As many may already be aware, Illinois has recently seen an increase in the number of injuries and deaths involving emergency workers at the scene of accidents. One of the most tragic occurrences happened this past December when Lt. Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department was struck and killed by a vehicle passing an emergency scene.
A personal plea from Lt. Gillen’s family prompted me to create legislation known as Scott’s Law (House Bill 180). With help from State Rep. Mike Host (R-Murphysboro), a part-time firefighter, and State Sen. Walter Dudycz (R-Chicago), a former Chicago Police officer, a proposal has been developed that will increase penalties for motorists who injure or kill a firefighter, police officer or other emergency personnel responding to an accident.
If passed, Scott’s Law will help ensure the safety of emergency roadway workers throughout Illinois.
Too frequently, carelessness around emergency scenes has been the cause of injury or death to the firefighters, police officers or other emergency personnel who risk their lives to save ours. As responsible citizens, we need to be aware that those directly involved in an accident are not the only people whose lives are at risk.
When approaching an emergency scene, we must take caution, slow down and be alert to the situation around us.
I know the people of Illinois have the utmost respect and appreciation for the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to ensure our safety. Police officers, firefighters and other emergency personnel deserve greater protection on the job.
Those wanting to show support can visit www.scottslaw.org and sign the on-line petition. Let us give back to these brave men and women by remembering and supporting Scott’s Law.
