In the United States, many drivers have found ways to evade tolls; it's not just about skipping a payment. These methods are increasingly sophisticated and creative. From fake plates to devices that prevent license plates from being recorded, toll evasion has become a real headache for authorities.
Officials see it as a serious problem. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has even compared those who evade tolls to criminals. Lawmakers and transportation agencies report that this behavior directly affects state revenue and complicates highway operations.
The numbers don't lie
Last year, the New York State Thruway Authority lost more than $40 million. This was due to drivers who simply didn't pay the tolls. Spokesperson Jonathan Dougherty indicated that "non-billable" transactions already add up to more than $400,000 per year ($400,000) because of the use of fake plates or license plate blockers.
Patrick Orecki, director of studies at the Citizens Budget Commission, warns that these behaviors create a budget deficit. This means the authority has fewer resources to maintain roads, bridges, and tunnels. In addition, those who pay the tolls end up paying more to make up for these losses.
Evasion methods
Drivers have shown great creativity; some use fake or modified plates. Others use magnetic sheets or remote-controlled blockers that prevent cameras from recording the vehicle. There have even been reports of homemade or unregistered plates.
These tricks don't just affect highways. They also try to evade traffic lights, speed controls, and urban surveillance systems. The population adopting these practices seems to challenge authority on multiple fronts.
Authorities' responses
Governor Hochul has proposed stricter measures. Among the measures, there's a plan to increase fines up to $500 for blocking license plate readings.
Police would also be allowed to stop those who use devices to evade tolls. The goal is to stop evasion and protect public revenue.
Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Senate Majority Leader, warns that the level of evasion is alarming. Cathy Sheridan, president of the bridges and tunnels division of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, confirms that the use of unregistered plates has increased since 2019.
The impact for everyone
Avoiding tolls isn't a minor problem. Each evasion reduces the ability to maintain infrastructure and forces other drivers to pay more. Lawmakers call for responsibility and compliance with the rules so everyone can travel safely and fairly.