Adjusting to the customs and regulations of a new country can be overwhelming, especially when you’re focused on starting your new role in healthcare.
This quick guide is here to help you hit the road with confidence, covering what you need to know about using roads that require a fee — commonly called toll roads.
Toll Road Basics
As you travel across the United States, you’ll likely come across toll roads and bridges.
These are especially common in the northeastern states, where higher population density makes toll roads a frequent choice, but you’ll find them in many other parts of the country as well.
Toll routes are often more direct and convenient, and they can include bridges or tunnels connecting different states.
Toll Roads, Bridges & Tunnels
Toll roads exist to fund the maintenance and improvement of highways, expressways, bridges, and tunnels.
Some drivers see tolls as an extra burden, arguing it’s like paying twice since they already contribute through taxes.
Others believe tolls are a practical way to keep roads in good shape, since the money collected goes directly toward essential road repairs and infrastructure projects.
Paying for Tolls
Toll fees depend on geographic region, vehicle type, payment method, and how much of the road is used.
Nationally, toll fees average about six cents per mile of roadway driven. Bridges and tunnels are the most expensive toll roads for passenger vehicles.
Initially, toll roads had toll booths at the entrances and exits of the roadway. A driver would take a ticket when they entered the roadway and give it to a different booth operator when they exited. Then they would be charged a specific fee that had to be paid immediately using cash.
The New Toll Payment Methods
Though some toll roads still accept cash for payment, most tolls are now paid electronically or by camera surveillance and mail. Some states have passes that can be purchased and used across state lines, including E-ZPass, SunPass, and FasTrak.
Electronic passes include a physical receiver device that you leave inside the car by usually adhering it to the dashboard or windshield.
When on a toll road, drivers with passes either go through an express lane with overhead sensors or use a designated toll booth lane where passes are accepted.
The pass will hold a pre-paid amount or can be connected to your bank account through automatic payment. Those without passes can pay with cash, if available, or a camera will catch their license plate, and the bill will be sent to the vehicle’s owner.
Pay On Time
Always pay your toll fees as soon as possible. If not, the costs, fees, and penalties will pile up and you will pay much more than if you just paid the toll initially.
Stay Safe
Tolls and toll booths usually exist on densely populated roads, tunnels, and bridges. Follow the reduced speed signs when approaching a toll booth or lane. Not only will it increase your safety, but reducing your speed also guarantees that the sensors will detect your electronic pass.
Always be aware of the route you will take before starting your journey. Ask yourself if the route has tolls and how you plan on paying. Consider which exit ramp to take once the toll has been paid. This will most certainly minimize anxiety and frustration.
About International AutoSource
International AutoSource provides vehicle financing for international nurses, doctors, medical technicians, and many other healthcare professionals with no U.S. credit history. The IAS Healthcare Advantage Program provides exclusive protections, privileged pricing, and dedicated full-service support that is not available anywhere else.
International Healthcare professionals can take advantage of savings, convenience, and full-service support all in one place. Our dedicated healthcare product specialists work one-on-one with each customer to provide full-service support before, during, and after delivery. We also assist with all documentation needed for vehicle financing, licensing, and registration as our customers have more important things to worry about.
Get tips and learn what to expect to make your move as seamless as possible.
