New law excuses drivers from handing over their license as bail for traffic offenses

Effective January 1, 2015, motorists who are pulled over and charged with traffic citations will no longer have to give up their license in exchange for the citation. Instead, motorists will be allowed to sign the citation promising to appear in court, or pay the fine.

The new law, Public Act 098-0870, is designed to reduce the inconvenience of being charged with a traffic offense. It was introduced by State Sen. Michael Noland, D-Elgin, along with State Rep. John D’Amico, D-Chicago, and signed into law by Governor Quinn on August 9, 2014.

Losing a driver’s license for even a few weeks can put a serious hamper on a person’s routine. Those whose only form of picture ID is their license to operate a motor vehicle would have trouble traveling, purchasing alcohol, or using an unsigned credit card, without their driver’s license. The new law is meant to correct that, but it still allows the Secretary of State to suspend the driving privileges of those who fail to comply with the citation.

If you, or someone you know, has been charged with a traffic offense, or if you have any questions or comments about the new law, contact the Law Offices of Laura J. Morask.


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