State lawmakers reconsider emergency traffic legislation

SPRINGFIELD -- When Illinois lawmakers approved "Scott's Law" in 2002, they intended to protect emergency personnel at roadside crash sites by strictly increasing penalties for motorists who failed to change lanes to avoid emergency personnel or slow down.

But in practice, motorists have complained that the harsh fines have been handed down against anyone passing even the most trivial of traffic stops.

Lawmakers attempted to clarify their intentions Wednesday by altering Scott's Law to add that it should apply only to those drivers who cause property damage or death or injury to another person.

"This does correct the issues," said state Rep. Sid Mathias, a Buffalo Grove Republican who pushed the measure in the Illinois House. "I've had a number of phone calls to my office. This makes sure the original intent of this much-needed law is put into effect."

Scott's Law was created after Lt. Scott Gillen, a Chicago firefighter, was killed when a vehicle hit him during an emergency response on the Dan Ryan Expressway.

In 2001, lawmakers and former Lt. Gov. Corinne Wood pushed the stronger penalties, even if no accident occurs. The fines can range from $100 to $10,000, and driving privileges can be suspended.

But lawmakers said Wednesday that many drivers don't know about Scott's Law, let alone its myriad provisions, including its application to construction vehicles with rotating flashing lights as well as emergency vehicles like ambulances, fire trucks and state police.

The plan to further distinguish the law passed the Illinois House 111-0. It now advances to the governor's desk.