Accident Recovery Following a Toll Road Accident
Toll roads play a significant role in helping people travel efficiently throughout Pennsylvania and beyond. While these roads are designed for fast and convenient travel, accidents on toll roads present unique legal and logistical challenges, especially when it comes to recovering financial compensation.
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a toll road accident alone. With legal support from a Bucks County personal injury attorney, you can focus on healing while your attorney fights for the compensation you deserve.
Unique Challenges After a Toll Road Collision
Accidents on toll roads often involve high speeds and complicated jurisdictional issues. Unlike local roads, toll roads are typically managed by a state agency rather than a city or township. If poor maintenance, unclear signage, or dangerous road conditions contributed to your accident, pursuing a claim could involve going up against a government entity, which requires navigating strict rules and shorter legal deadlines.
In addition, multi-vehicle accidents are more common on toll roads due to the volume and speed of traffic. When several parties are involved, determining fault can be difficult. Insurance companies may dispute liability, and if a commercial truck or out-of-state driver was involved, you may find yourself dealing with unfamiliar insurers and legal systems.
Tips for Safer Toll Road Travel
The primary toll road affecting Bucks County is the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276), which runs along the southern part of the county near Bensalem and connects with I-95, providing access to Philadelphia, New Jersey, and points west. Additionally, the I-95 corridor includes tolled express lanes and interchanges, especially near the New Jersey border, where the Delaware River Bridge connects Bucks County to the Garden State.
Drivers may also encounter tolls on bridges or other express routes when commuting to nearby urban centers, such as Philadelphia or Trenton. While these toll roads are built for convenience, it’s important to drive with extra caution due to higher speeds and frequent merges. Here are a few ways to reduce your risk of an accident:
- Stay alert in EZPass lanes. Sudden stops or lane changes near toll plazas are a common cause of crashes.
- Keep a safe distance. High speeds reduce reaction time, so avoid tailgating.
- Watch for merging vehicles. Toll roads often have short or poorly marked entrance ramps.
- Don’t speed. Exceeding the posted limit is tempting on wide, open toll roads, but traveling at an excessive speed can be incredibly dangerous.
- Plan your route. Know when you’ll encounter tolls and adjust your speed well before reaching booths or split lanes.
If you’ve been injured in a toll road accident, a skilled Bucks County personal injury attorney can help you identify all responsible parties and pursue compensation. This may include filing claims against other drivers, trucking companies, or public authorities, each requiring different legal strategies.
Are you struggling to access the financial relief you need following a collision on a toll road? Bring the specifics of your case to the attention of the attorneys at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. To pave a smooth path forward, call 215-515-2604 for a confidential consultation.
