22-02-2025
ISP trooper dodges two crashes in seconds
COLLINSVILLE, Ill. – Video footage of an Illinois State Trooper dodging two crashes is being shared by Illinois State Police to remind drivers about the reason behind Move Over laws.
Even with his 43 years of experience, Collinsville Fire Chief John Bailot found the video difficult to watch. But despite his disbelief, the chief is not surprised by the mindset of drivers.
'People are in a hurry, and they don't pay attention,' Bailot said.
The Illinois State Police announced that two drivers face multiple charges for the incident that occurred in the Chicago area in 2024. The failure in moving over was included in charges for both cases.
'It happened so quickly, I didn't even see the first car,' said Ryan Kneedler, owner of B & K Towing in Collinsville, when viewing the video.
ISP trooper dodges two crashes in seconds
Kneedler hopes the video serves as a reminder to drivers about the narrow margin of safety for emergency responders on the side of the road.
'(Drivers) don't realize how close they are,' Kneedler said. 'If they happen to be looking down or not paying attention at that moment, it's dangerous.'
The Illinois State Police reported that 27 crashes into trooper vehicles last year involved move-over violations.
'You could save the life of a first responder, but you could also save your own life. If you run into the back of a fire truck that's not moving, that could be disastrous,' Bailot said.
Missouri and Illinois' Move Over laws require drivers to slow down and, when safe, move over for emergency vehicles.
Scott's Law in Illinois calls for a minimum fine of $250 for violators and a mandatory license suspension of at least six months if an innocent person is injured.
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