- Pennsylvania Turnpike-State Police Enforcement Campaign Will Target Serial Toll Scofflaws
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Pennsylvania Turnpike-State Police Enforcement Campaign Will Target Serial Toll Scofflaws
In April, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) and the Pennsylvania State Police will partner on their first-ever toll enforcement initiative, targeting aggressive drivers and drivers operating vehicles with a suspended registration resulting from unpaid tolls. The month-long campaign will take place across the state.
PTC supports law enforcement use of license plate recognition technology on and off its network to identify vehicles with suspended registrations. State troopers who detect unregistered operation will issue citations or impound vehicles linked to toll payment violations. They will simultaneously be on the lookout for drivers who speed, change lanes suddenly, or engage in other risky behavior.
Driving with a suspended registration is a serious traffic violation that may lead to major fines, driver’s license suspension, immediate car impoundment, and towing charges. PTC can refer drivers who accrue $250 or more in unpaid tolls and fees, or at least four unpaid toll-by-plate invoices, to PennDOT for registration suspension. Since 2018, the commission has issued more than 200,000 “Eligible for Suspension” letters to owners of Pennsylvania-registered vehicles. More than 67,000 of those vehicles remain in active suspension status.
The new initiative highlights PTC’s commitment to improving revenue collection efforts. In another recent development, it is working with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General to pursue civil action against egregious toll evaders, those owing more than $12,000. In addition to taking enforcement action, the commission has expanded customer options for paying tolls, making it easier than ever for drivers to contribute their fair share to the improvement and maintenance of the turnpike network.
“Cracking down on drivers who have consistently ignored multiple invoices and outreach is a priority for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission,” commented CEO Mark Compton. “This [joint initiative] supports our commitment to managing a fair, equitable roadway system for our 550,000 daily customers – [the] majority of whom follow the law and pay their tolls on time.” Chief operating officer Craig Shuey noted, “Customers have more ways than ever to pay tolls, including digital, web-based and cash options; still, we have those who don’t think the law applies to them. We are grateful for our partnership with the [state police] and their willingness to prioritize this operation. It reiterates our shared commitment to holding those who break the law accountable.”
Source: PTC news release, NBC News Philadelphia
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