The Illinois Tollway recently launched its Zero Weather Road Patrols to assist drivers stranded in their cars during the first deep freeze of the 2010-2011 winter season.  The Zero Weather Road Patrols are implemented when temperatures and/or wind chills drop below zero. 

The 24-hour service dedicates hourly patrols in search of motorists stranded in disabled vehicles or in response to calls that come in to *999 motorist assistance, Illinois Tollway dispatch or Illinois State Police District 15.

Cars or trucks with empty fuel tanks, flat tires, overheated radiators or mechanical problems are just some of the most frequent problems reported among the motorists needing help.  

The Zero Weather Road Patrols consist of crew cab trucks equipped with arrow boards for directing traffic around accidents or stranded vehicles and enough room to accommodate up to five passengers if motorists need to be transported to a Tollway maintenance garage, toll plaza or Tollway oasis while service is obtained.   

Winter Weather Travel Tips

The Tollway offers the following travel tips to keep safe during extreme temperatures:

• Stranded motorists should turn on their emergency lights and remain in their vehicles until help arrives. 
• Cell phone users should call *999 motorist assistance for roadway assistance or to report other motorists pulled over on the side of the road. 
• Before calling, try to note the nearest milepost marker - a green and white sign that displays a number, direction of travel and route designation shield - so the stranded motorist can be quickly located.