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Article updated: 4/21/2011 6:35 PM

‘It’s an epidemic’ Distracted driver opponents want tougher laws

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Organizers of a summit in Addison called for tougher laws to stop drivers from using cellphones while driving.

Jeff Knox | Staff Photographer

Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood

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In 2006, Chuck and Gloria Wilhelm lost their son Matthew, who was riding his bike and was killed by a driver who was looking for ring tones on her cellphone. They attended the Illinois Distracted Driving Summit, held at the Shriners Conference Center in Addison.

Daniel White | Staff Photographer

John Cullerton, Illinois Senate president, addresses the Illinois Distracted Driving Summit, held at the Shriners Conference Center in Addison.

Daniel White | Staff Photographer

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A moment’s thoughtlessness can equal a lifetime of suffering, victims of distracted driving testified Thursday at a summit in Addison. And they challenged legislators to enact tougher laws to prevent people from yakking on cell phones while behind the wheel.