Legal Question in Traffic Law in Illinois

When I moved to Chicago I didn't register my car because I was going to get rid of it and I did after 4-5 months. I missed a few tolls and I went to the toll office to make right about a month after I moved to pay all past fees and purchase a I-Pass. A year later I receive a notice stating that I owe $1900! When I called they said they were sending the notices to my Milwaukee address because that where my plates were registered and that there mail doesn't get forwarded. A law office is now sending me a notice that I owe this money, when I called them they offered to reduce it to $900. What can I do? I onl missed 6 toll and I would think they can tell it is a simple mistake as I did buy an Ipass right away. PLEASE HELP?


Asked on 4/17/12, 6:35 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Stephen Messutta

You took a risk. People moving to Illinois and who intend to reside here are supposed to transfer title and plates to Illinois within 30 days of moving here. What you experienced is one main reason for the rule - otherwise Illinois authorities have no idea where to reach you. There is an old, old saying: "ignorance of the law is no excuse". You can hire an attorney and/or wait until a lawsuit is filed and then present your case to the judge, who may give you a "partial" pass or make you toe the line. And even if you "win" in part, you may be liable for court costs. So I recommend an attorney. PS - did you get Illinois insurance? We have mandatory rules on that too.

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Answered on 4/18/12, 7:00 am


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