Scott’s Law violations, also known as “Move Over” law infractions, can lead to significant driver’s license suspensions in Illinois when drivers fail to yield to emergency vehicles, often resulting in avoidable hardships for those dependent on driving. As a Joliet driver’s license reinstatement attorney with over 20 years of experience, including my role as a former Will County prosecutor, I’ve assisted clients in reinstating licenses after these suspensions by challenging the underlying citations and preparing strong cases for the Secretary of State.
At Joliet Driver’s License Reinstatement Lawyer, we specialize in traffic-related suspensions like these, ensuring compliance and advocacy to restore privileges swiftly. In this blog post, we’ll detail what constitutes a Scott’s Law suspension, the reinstatement process, potential challenges, and effective strategies for 2026. For related topics, see our guides on Preparing for a Formal Driver’s License Reinstatement Hearing in Illinois and Obtaining a Restricted Driving Permit (RDP) in Joliet .
What Constitutes a Scott’s Law Suspension in Illinois?
Scott’s Law (625 ILCS 5/11-907(c)) requires drivers to slow down and move over for stationary emergency vehicles with lights activated; violations range from petty offenses (fines up to $1,000) to Class A misdemeanors or a felony if injury occurs, triggering a 6-24 month suspension under 625 ILCS 5/6-206 for two or more convictions within 12 months. Suspensions are administrative, notified by SOS after court reporting.
In Will County, these often happen on highways like I-80 or I-55 during roadside stops. For the full statutes, refer to the Illinois Compiled Statutes on Scott’s Law .
In 2026, with increased enforcement via dashcams, suspensions for even minor failures to yield are common, but appealable if procedural errors exist.
Penalties and Collateral ConsequencesYour Attractive Heading
Suspension periods include:
- First/Second Violation: Fines, points (20-50), potential 6-month suspension for multiples.
- With Injury: Up to 2-year suspension, misdemeanor charges or felony charges, possible jail.
- RDP Eligibility: Available after 30 days with hardship proof, but restricted routes/hours.
Further impacts involve SR-22 filing, insurance premium increases, employment issues for commuters, and risks of additional charges for driving suspended. Unresolved suspensions can escalate to revocations with priors.
Strategies for Successful Reinstatement After Scott’s Law Suspension
Proven approaches emphasize resolution:
- Challenge the Citation: Contest in court for radar/dashcam flaws or lack of emergency lights to vacate the violation.
- Clear SOS Requirements: Pay fines, complete traffic school, and submit compliance.
- Petition for RDP: Document essential needs (work/medical) with affidavits for interim relief.
- Hearing Prep: Request SOS review with evidence of safe driving history.
- Prevent Recurrence: Highlight one-time error or education in petitions.
In Joliet, we’ve secured quick reinstatements by negotiating citation reductions and streamlining SOS submissions.
Why Hire a Scott’s Law Suspension Reinstatement Attorney?
These suspensions involve court and SOS coordination; delays from incomplete filings prolong hardships. As a former prosecutor, I leverage knowledge of enforcement to resolve efficiently.
If your license is suspended for a Scott’s Law violation in Illinois, contact Joliet Driver’s License Reinstatement Lawyer for a free consultation. Visit our contact page or call our Joliet office to navigate reinstatement in 2026. Safety starts with compliance—regain your road access today.