On January 1, 2012, 214 new laws went into effect in the state of Illinois. Most laws are highly industry-specific, and will have no bearing on real people or the way they live their lives. But a few govern each of us directly. Others will have a direct impact on our comfort and safety, even if they do not require us to change our lies or behaviors.
For example, one new law modifies Illinois’ seatbelt rules. Now, all passengers riding in the backseat of a car in Illinois are required to wear seatbelts. Our experienced Chicago car accident attorneys know firsthand the safety benefit to seatbelt usage, and are glad to see our lawmakers recognize this important safety measure.
Likewise affecting the daily life of ordinary citizens is the new law, HB S860, allowing motorcyclists to run red lights, if they have stopped and waited a “reasonable” period for the light to change. Although this law may increase convenience for riders, expect an increase in motorcycle accidents as a result. Governor Quinn unsuccessfully attempted to veto this questionable new law (his veto was overridden).
Other new laws which may affect you include:
• Bus Driver Drug and Alcohol Testing: Under HB 147/PA 97-0466, non-CDL holder school bus drivers can be given drug and alcohol testing if there is a reasonable suspicion of use. Other specific testing changes bring state law in line with federal law.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Medical Requirements: HB 1295/PA 97-0208 again brings Illinois in line with federal law, requiring a current medical certificate before a license is issued. Our trucking accident attorneys are pleased to see this important safety improvement.
• Financial Exploitation of Elders: Our Chicago elder abuse attorneys are pleased to report that HB 1689/PA 97-0482 makes the laws against financial exploitation of Illinois elders, and disabled persons, stricter, by lowering the financial value which will result in felony charges.
• Railroad First Aid Kits: HB 1573/PA 97-0374) requires all railroads to have first aid kits on hand when employees are on board, in the event of a train accident or other mishap.
• SIDS Training: HB 2099/PA 97-0083 mandates that all licensed child care facilities who care for infants and newborns must complete training, every 3 years, on SIDS, safe sleep, and SUID.
• Nursing Home Infectious Disease Control: HB 1096/PA 97-0107 puts procedures in place to prevent the spread of infections and disease in nursing homes.
• Medical Malpractice Information: HB 1476/PA 97-0449 provides greater public access to information about pending medical malpractice complaints or reports before the Illinois medical disciplinary board, and increases reporting requirements.
• Hotel Smoke Detectors: HB 1398/PA 97-0447 requires all hotels to place a smoke detector 15 feet or less from every room used for sleeping.
• Synthetic Cannabis: Our products liability attorneys have previously written about the dangers of synthetic cannabis, often marketed as “incense.” HB 2595/PA 97-0193 makes five different generically-defined classes of synthetic cannabinoids controlled substances.
• Truck Weight Restrictions: SB 1644/PA 97-0201 preempts local rules and makes truck weight and size limits entirely a matter of state law. Our trucking accident attorneys are disappointed to see the ability of local governments to keep roads safe from dangerous, oversized trucks removed.
If you have any questions about a serious personal injury or wrongful death matter, please give us a call us at 312-527-4500 or email us at info@passenlaw.com for a complimentary consultation. You can also learn more by following us on Twitter, reviewing our LinkedIn or Avvo.com pages, and by reviewing our website.