UNINSURED DRIVERS TO FACE STIFFER PENALITES IN ILLINOIS
Michael Dean, a 25 year old high school teacher from Johnston City, was hit and killed by an uninsured driver in July 2006.
In response to Dean's tragic and untimely death, State Senator Gary Forby (D-Benton), is sponsoring House Bill 370, also known as the Michael Dean Law. The legislation will make driving without insurance a Class A Misdemeanor for drivers who cause deadly accidents. Class A Misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in prison. Currently, uninsured drivers are subject only to a $500 minimum fine and there is no additional penalty if the driver causes an accident. Incredibly, there is no penalty if the fine goes unpaid.
The Michael Dean Law has already passed the House and was endorsed 8-1 by a Senate panel last week. It will now move to the Senate floor for further debate. If approved by the full Senate, it will head to the governor's office for final action.
It is my hope that this legislation is signed into law and that it will encourage all drivers in Illinois to get insurance coverage as required by state law.
If you have been injured in a car accident, please contact The Law Offices of Jeffrey J. Kroll. We have an outstanding record of success and the knowledge, skill and experience to recover what you deserve.
