As Maryland moves toward all-electronic toll billing and constituents complain about high fines that total thousands of dollars in some cases, two lawmakers are working to reduce the penalties for late video toll payments.
Drivers who go through toll facilities without paying – such as drivers on the all-electronic Intercounty Connector (ICC) who do not have EZ Pass transponders – are sent a video toll invoice. If the video toll is not paid within 30 days, the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) issues a citation with a $50 civil penalty.
In the case of the ICC, commuters might get a notice with multiple trips included, so a single notice paid late can result in several $50 fines that add up quickly. (CORRECTION: ICC tolls are calculated at the entrance and exit to the toll road. ICC commuters who use the road frequently may get a notice with several missed toll trips, and each of those can result in a late penalty if not paid) Some drivers don’t realize they have a problem with an E-ZPass account or change addresses, only to later find out they owe hundreds or thousands in fines for small initial toll charges.
The Chesapeake Bay bridge has also gone to all cashless tolls on some days to ease traffic congestion.
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Punish Marylanders and let out of State steals Maryland money.
ReplyDeleteWe used to be free
ReplyDeleteSo hit people going to work with huge tolls and fines, let urban teens ride Metro for free. Par for the course these days.
ReplyDeleteShouldn't be any tolls while we put up with this mess at the bridge.
ReplyDelete11:48
ReplyDeleteYou are correct. This is what Progressivism gets us.
Need more police at toll booths to take necessary changes action. Not just an empty police car next to a booth. Word will get out about law enforcement. Saves MD from sending out useless fine notices.
ReplyDelete