HB3772: FORMER POLICE VEH-SPOT LAMPS

Legislative Summary

Amends the Illinois Vehicle Code. In provisions concerning the administrative adjudication of violations of traffic regulations, automated traffic law violations, and automated speed enforcement system violations, provides that a person shall not be liable for violations, fees, fines, or penalties during the period in which the motor vehicle was reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency as stolen or hijacked. In provisions concerning automated traffic law violations, automated speed enforcement systems, and automated railroad crossing enforcement systems, provides that a hearing officer may consider, as a defense to a violation, that the motor vehicle was hijacked before the violation occurred and not under the control of or in the possession of the owner or lessee at the time of the violation. In provisions concerning administrative fees and procedures for impounding vehicles for specified violations, provides that no administrative fees shall be imposed on the registered owner or the agents of that owner if the motor vehicle was stolen or hijacked at the time the vehicle was impounded. Provides that to demonstrate that the motor vehicle was hijacked or stolen at the time the vehicle was impounded, the owner or the agents of the owner or lessee must submit proof that a report concerning the motor vehicle was filed with a law enforcement agency in a timely manner. Provides that a hearing officer shall consider as a defense to the vehicle impoundment that the motor vehicle was stolen or hijacked at the time the vehicle was impounded. Provides that if an administrative hearing officer finds that a county or municipality impounded a motor vehicle that was stolen or hijacked at the time the vehicle was impounded, the county or municipality shall refund any administrative fees already paid by the registered owner or lessee of the vehicle. Makes corresponding changes. Amends the Crime Victims Compensation Act. Limits the amount of towing and storage fees that may be reimbursed to a maximum of $1,000. Provides that an application for compensation shall set out the amount of benefits, payments, or awards, if any, payable under vehicle or towing insurance. Provides that, in order to be reimbursed, the applicant must show that he or she has exhausted the benefits reasonably available under full vehicle coverage insurance (including towing insurance, if available).