How Much is a Toll Violation?
Introduction
Driving on toll roads can be convenient, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential consequences of not paying your tolls. A toll violation, also known as a toll evasion, refers to the failure to pay a toll fee when a driver uses a toll road or bridge. In this article, we’ll explain how much a toll violation can cost and what fines and penalties you may encounter.
How Much is a Toll Violation?
The cost of a toll violation varies depending on the state, toll facility, and type of license plate. Here are the typical fines and penalties in the United States:
- Cash Toll: Free or minimal fine ( varies by state)
- Electronic Toll Collection (ETC): $1-$5 toll plus a **$* fee (varies by state)
- Video Tolling: *$* fee only (varies by state)
- Tolls not Paid: 25% to 50% of the total outstanding tolls owed, typically with a minimum fine and a $** license plate registration suspension fee
Types of Toll Violations
There are three main types of toll violations:
- Delinquent Toll: Payment is overdue, and additional fees are added.
- Example: Driver fails to pay a bridge toll and is sent multiple notices before the license plate is suspended.
- Non-Compliance: Driver fails to scan their ETC transponder or does not have ETC.
- Example: Driver enters the toll road without scanning their ETC transponder and is sent a notice when the toll is processed manually.
- Suspension: License plate registered to the driver is suspended due to non-payment.
Consequences of Failure to Pay Tolls
Failing to pay tolls can lead to increased fines, penalties, and even legal action. Below are some potential consequences:
- License Plate Registration Suspension: Your license plate registration may be suspended by the state, making you unable to register your vehicle.
- Wheels-Off: In Florida, if you accumulate several toll violations, your vehicles’ license plates may be removed, and you’re required to pay the violation fees before they’re reapplied.
- Arrest and Fines: In some cases, local law enforcement may issue summonses or arrest individuals found to be evading tolls.
- Lien on Vehicle: Debt collectors may place a lien on your vehicle, jeopardizing your ability to purchase or sell your vehicle in the future.
Staying Safe and Avoiding Toll Violations
To ensure a smooth and toll-freepassage, keep the following tips in mind:
- Keep Records: Keep receipts and transponder records to prove that you’ve paid your tolls.
- Keep Your ETC Transponder Up-to-Date: Ensure your ETC account is active and your transponder is properly installed.
- Check Your Mail and Email: Regularly inspect your mail and email for toll violation notices.
- Pay Tolls Efficiently: Use a contactless payment method, if available, to minimize time spent at toll booths or processing tolls manually.
- Plan Your Routes: Research toll roads and plan your routes in advance using mapping apps or websites with toll information.
Key Takeaways
In this article, we’ve explored the cost of a toll violation, the types of penalties, and the consequences of failure to pay tolls. Remember:
- Ignoring toll violations can result in increased fines, penalty fees, and even $** license plate suspension fees
- Electronic toll collection (ETC) and video tolling enable cashless transactions, decreasing the likelihood of toll violations and associated fines
- Drivers should keep records, and regularly inspect their mail and email for toll violation notices
- Planning routes using mapping apps or websites that provide toll information can simplify the toll payment process
