Free-flow tolling simplifies highway traffic by eliminating physical barriers. But it also requires a new habit: paying after passing through, within a specific timeframe. What happens if you forget to pay on time? What are the consequences? Here are all the answers to help you understand, react quickly, and avoid extra charges.

What are the payment deadlines after a free-flow toll journey?

You have 72 hours after passing through a free-flow toll plaza to pay the amount due. After this period, non-payment is considered an offense.

If I don't pay within 72 hours: what happens?

  1. A payment notice will be sent to your home address.
  2. Fixed compensation based on payment of this notice:
  • If you pay within 15 days of receiving the notice: compensation reduced by €10 in addition to the toll amount.
  • If you pay between 15 days and 2 months after receiving the notice: compensation increased by €90 in addition to the toll amount.

When is the fixed penalty of €375 applied?

  • If the payment notice remains unpaid two months after its receipt, the case is forwarded to the relevant state services (public prosecutor).
  • A fixed penalty fine of €375 (Class IV offense) is then applied.
  • This amount is set by the law.

What does the law say in case of non-payment of tolls?

Failure to pay tolls is governed by Article R419-2 of the French Highway Code. In the event of non-payment, the driver is subject to recovery proceedings which can result in a criminal fine.

Do the penalties apply to each toll plaza passage or to each journey?

  • Penalties (compensation/fine) are applied for each trip not paid on time. For example, an unpaid round trip will result in two notices/two procedures.
  • If you have not received the payment notice, please check that the address on your vehicle registration document is up to date.

What are the solutions to avoid forgetting to pay my toll at the free-flowing toll plaza?

Several solutions are available:

  • The Sanef customer account on sanef.com allows you to track all your journeys and simplify toll payment. You will receive notifications or reminders after each trip. You can link a payment method to automate payment for each of your journeys.
  • The electronic toll tag: automatically detected by the gantries, the cost of your journeys will be automatically debited.

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