Is It Illegal to Vape and Drive in Illinois? Here’s What the Law Says

Posted by Carens December 25, 2024
Is It Illegal to Vape and Drive in Illinois Here's What the Law Says

As of January 1, 2024, Illinois has implemented new laws regarding vaping and driving, but they do not specifically prohibit vaping while driving. However, there are some important restrictions to be aware of:

Vaping While Driving

While vaping itself is not explicitly illegal while driving in Illinois, the state has introduced new laws that restrict certain activities related to electronic devices while operating a vehicle:

  1. Video Calls and Social Media: Drivers are no longer permitted to answer video calls, watch videos, or use social media while driving.
  2. Livestreaming: Livestreaming while driving is now prohibited.

These laws aim to reduce distracted driving and improve road safety. While they don’t directly address vaping, they could potentially apply if a driver is using a vaping device that has video or social media capabilities.

Other Vaping Restrictions

Although not directly related to driving, it’s important to note that Illinois has implemented other vaping restrictions that could affect drivers:

  1. Indoor Public Spaces: As of January 1, 2024, vaping is banned in indoor public spaces and within 15 feet of public entrances.
  2. Smoking with Minors: It is illegal to smoke in a motor vehicle when a person under 18 years of age is present, regardless of whether the windows are open.
  3. While this law specifically mentions “smoke,” it could potentially be interpreted to include vaping.

Enforcement and Penalties

  • Violations of the new distracted driving laws could result in fines.
  • For smoking in a vehicle with a minor present, the fine is up to $100 for a first offense and up to $250 for subsequent offenses.

While vaping and driving is not explicitly illegal in Illinois, drivers should be aware of these new laws and restrictions to avoid potential legal issues and ensure road safety.

Source

  1. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/illinois-indoor-vaping-ban-electronic-cigarettes/
  2. https://www.wcbu.org/local-news/2023-08-03/new-illinois-law-prohibits-e-cigarette-use-in-public-places
  3. https://news.wttw.com/2024/01/02/new-illinois-laws-you-need-know-2024-indoor-vape-ban-paid-time-doxing-and-more
  4. https://dph.illinois.gov/resource-center/news/2023/december/e-cigarette-use-in-indoor-public-places-to-be-banned-in-illinois.html
  5. https://blockclubchicago.org/2024/01/01/changes-to-illinois-laws-as-of-january-1/