 to up to $100 for multiple offenses and $500 if there was an
offense during a traffic accident.
Chicago transportation officials say the ordinance
will address a behavior that leads to crashes. Bicycle advocate Adolfo
Hernandez also supports the measure, saying it "makes complete
sense."
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.
