People v. Snyder

The State appeals from the dismissal of a charge based on a traffic offense; the trial court granted the dismissal for want of prosecution. On October 10, 1978, the defendant was ticketed for failing to reduce speed to avoid an accident in violation of section 11 — 601(a) of the Illinois Vehicle Code (Ill. Rev. Stat. 1977, ch. 95J½, par. 11 — 601(a)). The defendant pleaded not guilty, and arraignment was set for November 21, 1978. When the defendant failed to appear on that day, the cause was rescheduled for December 19,1978. At that time, the defendant appeared with counsel and was prepared…