New proof of insurance law puzzling some police

A new Illinois law that allows motorists to provide proof of insurance using their smartphones is puzzling some police departments.

The Springfield bureau of Lee Enterprises reports (http://bit.ly/1dCsclR ) some law enforcement agencies are still trying to figure out how the new law will work.

With a paper proof of insurance card, motorists typically let the officer take the document to their squad car to fill out paperwork.

But drivers may be reluctant to hand over a smartphone. And police say phones could run out of battery or lock up while the officer has it.

Still, Mattoon police Chief Jeff Branson says the law should be a welcome convenience for motorists who forget to carry a new insurance card. He says he doesn’t believe the law will cause any problems.