In an effort to curb highway fatalities and protect construction workers, police officers, and other first responders, Governor JB Pritzker has signed legislation into law to increase penalties against those who violate Scott’s Law as it is commonly referred too. Scott’s Law requires you to move over when there is an accident or if a police officer has a vehicle pulled over. If you can’t move over then you need to significantly slow your speed.  Governor Pritzker did not mince words about how important this law is and why he supported the rise in penalties.

At least 22 stationary vehicles have been hit this year in Illinois resulting in two state trooper deaths. Governor Pritzker reiterated that if you see someone on the side of the road, to move over. 

Scott’s Law increases the minimum fine to $250 for the first violation and up to $750 for the second and more. Criminal penalties will increase to a Class A misdemeanor with up to one year in jail.  If there is damage to another vehicle, it’s a class 4 felony, and punishable by up to three years in jail. The stricter penalties go into effect immediately. There will also be an increase in penalties in construction zones especially if a worker is hit. That law takes effect in 2020.