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January 22, 2019
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August 28, 2019
Scott’s Law = MOVE OVER!
Since the enactment of “Scott’s Law” in 2002, named in honor of Chicago firefighter Lt. Scott Gillen, who was killed by a passing motorist, far too many drivers remain unaware of the law or choose to ignore it. What is Scott’s Law?
The Illinois Vehicle Code, 625 ILCS 5/11-907(c), a/k/a “Scott’s Law,” provides (in summary):
When approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle using audible or visual signals (flashing lights), which includes police vehicles, ambulances, firetrucks and tow trucks, the approaching driver must proceed with due caution and yield the right-of-way by making a full lane change, not adjacent to the police or emergency vehicle, if possible. If changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe, the driver must proceed with due caution and reduce speed.
In short, when you see an emergency vehicle on the side of the road with flashing lights, MOVE OVER or SLOW DOWN. Failure to do so can be deadly! In 2019 alone, fourteen (14) Illinois State Police officers or their vehicles have been struck in roadside crashes, resulting in two deaths.
Violations of “Scott’s Law” can include fines up to $10,000 and driver’s license suspensions ranging from 90 days to two years if property damage, personal injury or death results. As a driver, I respect and admire the work of emergency personnel and want to keep them safe.
As a lawyer who routinely represents drivers charged with traffic law violations, Greg Martucci has an in-depth knowledge of traffic laws and defenses to protect your legal rights and driving privileges. Call Martucci Law today at 630-980-8333 to schedule your free initial office consultation. Learn how we can help you with any pending DUI or traffic charges. And visit our Blog, updated regularly, to learn about changes in Illinois laws that may affect you.