SPRINGFIELD — A new law championed by State Senator Julie Morrison strengthens protections for roadside emergency workers, pedestrians and others who step in to help during traffic incidents. Building on Illinois’ existing “Move Over” law, the measure ensures people are safe at active emergency scenes — not only when vehicles are stopped.

“Too many officers, highway workers and bystanders have been injured because drivers weren’t paying attention,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “This law makes it clear that if someone is out on the road assisting at an emergency scene, you need to slow down and give them space.”

The new law comes in response to an accident in which a resident of Morrison’s district who was working for the Illinois Tollway was struck by a vehicle while assisting someone in an emergency situation. While current Scott’s Law provisions require drivers to yield and move over for stationary emergency vehicles with flashing lights, it does not extend the same protections to people in motion, such as those placing cones, directing traffic or assisting others outside their vehicles.

Senate Bill 1922 updates the law to reflect the realities of these dangerous situations. Drivers will be required to yield the right-of-way to emergency workers, pedestrians and authorized vehicles involved in an active emergency response — whether stopped or moving.

“Emergency scenes can be unpredictable, and we need to do all we can to protect those who respond,” said Morrison. “This law closes a dangerous loophole and brings another layer of safety to Illinois roadways.”

Senate Bill 1922 was signed into law Aug. 15 and takes effect Jan. 1, 2026.