EZPass Maryland Speed Enforcement

 

I live in the Baltimore area. We have several bridges and tunnels that require tolls and have EZPass lanes. I recently got a letter in the mail stating that I had been observed exceeding the speed limit in the EZPass lane and further infractions would result in a loss of my EZPass privileges for a certain amount of time. Has anyone considered adding EZPass locations to the speed camera POI file or creating a separate POI file of these locations? I'd consider creating a file, but don't want to duplicate work. Any such file would have to include all EZPass type toll lanes since the technology to capture speed is probably already built in and could be turned on at any location without notice or installation of visible equipment.

Obey the speed limit signs

lotsofspam wrote:

I live in the Baltimore area. We have several bridges and tunnels that require tolls and have EZPass lanes. I recently got a letter in the mail stating that I had been observed exceeding the speed limit in the EZPass lane.

There is a posted speed limit for going through the EZPass lanes. If you are doing that speed limit, you won't get a ticket - or loose your EZPass privileges. The equipment notes you have an EZPass, but you went through the station too fast for it to update - that's the reason for the letter.

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ɐ‾nsǝɹ Just one click away from the end of the Internet

a_user

I actually thought the same thing - I went too fast for it to register, but I checked my statement - my EZPass was detected and I still got a notice about my speed. The problem with the Baltimore area is that the un-attended lanes equipped with EZPass have a speed limit of 10 to 15 MPH. I travel in Delaware where the same equipment is used and allows 55 MPH. I agree that posted speed must be observed, the problem is that when traveling on a busy highway and having to slow from 55 to 10 with a line of cars behind you can be intimidating. Slowing to 20 sometimes invites a near rear-end collision, but this speed generates the letter. It seems that in the Baltimore area, drivers are getting lots of these, because I've noticed more and more people now slow to the 10 MPH than ever before. I do not condone speeding, I like the warnings that come from the POI files because they help remind me early that I will need to slow down. That way I don't jam on the brakes at the last minute when caught not paying as much attention as I should.

POI

I think it would be great if someone made a POI file for this.

Nope - different equipment

The MD SHA equipment for handling EZPass is a couple generations old and that's why you have to go slow. DE has installed some of the latest "Open Road Tolling" stuff that is much more sensitive and runs with a faster network. You have the same problem on the toll roads in Northern VA - older tech.

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ɐ‾nsǝɹ Just one click away from the end of the Internet

My problem still exists

I'd like to know ahead of time when I'm approaching a potential EZPass area where I could lose my privileges if I travel through above the speed limit. I don't condone speeding, but do admit to paying less attention than I should at times. Does anyone know if a POI file has been generated for these locations or is in the works? I'd like to give it a try and think this one might be useful, but I don't want to duplicate another person's efforts.

Something to consider

The turnpikes in Oklahoma have varying speeds for the PikePass lanes. Some restrict to 30mph, others you can breeze through at the posted 75. In their case the equipment can handle the high speed, but some locations are vintage toll booths with very narrow clearance and toll takers may be on foot in the vicinity and the lanes are too close together to safely mix traffic at speed with those who had to stop to pay. I'm sure the equipment can readily determine speed through the gate. I believe they treat that as a work zone and the fine is high I've heard.

If they're not doing it already, it won't be long before they figure out that if you pass through 2 toll points with an EZPass device, it is a simple matter to calculate time and distance and average speed. Speed cameras can capture an instantaneous speed at a particular location, but electronic toll devices (or even old fashioned in/out timestamped tickets) make it easy to determine if one was averaging over the speed limit between two points.

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"There's no substitute for local knowledge" nüvi 750, nüvi 3597

Clearly marked already......

lotsofspam wrote:

Has anyone considered adding EZPass locations to the speed camera POI file or creating a separate POI file of these locations?

I can't see how that would be worth the effort.
Aren't the Toll Booths and EZ Pass lanes already clearly marked ????

Just making people aware that this can happen would seem to be enough.

[Edit]
OK, just read the rest of the thread and, at the risk of being accused of being "nasty", I feel I must say: "Driving is a full time job. PAY ATTENTION."

What are we going to do, create a POI file that duplicates EVERY warning sign on the highway ???

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Magellan Maestro 4250// MIO C310X

Another way to raise money

TXRVer wrote:

...
If they're not doing it already, it won't be long before they figure out that if you pass through 2 toll points with an EZPass device, it is a simple matter to calculate time and distance and average speed.

This was a huge fear when the system orginally came on line and all sates stated they would never do that. However, the general public has a short memory and times are tough, so I also believe this will happen sooner rather than later.

Why is everyone here so

Why is everyone here so deadset on speeding as much as possible? smile

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Nuvi 3790LMT, Nuvi 760 Lifetime map, Lifetime NavTraffic, Garmin E-Trex Legend Just because "Everyone" drives badly does not mean you have to.

EZ Pass

I don't think people are for speeding. They ARE against MD putting redlight & speed cameras all over the place to capture revenue. In some cases, they have purposefully reduced the speed limit, shortened the yellow light period, & installed speed cameras - for safety, of course.

This may well be an issue in future elections as citizens get sick & tired of being "taxed" in many, many ways.

Fred

not so

onestep wrote:

Why is everyone here so deadset on speeding as much as possible? smile

Not "everyone" here is "deadset on speeding as much as possible."
I find the POI files for speed/redlight cameras quite useful. Sometimes I drive in places I am not familiar with and I just miss the posted speed limit. I keep looking for it and do not find it. If a camera is there, how would I know which limit it is checking for? It is possible to miss out on the sign (trees etc covering the signs for particular areas which are not on the highway). A ding from the POI file is useful in such cases.
On the highways, it is also possible to miss the posted limit especially if you are just entering the highway. You are watching for oncoming traffic on your left or right as the case may be and while doing that it is possible to miss the posted limit. It is not a question of people being "deadset" on speeding, it is just that the human factor is ever present. I have passed traffic lights with the light green and after having passed I would wonder whether the light was green or maybe I ran a red light. My mind was not there. I am THAT human. Anyone who thinks otherwise should feel to term it criminal, especially the perfect drivers who are always attentive on the road and allow no distractions on their mind.
In some other cases, your car is sandwiched between vehicles on multi-lane highways and your view of the speed limit is blocked. That would not be a defense if the police stops you. There are many other situations one can think of beyond the love of speeding, which is "dangerful" thing by itself.
Just in case you are wondering, I do have another POI file generated from another site which announces on my phone "police often hide here" and I have that file on my GPSr which announces that with a tone alert. I want to insulate myself as much as I can from any infraction of the law. And as much as possible, I want to ensure I do not do these things unknowingly. If a POI file saves me from myself (not to talk about the law) how useful is that!

Sunspass (=EZPass) speed enforcement in FL

In Florida, speeding through toll collection facilities can result in speeding fines \ warnings as well. If you come to FL, you can buy a speedpass for as low as $5 and save yourself the headache of waiting in line.

http://www.sunpass.com/purchase.cfm

SunPass is not EZPass

gatorback wrote:

In Florida, speeding through toll collection facilities can result in speeding fines \ warnings as well. If you come to FL, you can buy a speedpass for as low as $5 and save yourself the headache of waiting in line.

http://www.sunpass.com/purchase.cfm

The Sunpass system is similar to EZPass however it is limited to FL and its toll roads. I can use my EZpass from VA to ME and as far east as IL. More states are joining EZPass and getting away from single state systems. One of the advantages(?) of the FL system is when a tourist buys a pass and leaves the state with funds still on the pass. It's not as much revenue as from a Red Light camera, but no refunds either.

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ɐ‾nsǝɹ Just one click away from the end of the Internet

I keep a EZPass and a

I keep a EZPass and a Sunpass in my car and grin each time that I don't have to stop at a tollbooth. Electronic toll collection should be the norm: significant $$ motivation should be given to drivers to use this. For me, the time saved not waiting in stop and go traffic was enough motivation.

Northern VA had high speed toll road at Dulles airport...

You can drive over 55mph and it still register it.

Unlike the Red Light Camera,

Unlike the Red Light Camera, the Sunpass is a convenience, not a penalty. Not really sure how the two can be compared. No one intentionally "buys" a traffic ticket.

The auto replenishment minimum amount is $10, so the most you would be out is $10. Not to mention that you can come back in the future and use the balance.

If $10 is an issue, then you will not be able to enjoy a vacation in FL: you will need to have enough money so that $10 is not an issue to enjoy FL attractions.

I have no affiliation with Sunpass, however, if you are going to drive to and from the Orlando airport (or the turnpike), you would be wise to have this timesaver. Actually, now that I think about it, it would be in my interest for everyone else to keep the Sunpass lanes empty for Sunpass owners smile (just kidding).

EZPass Speed Limit 5mph !!!

The EZPass Only lane speed limit is only 5mph on the Rt 301 Nice Bridge. The other lanes, which are all EZPass also, are 25 mph, I think. Go figure.

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><> Glenn <>< Garmin nüvi 2598

EZpass = big brother

Aside from all of the TV shows where they claim the cops solve the crime based on EZpass type information, anyone should be able to realize that if you go through two or more EZpass sensing locations with such a device, the authorities can and likely will figure out how much time passed between the two events and, knowing the distance, be able to determine an average speed traveled. This may not catch the person who breaks the speed limit briefly but then settles down to lower than the limit, but certainly can be used as evidence against anyone who's average speed exceeds the speed limit. I hardly see why a POI file of EZpass locations needs be created, if you pay for an EZpass don't you have a pretty good idea of where it is being sensed and you are being charged? Or if you care, just refuse to use it. EZpass just makes it simpler for the government to justify charging extra tolls for roads that you already pay gas taxes while using. Use one and you encourage the system.

I agree

gatorback wrote:

I keep a EZPass and a Sunpass in my car and grin each time that I don't have to stop at a tollbooth. Electronic toll collection should be the norm: significant $$ motivation should be given to drivers to use this. For me, the time saved not waiting in stop and go traffic was enough motivation.

You know what is funny? MD is going to start charging EzPassMD users a monthly fee to use the service. Which is cheaper - EZPass or paying someone to operate a toll booth 24/7?

ez pass

i live in nj and as long as you keep the speed under 30 mph going thru the toll you are ok

EZPass notification?

You really need the GPS to tell you when you are going thru the EZPass lane? They are clearly marked and usually seperated from the cash lanes and they will not record your speed until your are going thru the sensor anyhow that is plenty of time to realize you need to slow down.

Not Big Brother

Most EZPass lanes have sensors built into the lane to determine the vehicle speed, it does not calculate the time between two EZPass locations. However, any toll road where you get a ticket and pay when you get off can calculate the minimum average speed travelled between the two points with little effort.

That's why I'm turning mine in

j.squared wrote:

You know what is funny? MD is going to start charging EzPassMD users a monthly fee to use the service. Which is cheaper - EZPass or paying someone to operate a toll booth 24/7?

That's why I'll turn mine in and get one from either PA or VA. $1.50 per month to keep their costs down isn't something I'm willing to pay.

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ɐ‾nsǝɹ Just one click away from the end of the Internet

keeping all mine

I have (4) EZ-Pass devices and am not crazy about paying the fee, but the fee is per account vs. device. Sent my thoughts in on the matter during the comment period, but to no avail.

There are now a couple of "higher speed" but not "highway speed" EZ-Pass lanes at the Fort McHenry Tunnel. Get all the way to the left for the 30 mph lane.

RAmen!

jeffk069 wrote:

i live in nj and as long as you keep the speed under 30 mph going thru the toll you are ok

right, all EZ-Pass lanes are marked how fast you are allowed to go. I don't need my GPS to tell me...

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Garmin Quest/Quest2/Nuvi660/Nuvi755T

not new for most of us

NJ EZPass has been charging a monthly fee for years, maybe 6? The fee is $1 per month IF you agree to online billing. Not only that, discounts have all but evaporated (use the tunnel between 2 and 2:02 am on odd days of non leap years for a $0.10 discount). The only reason to have one is to save valuable time.....

They don't capture it just

They don't capture it just collect it. You give away the revenue when you speed. Stop blaming other ppl for your habits if u speed and get caught you pay that it, thats all.

I've always wondered

why the speed limits were different. Didn't know it was the equipment they use. I travel to MD almost every year. Back in 2004, they installed tollbooths on the northbound of I-95 for $5.00 toll. I was going to exit 77 at the time. The new booths are north of that area. Now, I take Route 1. It's a little longer but cheaper for me.

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Mike

interesting

interesting

toll collection

And I was stupid enough to thing that tolls were there only to collect funds to cover cost of BUILDING highways wink Or at least that what people were told when they introduced them.
But I think as long as having to pay for roads makes us happy government doesn't dare take this pleasure from us wink
And don't tell me that they collect money to fix those highways. I live in Chicago area and highways here are more of off-road experience than anything else. Even if they are under construction all spring, summer and fall, every year.

MD charging 1.50 per month

Has anyone tried getting a toll tag from another state? Say, for example, a MD resident getting a pass from PA. Did you just give your MD address and have it shipped to you or did you have it sent to a friend's house in that state?

your address

you can get an ez-pass from any state. I used to have a NJ EZ-Pass because MA was charging $25 at the time for their FastLane. Then NJ started charging $1 per month and RI started their EZ-Pass program for no charge. I live in RI, so all the better.

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Garmin Quest/Quest2/Nuvi660/Nuvi755T

Just a thought . . .

Wouldn't it be possible to determine the location of the toll lanes and set a speed alarm so when you approach that location the alarm sounds if you're driving too fast?

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Garmin nüvi 765T, nüvi 350

there are those new

there are those new inventions they put into cars to let you know how fast you are going...speedometers I think they are called, but I am not sure smile

--
Garmin Quest/Quest2/Nuvi660/Nuvi755T

lotsofspam wrote: I live in

lotsofspam wrote:

I live in the Baltimore area. We have several bridges and tunnels that require tolls and have EZPass lanes. I recently got a letter in the mail stating that I had been observed exceeding the speed limit in the EZPass lane and further infractions would result in a loss of my EZPass privileges for a certain amount of time. Has anyone considered adding EZPass locations to the speed camera POI file or creating a separate POI file of these locations? I'd consider creating a file, but don't want to duplicate work. Any such file would have to include all EZPass type toll lanes since the technology to capture speed is probably already built in and could be turned on at any location without notice or installation of visible equipment.

I have not received one, maybe they should have some incentive to put in high speed ezpass lane, 5mph speed limit is a little ridiculous.

date?

a_user wrote:
j.squared wrote:

You know what is funny? MD is going to start charging EzPassMD users a monthly fee to use the service. Which is cheaper - EZPass or paying someone to operate a toll booth 24/7?

That's why I'll turn mine in and get one from either PA or VA. $1.50 per month to keep their costs down isn't something I'm willing to pay.

Do you know when they are going to start this? I haven't seen anything advertised to alert us to when this ridiculous fee will be instituted. I plan on switching EzPass states

People are still paying $1

People are still paying $1 fee for the pass? It was revoked in NY by congress. I thought that was universal.

Speeding as much as possible

I used to be this way but have slowed down to the speed limit in my older years. I find that I may arrive 10 minutes later on a long trip but I am much more relaxed not having to have worried about my speed all the way.

EZ Pass Monthly Charges

Now let's see. They charge a monthly fee & hassle people for going through the toll lane too fast. The result is that some/many? folks will turn in their EZ Pass. Net result, the fixed costs of taking tolls goes up significantly because they have to hire additional human labor to collect the tolls. Whoever manages this system might lose their job under those circumstances, as actual total revenue declines.

Sometimes I'm amazed at various levels of government decision making.

Fred

This has to be one of the

This has to be one of the more brilliant moves by the MVA and the MD govt.

You take Rt 1 - try Rt 40

Rt 40 - It's a little faster in my opinion. Also, if you go north beyond exit 89 on I-95, you hit the Tydings Bridge and a $5.00 toll heading north. A local secret is to get off at exit 89 and head down to Rt 40 to cross the same river. They charge you $5.00 but if you ask for a decal, they give you one for no extra charge. Stick the decal on your driver side window and you can cross that bridge as many times as you want in the next 12 months for no extra money.

MD EZPass monthly fee

I was extremely disappointed to see the new monthly fee on the MD EZPass. I found this Wikipedia site that shows all the fees charges by state if you want to switch:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E-ZPass#Account_fees_by_agency
I think I will go with the Peace Bridge Authority and send the MD passes back since I only use it a few times a year.

Just got my letter from MTA

redcat72 wrote:

I was extremely disappointed to see the new monthly fee on the MD EZPass. I found this Wikipedia site that shows all the fees charges by state if you want to switch:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E-ZPass#Account_fees_by_agency
I think I will go with the Peace Bridge Authority and send the MD passes back since I only use it a few times a year.

I just received a letter from Maryland Transportation Authority notifying me of the new monthly fee. I, too, plan on closing my Maryland EZPass account and getting one from another agency, since I only use the tolls once or twice a month, at most.

-Dave

Maybe

I originally signed up in NY (which still has no fee), but when NJ started their monthly fee I was charged since I live in NJ. My only point is that some EZPASS Authorities my charge the monthly fee based on your address and not where you sign up.

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Tom

I moved once before no problem

I originally had a NY EZ Pass and reopened an account in MD after they started charging a fee. I think I had to send back the transponders and that was it.

I just got my letter regarding the new charge in MD of $1.50 per month and I plan to close that account and re-open in another state without the fee.

Thanks for the link above regarding the other state charges.

Ahhhh, to live out West

Ahhhh, to live out West where there are no toll roads. I used to live in NY and thought toll roads were just way of life. It probably won't be long before some genius in the government decides to start tolling roads out here though. I guess all the speed cameras out here (Phoenix in particular) kind of make up for us not having toll roads though.