SCOTT'S LAW
Last week, we tragically lost an ISP Trooper in an accident on I294. In the wake of this tragedy, it is a good time to review Scott's Law.
Scott's Law was named after Lieutenant Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department who was struck and killed by an intoxicated driver while assisting at a crash on the Dan Ryan Expressway.
Scott's Law Chapter (625 of the Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) 5/11-907(c)), mandates that vehicles slow down, move over, and change lanes if possible, when they are approaching an emergency vehicle, or any vehicle with its hazard lights activated.
Violating Scott's Law is a business offense punishable by a fine of not less than $100 or more than $10,000. If violating Scott's Law results in damage to the property of another person your driving privileges can be suspended for a fixed period of not less than 90 days and not more than one year. If a violation results in injury to another person, your driving privileges can be suspended for a fixed period of not less than 180 days and not more than 2 years. If a violation results in the death of another person, the person's driving privileges shall be suspended for 2 years.
Often times, motorists are either unaware of the law or unsure with the correct procedures to follow when approaching flashing lights. If charged with violating Scott's Law, my goal is to minimize the potential consequences and protect your driving privileges. If you have been charged with Failure to Yield to an Emergency Vehicle, I can help protect your driving privileges. I handle all traffic and CDL related cases in DuPage County. Contact me today to discuss your case at (630) 202-1932.
