Improper Passing of an Emergency Vehicle 625 ILCS 5/11-907

Understanding Aggravated Improper Passing of an Emergency Vehicle

Aggravated improper passing of an emergency vehicle is a serious traffic offense in Illinois with severe consequences. Understanding what triggers this offense and its potential penalties can help you take the necessary legal precautions.

Understanding when improper passing becomes aggravated is crucial, as it can lead to more severe penalties that may impact your license, insurance, and even your freedom. Improper Passing of an Emergency Vehicle in violation of 625 ILCS 5/11-907(c)  becomes "aggravated" when one of the following additional factors occurs (625 ILCS 5/11-907(d)):

• The driver causes damage to another vehicle.

• The violation results in the injury or death of another person.

Penalties and Sentences

Improper passing of an emergency vehicle is classified as a business offense under 625 ILCS 5/11-907(d). The available dispositions include a conviction or conditional discharge. Court supervision is not an option. 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-80, 730 ILCS 5/5-6-1(f).

Improper passing of an emergency vehicle remains a business offense unless additional factors are present. When the violation causes property damage, injury, or death, the penalties increase as described below:

Types of Violations and Sentencing Guidelines

• Business Offense: Conviction or conditional discharge are the only available dispositions. Probation and court supervision are not available options. 730 ILCS 5/5-4.5-80, 730 ILCS 5/5-6-1(f)

• Damage to Another Vehicle: Improper passing of an emergency vehicle that causes damage to another vehicle is a Class A misdemeanor.

• Causes Injury or Death: Improper passing of an emergency vehicle that causes injury or death is a Class 4 felony.

Fines and Costs

• First Violation: Mandatory fine between $250 and $10,000. (625 ILCS 5/11-907(d))

• Second Violation: Mandatory fine between $750 and $10,000.

License Suspensions

Your license will be suspended in the following circumstances:

• Property Damage: Suspension of 90 days to 2 years if the violation caused damage to another person’s property. (625 ILCS 5/11-907(e))

• Injury: Suspension of 180 days to 2 years if the violation caused injury to another person. (625 ILCS 5/11-907(f))

• Death: Suspension of 2 years if the violation resulted in the death of another person. (625 ILCS 5/11-907(g))

Why You Need Legal Assistance

Improper passing of an emergency vehicle is a serious offense with no option for court supervision. When additional factors such as property damage, injury, or death are present, the offense becomes aggravated, leading to more severe penalties. A conviction can result in license suspension, higher insurance rates, and even jail time of up to six years.

Every case is unique, and it’s important to consult an attorney who can explore your best options. An experienced attorney will review the facts and evidence of your case to determine the best legal strategy.

Don’t let a traffic violation jeopardize your future. Contact us today. Our firm has been defending traffic tickets in the Chicagoland area for over 30 years. Call us for a free consultation if you have received a ticket in DuPage, Cook, Lake, Kane, Will, or Kendall County.