Illinois State Police Director Brendan Kelly says the agency will conduct statewide enforcement details over the next several weeks to aggressively enforce violations of the Move Over Law, also known as Scott’s Law, and all distracted driving violations.
The action comes in the aftermath of ten State Police cars being struck so far this year by motorists who did not move over. Troopers were hurt in five of those crashes, including one that occurred on I-57 south of Mt. Vernon in Jefferson County.
Illinois’ Move Over Law requires all drivers to change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, including highway maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights and any stationary vehicle with their hazard lights activated. If changing lanes is impossible or unsafe, drivers are required to proceed with due caution, reduce speed and leave a safe distance until safely passing the stationary vehicle.
Illinois law also prohibits drivers from reading, sending or receiving text massages or communication and from browsing the internet. They are also prohibited from using handheld electronic communication devices. Drivers under 19 are prohibited from using any cell phones, including hands free. All drivers are prohibited from using all cell phones in school speed zones and work zones. It is also illegal to use
a cell phone or take photos or videos on wireless devices when driving within 500 feet of an emergency scene.
A Move Over Law violation has a minimum fine of no less than $250. If the violation results in injury to another person, the violator’s driver’s license will be suspended for a mandatory period of anywhere between six months and two years. Distracted driving violations carry a fine up to $75 for a first offense. A person convicted of a distracted violation that results in serious injury or death will face penalties of not less than three years and up to six years in prison.
