METROPOLIS, IL – As the calendar turns to a new year, it’s time for all Southern Illinois motorists to pay close attention to changes coming to the road. The new year brings a host of new laws to Illinois, and one of the most critical for public safety is the latest expansion of Scott’s Law, also known as the “Move Over” Law, taking effect on January 1, 2026.
The law is named in honor of Chicago Fire Department Lieutenant Scott Gillen, who was tragically struck and killed by a driver while assisting at a crash scene over two decades ago. The law has been continuously strengthened to better protect first responders and road workers.
What You Need to Know: The New Requirements
While the core rule remains: Slow down and move over when approaching a stationary vehicle with flashing lights—the 2026 update formalizes and strengthens the required action, especially at emergency scenes and construction zones.
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The “Move Over” Rule: You must change lanes away from any stationary authorized emergency vehicle, construction/maintenance vehicle, or any vehicle with hazard lights flashing, if it is safe and possible to do so.
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The New “Slow Down” Rule: Even if you successfully change lanes, and especially if you cannot safely change lanes, you must substantially reduce your speed and proceed with extreme caution. This ensures that even in close proximity, you have the reaction time necessary to avoid a tragedy.
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Expanded Coverage: The law explicitly mandates a speed reduction and caution when approaching any emergency scene or a construction or maintenance area or zone, not just the immediate vicinity of a stationary vehicle.
Penalties Remain Severe
The penalties for violating Scott’s Law are already very serious and remain in force:
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Violations can result in fines of up to $10,000.
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A violation that results in property damage may lead to a Class A misdemeanor.
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A violation resulting in injury or death can lead to felony charges and a suspension of driving privileges for up to two years.
The Illinois State Police and local law enforcement are urging all drivers to remember the key message: Give Them Distance.
The new year is a great time to commit to safer driving habits. Protect our first responders, tow truck drivers, and road crews by giving them the room they need to do their jobs safely.
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