Steps You Need to Take When Involved in a Tollway Accident

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Car Accidents

Every Illinois driver knows just how challenging it can be to navigate the state’s tollway system. The traffic alone is overwhelming, and when you add in the highway structures and merging lanes, the complexities of the system can be downright intimidating. Car accidents on the tollway are especially common due to the fact that vehicles are operating at high speeds - a treacherous combination when paired with that high-volume traffic and those merging lanes. What to Do When You Experience an Accident 1. Assess the scene for injuries - No matter what, your first course of action following the initial crash should be to look for signs of any injuries. If someone is hurt, call 911 right away. You can worry about everything else once you are sure help is on the way. 2. Find the nearest toll plaza or tollway maintenance facility - If there are no injuries and the vehicles are drivable, ask a tollway employee to contact a trooper and have them let them know that you need a crash report. 3. Move your car - If your vehicle is driveable, be sure to move your car from the roadway as soon as possible. Waiting until a trooper arrives to move your car can create a hazard for everyone else driving on the tollway. 4. Exchange information with the other drivers  - Exchange basic information, such as your names, phone numbers, and driver’s license numbers. Also, swap your VIN (vehicle identification numbers) along with the make and model of each car. Don’t forget to exchange your insurance information as well. 5. Obtain a copy of the crash report - You will need to get a copy of the crash report from the Illinois State Police. You can submit a written request for this or contact the Illinois State Police District by phone. 6. Follow up - If you are having difficulty obtaining a crash report with all the necessary details, contact the police district again by phone or in person. It also does not hurt to follow up with your insurance agency as well to ensure you understand the next steps and how your policy will be carried out in the aftermath.

7. Consult with an attorney - If you or any of your passengers were injured, it is crucial to contact a qualified Lake County car accident attorney. Proper legal representation can ensure that your rights are protected and your questions and concerns are addressed. If you have been in a tollway car accident, call Salvi & Maher, LLP today at 847-662-3303 for a personal consultation.