Philadelphia – Since the state unveiled its new license‑plate design, a growing number of motorists have complained that automated toll systems are mistaking the slashed zero for the number eight. The error has led to incorrect E‑ZPass charges on accounts that belong to drivers who never operated the vehicles in question.
What drivers are experiencing
Jules R. Cattie III, a resident of Francisville, told Action News that he has repeatedly received toll bills for a Toyota Corolla he does not own. “I was getting bills for like $30, $40, and they were just constantly ringing up on my account,” Cattie said. He believes the problem stems from another vehicle’s plate that looks almost identical to his, except that the zero on the other plate appears as an eight to the toll‑reading software.
The redesigned zero on Pennsylvania’s plates includes a slash through the digit. Some license‑plate readers, including those used by the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, have been interpreting that slash‑zero as an eight, causing the system to attribute tolls to the wrong driver.
Agency response
Crispin Havener of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission confirmed the issue in February, noting that it affects not only toll‑collection operations but also any agency that relies on license‑plate recognition software. The commission says its system has undergone a “couple software enhancements” and that it will continue working with its vendor to improve accuracy.
In addition to software fixes, the commission advises drivers to ensure their E‑ZPass transponders are properly mounted. When a transponder is read correctly, the system does not need to rely on a license‑plate image. However, this does not help drivers like Cattie whose erroneous charges are linked to a different vehicle’s plate.
How drivers can protect themselves
E‑ZPass has told customers that they do not need to submit a new Toll Dispute Form for each mistaken charge. Instead, drivers can request that their license plates be placed on a manual‑review list for future Pennsylvania Turnpike transactions. The agency also encourages motorists with a zero or an eight on their plates to regularly review their accounts for potential billing errors.
Cattie warned that delayed disputes have sometimes resulted in lost money, especially when the issue involves turnpike agencies in other states. He urges fellow drivers to identify and contest mistakes promptly.
Looking ahead
The Turnpike Commission remains committed to resolving the problem. While software upgrades are in progress, officials stress the importance of driver vigilance and the use of transponders to minimize reliance on license‑plate imaging. As the state continues to refine its toll‑collection technology, motorists are asked to stay informed and report any discrepancies they encounter.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
