In June 2011, the Village of Antioch passed an ordinance to limit cell phone usage to hand-free devices. This ordinance does not ban cell phone use; rather it regulates use and requires hands-free equipment. The ordinance provides that no person shall operate a motor vehicle using a mobile telephone except while using a hands-free device or maintaining the vehicle in a stationary and parked position with the transmission in PARK or NEUTRAL. The only other exception to the hands-free rule is to call 911 or other emergency agencies. Enforcement of the ordinance will be gradual, with a 90 day grace period during which time officers will issue verbal warnings to violators. The purpose of this ordinance is to raise awareness and educate the public on the safety issues associated with distracted driving. For more information on this ordinance, click on our link to the village website.
Chief Somerville
