Illinois Move Over Law
The Illinois Move Over Law was created to protect first responders, road workers, and stranded drivers from being hit by passing vehicles. It requires drivers to reduce their speed and change lanes when approaching any vehicle with flashing lights that is stopped on the side of the road.
If you were hurt because someone ignored this rule, your Chicago car accident lawyer with Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC can help you understand whether a violation of this law played a role in your crash. Here we take a closer look at how the Move Over Law works and why it matters after a serious roadside accident.
What the Illinois Move Over Law Means for Drivers
This law is designed to save lives. When drivers pass too closely or too quickly near stopped vehicles, it puts roadside workers, first responders, and stranded motorists at serious risk. The Illinois Move Over Law helps reduce that risk by requiring extra caution and more space.
Scott’s Law Applies to All Vehicles with Flashing Lights
Most people think the law only applies to ambulances or police cars. In reality, the Move Over Law, also known as Scott’s Law, covers any vehicle using flashing lights. This includes tow trucks, IDOT trucks, construction crews, and even civilian drivers with hazard lights on. No matter who is pulled over, drivers are expected to respond with care.
Move Over Means More Than Just Changing Lanes
The law does not only apply when there is room to switch lanes. If traffic or road conditions make a lane change unsafe, you are still required to slow down and pass with caution. That includes lowering your speed, staying focused, and creating as much distance as possible between your vehicle and the one ahead.
Why Choose Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC After a Move Over Law Crash
Choosing the right firm matters when you are recovering from a serious roadside injury. Our team knows what signs to look for and how to build a strong claim. The Illinois Move Over Law, outlined in 625 ILCS 5/11-907, is clear about how drivers must act near flashing lights, and we take that standard seriously in every case. Here is how we can support you:
- We have successfully handled many crash cases involving Scott’s Law violations
- We understand how delivery vehicle accidents and roadside collisions are treated by insurers
- We are prepared to investigate all contributing factors and determine who was responsible
How the Move Over Law Affects Car Accident Claims
A Move Over Law violation can carry serious legal consequences beyond a simple traffic ticket. Under the state’s comparative fault rule in 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, breaking a traffic safety law can reduce the compensation you are able to recover if you are found partially at fault.
Drivers Who Break the Law May Be Assigned Fault
Speeding past flashing lights or failing to move over safely may count against you in an accident claim. These details help investigators determine how the crash happened and who should be held responsible. If the insurance company believes you share any portion of the blame, the amount you can recover may be reduced.
Emergency Workers Can Pursue Civil Claims Too
This law protects the people working near traffic, including tow truck operators, first responders, and utility crews. When a driver violates that protection and someone gets hurt, a civil claim may be possible. A Chicago personal injury lawyer can help you take legal action if you were hit while doing your job on the side of the road.
Get Help From a Car Accident Lawyer in Chicago Who Knows the Law
When a driver ignores roadside safety and injures a first responder or worker, the impact can reach every part of your life. Your Chicago car accident attorney with Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC can examine what went wrong. If you need answers about what comes next, contact us to speak with our team of attorneys who know how to handle Move Over Law claims.