Scotts Law Ticket Lawyer in Chicago
If you’re facing a Scott’s Law ticket in the Chicagoland area, we can help you understand your options and fight for the best possible outcome.
Scott’s Law, often called the “Move Over Law” by police, judges, and attorneys, is an Illinois statute designed to protect first responders and emergency personnel on the roadway. The law is named after Lt. Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department, who tragically lost his life on December 23, 2000, when an impaired driver sped through an active accident scene and struck him. In response, Illinois strengthened the rules requiring drivers to slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles to help keep those who protect our communities safe.
Failure to Yield to an Emergency Vehicle
A common situation that leads to a Scott’s Law ticket looks something like this: you are driving in the far-left or far-right lane and notice an emergency vehicle stopped on the shoulder with its lights flashing. Illinois law requires you to take three specific actions when approaching any emergency or roadside assistance vehicle:
- Slow down
- Move over to create distance, if it is safe to do so
- Continue driving with caution
If you fail to complete all three steps, you can be cited for Failure to Yield to an Emergency Vehicle under Scott’s Law. For example, you might change lanes but forget to reduce your speed, or slow down but fail to shift lanes even though traffic conditions allow it.
Because the law depends heavily on context, such as whether changing lanes was actually safe in the moment, an experienced traffic ticket lawyer can help present your side of the story and challenge the officer’s interpretation of the incident.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving the Chicagoland area, call (312) 344-3340.
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Frequently asked questions
Find answers to the most common questions drivers have about Scott’s Law violations and how a traffic ticket lawyer can help protect your license and your future.
What are the penalties for a first-time Scott’s Law violation in Illinois?
A first offense carries a minimum fine of $250, plus an additional $250 to the Scott’s Law Fund, along with mandatory court costs that usually total around $250. This means the minimum amount owed is typically more than $750, and the court can impose fines up to $10,000 depending on the situation.
What happens if I get a second Scott’s Law ticket?
A second offense comes with a minimum fine of $750, an additional $250 for the Scott’s Law Fund, and court costs. In most counties, this adds up to more than $1,250. The judge can also order much higher fines based on the severity of the violation.
Can a Scott’s Law violation affect my driver’s license?
Yes, a Scott’s Law violation can affect your drivers license. If you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the violation occurred and caused damage, injury, or death, you may face additional license suspensions. These range from 90 days for property damage to two years if the incident involves a fatality.
Do I need a lawyer for a Scott’s Law ticket in Illinois?
Hiring an attorney is strongly recommended because Scott’s Law carries some of the most serious penalties of any traffic offense in the state. A traffic ticket lawyer can challenge the evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, and work to protect your driving privileges and reduce your fines.
Is it worth fighting a Scott’s Law ticket in court?
Yes, it is worth fighting a Scotts Law ticket in court. Because the fines are high and the consequences can impact your ability to drive, disputing the ticket or reviewing your options with an experienced traffic attorney is often in your best interest. Many drivers are able to achieve better outcomes with legal representation. Kovacevic Law will carefully review your case, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your rights and driving privileges.