Illinois Trooper Hurt in Crash on I-290
Introduction to the Incident
An Illinois State Trooper was injured when their squad car was rear-ended by a driver who failed to move over on Interstate 290 in DuPage County, authorities said.
Trooper Hurt in Crash on I-290
What We Know
The crash occurred at 8:18 a.m. on March 20 on the westbound Interstate 290 ramp to westbound Illinois 390 in Itasca. The trooper was responding to a crash at that location and had parked the squad car on the left shoulder with emergency lights activated.
Details of the Crash
The trooper was inside the vehicle when it was rear-ended by a Saturn Vue that failed to move over, according to Illinois State Police. The trooper was taken to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities said the driver of the Saturn, Teresa Muro, 44, of Glen Ellyn, was also taken to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Illinois trooper hurt in crash on I-290 in DuPage County after driver fails to move over (Illinois State Police)
Aftermath and Charges
What’s Next
Muro was cited for operating an uninsured vehicle, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, and a Scott’s Law violation, police said. So far this year, Illinois State Police have reported four crashes related to Scott’s Law, also known as the Move Over Law.
Importance of the Move Over Law
Authorities are reminding drivers to move over when approaching an emergency vehicle or any vehicle with emergency lights activated. Violators of the Move Over Law face fines ranging from $250 to $10,000 for a first offense. If the crash results in injury, the driver’s license may be suspended for six months to two years, according to state police.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the importance of adhering to the Move Over Law to ensure the safety of emergency responders and other vehicles on the road. It is crucial for drivers to be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents.
FAQs
What is the Move Over Law?
The Move Over Law, also known as Scott’s Law, requires drivers to move over or slow down when approaching an emergency vehicle or any vehicle with emergency lights activated.
What are the penalties for violating the Move Over Law?
Violators of the Move Over Law face fines ranging from $250 to $10,000 for a first offense. If the crash results in injury, the driver’s license may be suspended for six months to two years.
How can drivers stay safe on the road?
Drivers can stay safe on the road by being aware of their surroundings, following traffic laws, and taking necessary precautions to avoid accidents, such as moving over or slowing down when approaching emergency vehicles.
