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Pols Try to Curb Enthusiasm for Ped-Texting

Illinois bill would make typing while crossing street a misdemeanor

By Sam Biddle,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 29, 2008 2:07 PM CDT
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(Newser) – Though walking and texting is commonplace for many Americas, experts and politicians are considering whether the increased risk of walking into a mailbox—or oncoming traffic—is worth the convenience. A bill to make the practice illegal is working through the Illinois legislature, the Chicago Tribune reports, with advocates citing a growing number of injuries—and deaths—associated with ped-texting.

 “It's becoming more and more of a common problem with people haplessly crossing an intersection and almost killing themselves,” says one supporter of the bill, which would result in a misdemeanor charge and a $25 fine for anyone caught using a wireless device while crossing. Still, one researcher says he’s become proficient: “It's not something I could've done 10 years ago. It's a matter of practice. Now it comes automatically.”

The practice of texting on the go is coming under fire as dangerous to oneself and others.
The practice of texting on the go is coming under fire as dangerous to oneself and others.   (Getty Images)
The practice of texting on the go is coming under fire as dangerous to oneself and others.
The practice of texting on the go is coming under fire as dangerous to oneself and others.   (Getty Images)
The practice of texting on the go is coming under fire as dangerous to oneself and others.
The practice of texting on the go is coming under fire as dangerous to oneself and others.   (Getty Images)
The practice of texting on the go is coming under fire as dangerous to oneself and others.
The practice of texting on the go is coming under fire as dangerous to oneself and others.   (Getty Images)
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cell phones • safety • Illinois • texting

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