If you’ve ever traveled on toll roads in the eastern United States, chances are you’ve encountered E-ZPass. This electronic toll collection system is designed to make toll payments quick and easy, eliminating the need for drivers to stop and pay at a toll booth. However, while E-ZPass can be a convenient way to pay tolls, it can also be used to track and ticket drivers for speeding on toll roads.
How do E-ZPass Tickets work?
E-ZPass tickets are issued when a driver exceeds the speed limit on a toll road. The E-ZPass system uses sensors and cameras to track the speed of each vehicle that passes through a toll lane. If a vehicle is detected as exceeding the speed limit, the system automatically generates a ticket and sends it to its owner.
E-ZPass tickets are similar to traditional speeding tickets, carrying a fine and points on the driver’s license. However, there are some critical differences between E-ZPass and traditional speeding tickets.
First, E-ZPass tickets are issued by the toll road agency, not the local police department. This means the ticket will be mailed to the vehicle’s owner rather than issued on the spot by an officer.
Second, E-ZPass tickets are typically more expensive than traditional speeding tickets. This is because toll road agencies charge a higher rate for speeding violations on their roads.
Finally, E-ZPass tickets are often harder to contest or dispute. Since the ticket is generated automatically by the E-ZPass system, it may not be easy to provide evidence or testimony that could challenge the ticket.
How to Avoid an E-ZPass Speeding Ticket?
The best way to avoid an E-ZPass speeding ticket is to follow the speed limit on toll roads. Most toll roads have posted speed limits that are marked and easy to see. If you are unsure of the speed limit on a particular toll road, you can check the posted signs or consult a map or GPS device.
It’s also good to be mindful of your speed when approaching and passing through a toll plaza. The E-ZPass system is most likely to detect speeding violations near the toll plaza, where the sensors and cameras are located.
If you do receive an E-ZPass ticket for speeding, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the impact:
- Pay the ticket promptly. E-ZPass tickets come with a deadline for payment, and failure to pay the ticket on time can result in additional fines or penalties.
- Consider attending a defensive driving course. Some states allow drivers to reduce or eliminate points on their licenses by attending a defensive driving course. Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to see if this option is available.
- Dispute the ticket if you believe it was issued in error. If you believe that you were wrongly issued an E-ZPass ticket, you can contest it by following the instructions provided on the ticket. This may involve submitting a written challenge or attending a hearing.
- Consider hiring an attorney. If you cannot contest the ticket on your own or if the ticket carries a significant fine, you may consider hiring an attorney to help you fight the ticket. An attorney may be able to negotiate a settlement or represent you in court.
E-ZPass is a convenient way to pay tolls, but it can also be used to track and ticket drivers for speeding on toll roads. If caught speeding on a toll road, you may be issued an E-ZPass ticket with a fine and points on your license. To avoid an E-ZPass ticket, follow the speed limit on toll roads and be mindful of your speed when approaching and passing through toll plazas. If you receive an E-ZPass ticket, you can minimize the impact by paying the ticket promptly, attending a defensive driving course, disputing the ticket if it was issued in error, or hiring an attorney to represent you.