Chicago Police Department (CPD) Practice

The definition of a "Driver" in traffic laws is fundamentally centered around the concept of control over the vehicle. A driver is specifically identified as someone who is physically in control of the vehicle, meaning they have the ability to operate it and make decisions that affect its movement. This definition emphasizes the active role of the individual in the operation of the vehicle at that moment.

For instance, someone who is simply waiting at a bus stop does not have any control or engagement with a vehicle; therefore, they do not fit the definition of a driver. Similarly, ownership of a vehicle does not automatically confer the designation of a driver, as a person can own a vehicle without being in a position to operate it. Lastly, possessing a learner's permit alone does not define a person as a driver unless they are actively behind the wheel with the requisite supervision or are independently operating the vehicle. This understanding is crucial for applications in legal contexts concerning liability, responsibility, and traffic violations.