Hurley Reminds Drivers of Safe Driving Habits Ahead of Holidays, Scott’s Law Day

CHICAGO – To encourage drivers to do their part to keep first responders safe on the roadways ahead of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, state Rep. Fran Hurley, D-Chicago, is reminding drivers of safe driving habits on Scott’s Law Day, which is designated as Dec. 23.

“The winter holidays are among the most unsafe time for first responders and other drivers on the roadways as Christmas and New Year’s often have high instances of drunk driving,” said Hurley. “We can all do our part to keep each other our first responders safe by using a designated sober driver, and being mindful to slow down and move over when first responders are assisting with emergencies.”

Scott’s Law, also known as the Move Over Law, requires that drivers slow down, change lanes, proceed with caution and be prepared to stop when emergency vehicles or other vehicles have their emergency lights activated. Scott’s Law is named in honor of Chicago Fire Department Lt. Scott Gillen, who was struck and killed by a driver while on the scene of a vehicle collision. Hurley recently passed a new law to strengthen Scott’s Law by increasing penalties who violate the law while using a handheld cell phone and created the Move Over Early Warning Task Force.

“Taking time to observe the importance of Scott’s Law goes hand-in-hand with keeping the roads and highways safe, including not getting behind the wheel of a car if you are under the influence,” continued Hurley. “Scott’s Law Day is an opportunity to emphasize the importance of safe driving practices and following other rules of the road to keep our highways for our families and our first responders.”