Driver Hits Illinois State Police Squad Car on Route 53

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An Illinois State Police squad car was struck and damaged on Route 53 in Chicago's northwest suburbs early Sunday morning. The trooper was assisting a stranded driver when a black Dodge Ram pickup truck failed to slow down and hit the rear driver's side of the squad car, as well as the car of the stranded driver. The Dodge driver then fled the scene, but the trooper and stranded driver were uninjured.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing issue of drivers failing to follow Scott's Law, also known as the Move Over Law, which requires motorists to change lanes or slow down when approaching any emergency vehicle or vehicle with flashing lights. Violations of this law can result in hefty fines and license suspensions, underscoring the importance of driver awareness and safety around first responders.

The details

According to state police, the incident occurred at 3:46 a.m. on Sunday, February 8, 2026, on Illinois 53 northbound at Algonquin Road, on the border of Rolling Meadows and Schaumburg. The trooper's squad car emergency lights were activated as the officer was assisting a stranded driver on the right shoulder. A black Dodge Ram pickup truck failed to slow down and struck the rear driver's side of the squad car, as well as the car of the stranded driver. The Dodge continued north on Route 53 for about 200 yards before stopping due to the damage, at which point the driver fled the scene.

• The incident occurred at 3:46 a.m. on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

What’s next

State police are continuing to investigate the incident and search for the Dodge Ram driver who fled the scene.