Illinois Tollway Launches Zero Weather Road Patrols
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The frigid weather could last for a couple more days, so the Illinois Tollway has stepped up around-the clock protection for drivers.
CBS 2's Derrick Blakley took a ride along with the Zero Weather Road Patrol on Sunday.
Tollway veteran Paul Borkowski was on the watch for cold weather car casualties along Interstate 294 from Bensenville to Lake Cook Road.
"I'll respond to flat tires, out of fuel, a battery boost," he said.
Now that temps have taken a dangerous dive, the Tollway has launched its zero-weather road patrols, providing assistance for motorists, 24/7.
"We don't want nobody sitting in a vehicle that's not going to have heat," Borkowski said.
Spotted just south of Lake Cook Road, a red Honda temporarily overheated on Sunday.
"I think it's good now, and I'm on my way," motorist Earl Cina said.
The car trouble was a surprise to Cina, but not to Borkowski.
"In extreme temperatures like this, the cars, they don't react the same way as they would on a normal day," Borkowski said.
Even on a day with bright sun and no snow, severe cold causes problems. Another driver Borkowski helped Sunday had fuel line problems.
At the scene of a three-car crash with injuries, Borkowski braved the cold to keep others safe by cleaning up road debris and using his truck to push damaged cars to the side.
He said it was all part of a cold day's work.
"I find it to be very rewarding, truthfully. I enjoy doing it. I enjoy helping people," Borkowski said.
The Illinois Tollway reminded drivers, if they get stranded, the fastest way to get roadside assistance is to call *999 on their cellphone.