One of the modern innovations that makes auto travel in and around major cities in the Northeast manageable is the E-Z Pass, originally created by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to reduce traffic congestion associated with tollbooths. As any commuter knows, the cash lines at tolls can be interminable, and few would dispute the importance of the E-Z Pass system. Unfortunately for many commuters, that system may be broken. Many people report that E-Z Pass has fined them for toll violations on dates and times when the E-Z Pass record shows a toll properly assessed. In other words, some commuters are charged for using the E-Z Pass at a particular toll, and then they receive a fine for not paying that exact same toll. Whether or not this is a simple, but widespread, billing or computer programming error, as opposed to a callous effort to reap unjust fees, remains to be seen.
The impact on consumers who are victims of these errors can be serious. The fines themselves are quite expensive, usually $50 for each “violation.” Many consumers pay these fines, but others might either miss the notification or refuse to pay the bogus fines. Those consumers’ accounts can be sent to collection agencies, and their credit ratings will likely suffer.
We are investigating a potential class action against the toll company and the Port Authority. If you or someone you know has been wrongfully fined for E-Z Pass violations, please contact us to discuss your legal options.