Why it matters: The Illinois State Police (ISP) has introduced a groundbreaking real-time alert system to combat “Move Over” law violations. The system aims to protect emergency responders and improve overall road safety.
A technological solution to a deadly problem: Since 2019, two Illinois State Police officers have been killed and 51 injured in crashes related to drivers failing to move over for emergency vehicles. This new system leverages GPS technology and popular navigation apps to address the issue.
- The alert system integrates with Google Cloud, Waze, and soon Google Maps.
- Drivers will receive real-time notifications about nearby emergency vehicles and traffic incidents.
How it works: Spectrumlocalnews reports that when ISP troopers are engaged in traffic activities, the system sends their GPS coordinates to Google Cloud, which then transforms this data into alerts for drivers.
- Alerts cover various scenarios, including crashes, traffic stops, and roadway debris.
- Drivers see police, crash, or disabled vehicle icons on their navigation screens as they approach.
ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly emphasized the system’s importance: “In our determination to protect our troopers and prevent ‘Move Over’ crashes anyway we can, ISP partnered with the Department of Innovation & Technology and Google Public Sector on a real-time notification system that warns people of traffic issues ISP is handling on the road ahead. The advanced warning gives people time to slow down and move over, reducing the risk of a crash for both drivers and troopers.”
Scott’s Law and its impact: Also known as the “Move Over” law, Scott’s Law, passed in 2017, as reported by Statescoop, requires drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles with flashing lights.
- The law is named after Lieutenant Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department, who was struck and killed by an intoxicated driver in 2000.
- Despite the law’s existence, violations continue to pose a significant threat to emergency responders.
Recent tragedies highlight the need: Two ISP officers lost their lives in “Move Over” related incidents in 2019:
- Trooper Christopher Lambert was killed while handling a crash on I-294.
- Trooper Brooke Jones-Story died during a motor carrier safety inspection on U.S. Route 20.
A collaborative effort: The alert system is the result of a partnership between the ISP, the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology (DoIT), and Google Public Sector.
- This collaboration demonstrates the potential for public-private partnerships in addressing critical safety issues.
- The integration with popular navigation apps ensures widespread adoption and effectiveness.
Looking ahead: As the system rolls out, officials are optimistic about its potential to significantly reduce “Move Over” violations and related accidents.
- The ISP will monitor the system’s effectiveness and gather data on its impact.
- If successful, this model could be adopted by other states facing similar challenges.
This innovative approach to road safety represents a significant step forward in leveraging technology to protect both law enforcement officers and the general public. As the system is implemented and refined, it has the potential to save lives and set a new standard for traffic safety initiatives across the country.