Stephens Issues a Reminder on Scott’s Law: Move Over, Slow Down

In light of the three Scott's Law related crashes so far this year, State Representative Brad Stephens is reminding residents across his 20th Legislative District just how important it is to observe the law: move over and slow down!

Scott's Law is a mandatory move over law designed to keep emergency personnel safe on Illinois roadways. The law was enacted in 2002 and was named in remembrance of 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.

On January 1, 2026, Scott's Law was expanded to mandate drivers move over and slow down when approaching any authorized emergency vehicle-including police, fire, ambulance, tow trucks, and road maintenance vehicles-with flashing lights whether they are stationary or not.

A first offense of Scott's Law can warrant a minimum $200 fine. The second such offense earns a $750 fine, and penalties can increase depending on circumstances.

Representative Brad Stephens is urging constituents to take care when driving on roadways and do their part to keep first responders and emergency vehicles safe.