Rock Falls, Ill. – On Thursday morning, a truck driver was cited for violating the Move Over Law after his vehicle struck an Illinois State Police (ISP) squad car that was stopped on the right shoulder of IL‑40 north of U.S. 30.
Incident details
At approximately 10:10 a.m., a state trooper was conducting routine inspections of commercial trucks using portable scales. The trooper’s squad car was parked on the shoulder with its emergency lights activated while the officer prepared to exit the vehicle.
According to a media release from the Illinois State Police, Benjamin Vogel, 24, of Camanche, approached the stopped squad car and failed to move over as required by law. As the trooper opened the door, Vogel’s truck collided with the driver’s side door of the police vehicle.
Legal response
Police officials issued Vogel a citation for “improper passing of a stationary emergency vehicle causing property damage to another.” The citation reflects the state’s Move Over Law, which mandates that drivers either change lanes or reduce speed when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with its lights flashing.
Fortunately, no one was injured in the collision. The squad car sustained only minor damage to its door, and the incident did not result in any traffic disruptions.
Context of Move Over Law enforcement
This crash marks the 13th Move Over Law‑related incident reported by ISP this year. While two troopers have been injured in prior Move Over violations, this particular event resulted solely in property damage.
State officials continue to emphasize the importance of the law, urging drivers to remain vigilant and give emergency responders the space they need to work safely. The ISP has increased outreach efforts, including public service announcements and on‑site education during traffic stops, to reduce future violations.
Community impact
Rock Falls residents and local businesses rely on the safe flow of commercial traffic along IL‑40, a key corridor for freight movement in the region. Incidents like this underscore the need for continued driver education and strict enforcement of traffic safety statutes.
Authorities encourage anyone who witnesses a similar situation to report it promptly, helping to protect both first‑responders and the traveling public.
What’s next?
Vogel will appear before a local magistrate to address the citation. Depending on the outcome, penalties may include a fine and points on his driver’s license. The Illinois State Police will maintain its presence on IL‑40 to monitor compliance with the Move Over Law and to ensure the safety of its officers and the traveling public.
Original reporting: KWQC TV6 Davenport (local) — read the source article.
