Maryland Governor Announces Decrease in Tolls on Bay Bridge and ICC Among Others

Early Thursday morning, a meeting took place where it was decided that multiple tolls across the state would be reduced.  This move was in large part done by Governor Hogan to show Marylanders he really meant it when he promised lower fees across the state after seeing them increase under former Governor O’Malley.  The $6 toll to travel on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge will now be $4.  For those with an EZ-Pass, the toll changes from $5.40 to $2.50, a 37.5 percent discount round trip. 

            Other changes that will happen include: eliminating the EZ-Pass Maryland monthly $1.50 account fee, increasing the EZ-Pass Maryland discount from 10% to 25% for the Baltimore Harbor and Fort McHenry Tunnels, the Francis Scott Key Bridge, the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge, and the JFK Memorial Highway (I-95), establishing a 30% discount at the Hatem Bridge for 3- and 4-axle vehicles with a Maryland EZ-Pass (3-axle drops from $16 to $11.20 and 4-axle drops from $24 to $16.80).

            One final major change to take effect involves the ICC and I-95 express lanes.  Two-axle toll rates on the ICC and I-95 Express Toll Lanes for all pricing periods will be reduced by $0.03 per mile.  On the ICC, that translates to a peak period change from $4.40 to $3.86.  On the I-95 Express Lanes, that translates to a peak period change from $1.75 to $1.54.

            All of these changes take effect starting July 1, 2015.  This will certainly be welcome news for all Marylanders who have seen toll rates steadily increase over the last several years.  With lower tolls on many Maryland roads, bridges, and tunnels, more drivers could be tempted to try express lanes to avoid traffic congestion.  If this occurs, traffic-related accidents could decrease and fewer people will be injured in these types of accidents.

            However, if you or a family member has been injured or killed in an accident caused by the fault or negligence of another person and would like to consult an experienced personal injury attorney for free, contact us at (301) 854-9000 to schedule an appointment at one of our office locations throughout Maryland or visit us online at http://www.portnerandshure.com/Auto-Accidents/