We do a lot of traveling and often hit toll roads and bridges. One thing that I’ve noticed over the years is that some drivers don’t pay attention when approaching or leaving a the toll area. A lot of accidents occur because people are in the wrong lane, not watching for other vehicles when pulling out after paying a toll, not having cash or EZ pass and expecting change, not paying attention to the STOP and GO signage or lights, etc.
I personally hate dealing with toll roads and bridges but they’re a part of life when driving or traveling across the country. Here are a few tips that you should keep in mind when appoaching, stopping, and leaving a toll area.
* If you drive a lot and hit toll roads often I recommend getting an EZ PASS. You can get in and out of the area a lot quicker and they designate specific lanes just for EZ PASS users.
* Signage is posted ahead of time on the different lanes available. Example: Cash Only, Exact Change, EZ PASS, etc. Get into the correct lane as soon as possible. Always turn on your turn signal and ease your way into the correct lane. Don’t step on the gas and try to get ahead or switch lanes at the last minute.
* Drop money out the window? Let it go! Don’t get out of your vehicle while in line to retrieve it. BIG SAFETY HAZZARD!
* Once you have paid the toll you’ll be given a green light or go signal. Gently pull out and be aware of other vehicles pulling out at the same time in the other lanes. Not everyone can gun it!
* When traveling on a toll bridge it’s recommended and in most places it’s the LAW to not be changing lanes while crossing the bridge. Get in the appropriate lane and stay there!
* Majority of us have common sense but…there are a few dunces out there in this world who insist on yapping on their cellphones while driving…even on a busy toll road and/or bridge. Just stop it, please stop it! That phone call can wait.
* Pay attention! The majority of toll bridges in this country are heavily traveled and busy. Limit distractions until you get across and off of the bridge.
* Follow the posted speed limit and don’t tailgate vehicles in front of you.
We see all kinds of commuters and travelers making horrible mistakes while approaching, crossing and leaving toll bridge areas. Often times these mistakes lead to accidents. Slow down and be prepared. Follow the rules of the road and get to where you’re going safely.
We have gone through toll bridges in the past.. It is much easier if you have an EZ Pass. Now many bridges are automated and they send the owner of the car a bill!
I have to say that the times I have travelled on toll roads on the East Coast have been stressful. It is overwhelming if one is not used to them. Thanks for these helpful suggestions.
Spoken like a true traveler. I wish everyone that goes thru a toll road could read this and take lessons.
We don’t have any of these where I live thank goodness. I learned a lot reading your post thanks for sharing I will keep these helpful tips in mind when traveling out of our area. We have these in the northern part of our state.