On March 5, 2022, a two-vehicle crash occurred near Windsor Road in Champaign, Illinois leaving none injured. Later, a tow truck operator was removing debris from the area when a vehicle driven by a 16-year-old struck the operator, leaving him to be taken to Carle Hospital with life-threatening injuries.
The Champaign Police Department is adamant that drivers respect Scotts Law or the law that requires drivers who are approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle to proceed with caution and lessen their speed. This law is extremely important to know and abide by when driving because it adds a layer of protection to the operators of emergency vehicles, such as the tow truck operator in this case. Abiding by this law can ensure that the people tending to our roadways are protected.
When driving through construction, it is important to consider the ways in which to keep others safe and follow Scotts Law. When approaching stopped vehicles,
- Slow your speed. Slowing your speed to 10-15 miles per hour under the speed limit is the safest speed when approaching an emergency vehicle.
- Move your vehicle to the other side of the road. When driving, give enough space to the emergency vehicle by switching to the lane next to you, if possible. If it is not possible due to oncoming traffic, hug the center line when passing these vehicles.
- Drive with caution when passing the emergency vehicle. Driving with caution means driving without distractions and with caution of the other vehicles on the road.
Violations of Scotts Law can be serious offenses. Emergency vehicles are meant to help people in need. When drivers abuse their power when passing an emergency vehicle, it causes dangerous situations for everyone involved. Not only is the driver of the emergency vehicle at risk, but everyone in the car passing is at risk as well. Instances, where emergency vehicles are involved, are the most at-risk instances because these vehicles can be large and take up much of the roadway.
If you or a loved one is an emergency vehicle operator and has recently been injured, or worse, due to another vehicle not abiding by Scotts Law, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering, both physical and emotional. The attorneys at Spiros Law, P.C. are extremely competent and knowledgeable in Scotts Law and car crash cases and will fight for the well-being of their clients day in and day out. Contact a Spiros Law, P.C. lawyer today to set up your free consultation by calling (217) 328-2828 or visiting one of our three offices located in Champaign, Danville, and Kankakee.
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