The Illinois State Police would like drivers to be aware of a new law that is coming into effect on January 1st that is intended to improve roadway safety. Scott’s Law, also commonly known as the “Move Over” law requires motorists to slow down or change lanes when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle with it’s lights activated. Trooper Sean Ramsey with the Illinois State Police District 9 Office says changes in the law means the law now applies to any vehicle on the side of the road with their hazards on.
Another part of the law that has already been in effect for the past year are penalties when it comes to excessive speeding in a school or work zone. Ramsey said how if you decide to speed through a work or school zone, you could be facing possible jail time.
There’s also been changes to possible penalties for repeat citations of driving without insurance. Trooper Ramsey explained that if you get a second citation, you will lose your vehicle until you can provide proof of insurance.
The Illinois State Police Director Leo P. Schmitz commented saying how the ISP’s goal for 2017 is to reduce serious traffic crashes through education and enforcement. If you’d like a complete list of all of the new public acts going into effect for the new year, you can view them online at the Illinois General Assembly web site.
