A poll by parking firm APH has shown 54% of motorists want more time to pay toll charges at the Dartford crossing.
The poll was prompted after more than 220 comments were posted with many drivers complaining they had fallen victim to inadequate signage and unrealistic time constraints for paying the toll – which must be settled by midnight the following day.
Results revealed that a majority of 54% thought giving more time to pay the charge was the best way to improve the service and help cut the number of motorists being hit by fines of up to £105.
Seemingly appreciative of the improvement in travel times brought about by the automatic charging, just 16% favoured a return to tolls being collected by staff in booths, while options that more information should be published in the press or sent with DVLA reminders were also shunned; with just 3% and 2% (respectively) in favour.
There was some overt support for the new system, though, with 3% of those who took the poll suggesting that drivers should stop moaning, take responsibility and get used to the new system.
What would improve the Dartford Crossing toll system?
|
More time to pay the charge (currently midnight following day) |
54% |
|
New and improved signs with clear instructions on how to pay |
23% |
|
Return to tolls being collected by staff at the crossing |
16% |
|
The new system works fine and drivers need to take responsibility |
3% |
|
More national and local press coverage |
3% |
|
Leaflets sent with other DVLA reminders |
2% |
Daryll Kirley - 19/07/2015 20:53
I recently visited my friend in Essex and had to cross in both directions. I had my toll money ready but just drove through. Concentrating on the heavy traffic around me I must of missed the signs telling me to pay online. With all the road works going on I just thought that it was free. Luckily it was just a day visit, because if I stayed for the week end I would of gone over the time limit. I personally think this online payment is unfair to those who choose not to keep up with technology i.e old people. Holiday travellers going to Dover might not have access to the web for a couple of days, some may not like to give their credit card details to a public used computer. There should be at least a couple of toll booths for those who have restricted use of the internet whilst travelling. I am not a fan of this system