Dartford Crossing fines: Drivers face £105 penalty for late payment
Drivers are reminded of the payment deadline and potential penalties for using the Dartford Crossing.
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Drivers using the Dartford Crossing face potential fines of up to £105 if they miss the payment deadline for the Dart Charge. The crossing, which connects Kent and Essex, operates without traditional toll booths, requiring motorists to pay separately after their journey.
The Dart Charge system uses cameras to record vehicle number plates. Payments must be made by midnight on the day after the crossing. For example, a journey made on a Monday requires payment by 11.59pm on Tuesday. This deadline applies every day, including weekends and bank holidays.
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Penalty Charge Notices explained
Missing the payment deadline can lead to a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). The standard penalty is £70, but this is reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days. If the penalty is not settled within 28 days, the charge can increase to £105. The original crossing charge of £3.50 for a standard car is added to any penalty, meaning a missed payment could cost between £38.50 and £108.50.
National Highways has previously offered a first-time warning arrangement for eligible drivers, allowing them to pay only the crossing charge within 14 days of receiving a notice. However, drivers should not assume this concession will always apply and must carefully read any PCN received.
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Crossing charges and times
The Dartford Crossing charge for cars and small motorhomes is £3.50. Two-axle vans and goods vehicles are charged £4.20, while larger vehicles with more than two axles face an £8.40 charge. Motorcycles are permitted to cross free of charge. These charges are in effect daily between 6am and 10pm. Crossings made between 10pm and 6am are free.
Appealing and avoiding fines
Drivers who believe a penalty notice has been issued incorrectly can challenge it. Reasons for appeal may include the vehicle not being involved in the crossing, the charge being paid correctly, or an error in number plate recording. Challenges can be submitted online or by post, and should include supporting evidence. Drivers are advised not to ignore penalty notices while an appeal is being processed.
To avoid missed payments, drivers can set up an automatic payment account with National Highways. A pre-pay account may offer discounted crossing charges. Residents within the Dartford or Thurrock council areas might qualify for a local discount scheme. It is important to keep vehicle registration and payment details up to date.
Drivers are warned to use only the official government website for payments, as unofficial third-party sites may charge extra fees or fail to process payments correctly. Anyone who thinks they have missed the deadline should contact Dart Charge for advice before a penalty notice arrives.
Questions this report answers
+When do I need to pay the Dart Charge?
You must pay the Dart Charge by midnight on the day after you use the Dartford Crossing. For example, if you cross on a Monday, you have until 11:59pm on Tuesday to make the payment. This applies every day of the week.
+What happens if I miss the payment deadline?
If you miss the payment deadline, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). The standard penalty is £70, which is reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days. If not paid within 28 days, the penalty can increase to £105, plus the original £3.50 crossing charge for a car.
+How much does it cost to cross the Dartford Crossing?
For cars and small motorhomes, the crossing charge is £3.50. Vans and goods vehicles are charged £4.20, and larger vehicles with more than two axles pay £8.40. Motorcycles can cross for free. These charges apply between 6am and 10pm daily.
+How can I avoid paying fines for the Dartford Crossing?
To avoid fines, you can pay the Dart Charge by midnight the day after crossing. Alternatively, setting up an automatic payment account with National Highways ensures charges are collected automatically. Pre-pay accounts may also offer discounts.
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