Many people like to vape while driving. Whether it’s to relax, stay awake, or just because they enjoy it, vaping in the car has become a common habit. But, in Illinois, is it legal to vape and drive at the same time?
If you’re wondering whether it’s against the law or if it could get you into trouble, this article will help you understand the rules clearly.
The Illinois Law on Vaping and Driving
As of now, in Illinois, there is no specific law that directly bans vaping while driving. Unlike alcohol, which has clear rules about driving under the influence, vaping does not have laws that restrict you from using e-cigarettes or vapes while behind the wheel.
However, this doesn’t mean vaping is completely without consequences when driving.
Vaping and Distracted Driving
Even though there’s no direct ban on vaping while driving in Illinois, vaping could be considered a form of distracted driving. This is because when you vape, you may be taking your attention away from the road, even for a few seconds.
Distracted driving in Illinois is illegal, and the law defines distracted driving as any activity that takes your attention away from the road. This includes things like texting, talking on the phone, or even eating and drinking while driving.
So, if you are vaping and it distracts you enough to cause a mistake on the road, like running a red light or swerving into another lane, you could be fined or even face more serious charges if your actions lead to an accident.
How Vaping Can Lead to Legal Trouble
Here are a few ways vaping can cause issues while driving:
Distraction: If you are too focused on getting your vape out, adjusting it, or handling it, it can distract you from driving. This might cause you to miss important road signs or signals, or even put you at risk of accidents.
Cloud of Smoke: If you’re vaping and creating a big cloud of smoke or vapor, it can block your vision, especially if it’s a really thick cloud. This could make it harder for you to see the road, other cars, pedestrians, or any potential danger.
Impaired Judgment: While vaping itself doesn’t impair your judgment the same way alcohol does, if you’re already under the influence of alcohol or drugs, vaping can add to your distraction. So, even if you’re not drinking or using drugs, combining these activities with vaping might make things worse.
Vaping and Underage Drivers
While there’s no law against vaping and driving for adults, it’s important to note that minors (under 21 years old) are not allowed to vape at all in Illinois. If a minor is caught vaping while driving, they could face fines or legal consequences related to underage vaping.
Additionally, if a minor is caught vaping while driving, it could be considered an example of distracted driving, and they could get fined for both vaping and not paying attention to the road.
When Could Vaping Get You Into More Serious Trouble?
Vaping becomes a bigger problem when it’s involved in an accident or if you endanger others on the road. If you cause a car accident while vaping and the authorities believe that vaping contributed to your distraction, you could face serious legal consequences.
These consequences could include:
Fines: Depending on the situation, you may face a fine for distracted driving.
License Points: If you’re found to be driving distracted and it leads to an accident, points could be added to your driving record, which can increase your insurance rates.
Criminal Charges: In extreme cases where the distraction leads to more serious consequences, such as injury or death, you could face criminal charges.
While there is no specific law that makes it illegal to vape and drive in Illinois, it’s important to understand that vaping can still be considered a form of distracted driving. It can take your attention away from the road and create a dangerous situation.
If you’re caught being distracted while vaping, you could face fines or even more serious consequences, especially if your actions lead to an accident. It’s always best to stay focused on the road, avoid distractions, and drive safely.
