CHICAGO – Assistant Majority Leader Tony Munoz (D-Chicago) is urging drivers to follow Scott’s Law after six more Illinois State Police troopers were hit while responding to roadside incidents this week, marking 10 crashes caused by drivers who didn’t slow down and move over when they saw a roadside first responder in 2021.

“As a former police officer, I know the life-threatening situations law enforcement officers face on the job. Drivers have the power to reduce that risk for officers and first responders addressing incidents on the side of the road,” Munoz said. “If you see flashing lights, slow down and move over—it’s the law, and it might just save a life.”

According to the Illinois State Police, three Scott’s Law-related collisions occurred in just one day. Six of the 10 crashes have left troopers with injuries, and one in Will County on Feb. 15 left a trooper seriously injured.

In 2019, Munoz sponsored Senate Bill 1862 to strengthen Scott’s Law, spurred by the deaths of Illinois State Police troopers Christopher Lambert and Brooke Jones-Story, who were both struck and killed that year by drivers who did not follow Scott’s Law.

“Our law enforcement officers and their families are always on my mind, especially when snow and ice make road conditions more dangerous,” Munoz said. “I wish the injured troopers a full recovery, and I urge drivers to follow Scott’s Law to prevent more tragedies like this one.”

When approaching an emergency vehicle or any vehicle with their hazard lights activated, drivers are required to slow down and change lanes when it is safe to do so. A motorist who violates Scott’s Law could face a fine of up to $10,000 and a driver’s license suspension of up to two years. For more information on Scott’s Law visit the Illinois State Police website.