April 1 is designated as Illinois State Trooper Day in the State of Illinois in the State’s Commemorative Dates Act.
This week, in response to the spike in traffic fatalities, injuries, and vehicle collisions to Illinois State Troopers, Rep. Tony McCombie co-sponsored an amendment to Scott’s Law (also known as the “Move Over Law.”)
House Bill 2417, whose Chief Sponsor is Rep. Tim Butler of Springfield, amends Scott’s Law, to make failing to move over or slow down for a vehicle on the side of the road the same penalty enhancement as if one were in a construction zone.
Sadly, 17 State Troopers have been struck in the first 90 days of this year. In 2018, eight collisions occurred in 365 days. According to the Illinois State Police the common denominator is distracted driving.
Four Illinois State Troopers have been needlessly and tragically killed by distracted and reckless drivers in 2019.
“Emergency vehicles and people pulled over on the side of the road are at a higher risk now than ever before, due to distracted driving,” said Rep. McCombie. “Every week when I drive to and from Springfield, [IL,] I see people get dangerously close to cars on the side of the road. I urge drivers to pay attention and understand the risk to the people they are endangering.