Written by Crotty Staff Wednesday, 13 January 2010 00:01
The need for the legislation was brought to Senator Crotty’s attention by Mike Gill, Funeral Director at Brady Gill Funeral Home in Tinley Park, Illinois, to address the needs of both funeral directors and those participating in the procession. "It seems that more and more people disregard funeral processions as they move from the funeral home to the cemetery," said Funeral Director Mike Gill. "I would like to thank Senator Crotty for sponsoring this new law. Our hope is that these changes will make the roadways safer for both the general public and those driving in funeral processions by reducing the number of accidents that occur." Further, the new law allows for Funeral Directors or those designated by them to direct traffic during the procession.
Springfield, IL – This week, the governor signed into law a measure sponsored by Illinois State Senator Maggie Crotty (D – Oak Forest) to promote traffic safety during funeral processions. Senate Bill 1833 allows vehicles with both their headlights and hazard lights on to have the right-of-way at intersections during funeral processions.
"A large number of motorists already drive with their headlights on during the day time," Senator Crotty said. "Requiring drivers to have both their headlights and hazard lights on will better indentify these motorists as being part of the processions for their protection."
Senator Crotty Menu
Assistant Majority Leader
19th District
Years served: 1997-2002 (House); 2003 - Present (Senate)
Committee assignments: Executive, Higher Education, Executive Appointments, State Government & Veterans Affairs, Environment, Joint Committee on Administrative Rules, Joint Committee on Government Reform
Biography: Full-time state legislator; born in Chicago; graduate, Mercy High School; General Excellence Award, Illinois State Crime Commission, 2000; Legislator of the Year, Illinois Association of Park Districts, 2000; Friend of Taxpayers Award, National Taxpayers United of Illinois, 1999; Outstanding Freshman Legislator, Illinois Health Care Association, 1997; has three children.