Cops, Courts and Fire Transportation

PA Turnpike Will Continue To Target Toll Evaders

Officials are warning drivers to pay their tolls.

File photo.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission warned drivers that they will continue to work with the Pennsylvania State Police to crack down on drivers who have failed to pay their tolls.

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According to a press release by the Turnpike Commission, over 200 traffic stops were conducted during an April enforcement effort, with many of those stops resulting in drivers paying their toll fees. 

On a day that saw over 23 stops by troopers, $48,000 in previously unpaid tolls was collected from drivers as well as the opportunity to collect over $130,000 in past-due balances. 

“As we refine and enhance future enforcement efforts, drivers who continue to ignore invoices will face consequences,” said Pennsylvania Turnpike CEO Mark Compton. “While the majority of our 550,000 daily customers follow the law and pay their tolls on time, we will continue to target evaders and make measurable progress on claiming what we’re owed.” 

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According to the press release, since 2018 over 200,000 eligible for suspension letters have been given to owners in Pennsylvania with registered vehicles. 

Over 90% of toll transactions are collected by the Turnpike which receives no tax dollars and is funded by those who pay for its use.

A sign at the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission building in King of Prussia, Montgomery County. File photo.
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Drivers who rack up $250 in unpaid tolls and fees – or four unpaid Toll-By-Plate invoices – are referred to PennDOT for registration suspension.

Driving with a suspended registration can lead to fines, license suspension, and the chance of the owner’s vehicle being taken away. 

The Turnpike advises that drivers can avoid unpaid fees by using E-ZPass, which is the cheapest way to pay tolls.

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About the author

Stephen Zaglin

Stephen Zaglin is a student based in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He has written stories for his University’s school newspaper and has experience in gamers, feature stories, and interviews. Stephen’s main interest is in sports and that is what he has mostly covered, but he is looking forward to learning about other topics and writing other types of stories.