SPRINGFIELD – After 10 Illinois State Police troopers being involved in Scott’s Law-related crashes since the beginning of 2021, officials are reminding drivers the importance to move over for stopped emergency vehicles. Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White emphasized that Scott’s Law is designed to protect law enforcement and emergency responders who are stopped on the side of roadways.
“I am issuing a call to action,” said White. “Pay attention while driving. If you see a stopped emergency vehicle on the side of the road, reduce speed and change lanes if possible.”
“Scott’s Law is critical to keeping our first responders safe as they heroically serve us on our roadways,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Especially now, as we continue to experience extreme winter weather, it is imperative that drivers slow down and move over as they approach a vehicle with their hazard lights on. I’m praying for our Illinois State Police troopers who have been injured in the line of duty in recent days and imploring all Illinoisans to drive safely and follow the law.”
Motorists convicted of violating the Move Over Law face a minimum fine of $250 up to $10,000, and the offense goes on their driving record. Driving privileges can be suspended for 24 months in the event of a fatality and six months for a crash causing personal injury. Scott’s Law is named after Chicago Fire Lieutenant Scott Gillen who was struck and killed Dec. 23, 2000 while responding to a traffic crash.
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