Free Traffic Legal Advice

Hi all,

I recently received a penalty charge for not paying the toll for driving through the Blackwall and Silvertown tunnels. This was the first time we’ve used these tunnels since the new charging scheme came into effect.

To be completely honest, when we drove through, we didn’t notice any signage indicating that a charge was required, and we completely forgot to pay. This has never happened to us before — it’s genuinely a first-time mistake.

I’m aware that with other schemes like the Dartford Crossing, there’s sometimes leniency for first-time offenders if you pay promptly and explain the situation. I’m hoping there might be a similar approach here.

Before I get in touch with them, I wanted to ask:
   •   Is there any point in disputing this charge?
   •   Has anyone had success appealing on the grounds of inadequate signage or honest mistake?
   •   What’s the best way to approach this when contacting the relevant authority?

Thanks in advance for any advice or shared experiences.

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Because these tolls are new we don't know if TFL is using discretion on first timers in the first few weeks.

I would make a polite ask. I think you'd have a better case if you had used Blackwall as Silvertown was widely publicised as a toll tunnel.

But see also:

https://www.ftla.uk/civil-penalty-charge-notices-(councils-tfl-and-so-on)/tfl-red-route-postal-pcns/

Does anyone have any advice ? I’ll need to respond this week

Hi,

I have had the same issue today and received one of these through the post! My first time driving in London and got hit by this as well, was it just me or signage is not that clear?

Likewise it was a genuine mistake however I'm wondering if theres any point in contesting it at all, I was wondering if you contested/recieved a response?

If you want direct help, please start your own thread. You can continue to view this one, of course.