In recent months, several drivers using the Dartford Crossing have reported alarming experiences with debt collectors over fines linked to the Dart Charge, a toll system for using the bridge that connects Kent and Essex. The situation has raised concerns about alleged harassment and intimidation from bailiffs, prompting calls for clearer communication and resolution processes.
Rachel Canning, a resident of Hornchurch, found herself in a distressing situation when a bailiff showed up at her home demanding payment for fines she believed were issued in error. Despite having an automated top-up account to cover the toll fees, Rachel received six penalty notices in just a few months. After successfully contesting four fines, she was shocked to receive a notice demanding £385 for two penalties that were not reflected in her account.
Rachel described the bailiff’s behavior as aggressive and threatening. After enduring repeated contact and pressure from the bailiff, she reluctantly paid £620 to halt the harassment.
Similarly, Aneta Wasilewska experienced significant distress after accumulating 39 fines due to an account closure that she was unaware of. The situation escalated when a bailiff demanded £7,800, leading her to pay £1,500 upfront. Although her MP intervened and she eventually received refunds, Aneta noted the lack of an apology from Dart Charge for the ordeal.
The issues surrounding Dart Charge are not isolated incidents. National Highways reports that it has collected £112 million from approximately 2.3 million penalty notices over the past five years. Notably, one in five fined drivers was referred to bailiffs in 2023 alone. This alarming trend highlights serious concerns about enforcement practices and communication failures within the system.
Firefighter Andy Coote also faced significant challenges with Dart Charge penalties. After receiving 34 fines, he set up a payment plan after being overwhelmed by demands totaling £2,500. He expressed frustration over receiving multiple daily messages from CDER Group, describing them as “intimidating.”
National Highways attributed these issues to users not having active accounts or outdated payment methods but emphasized that nearly 95% of crossings are paid on time.
As these troubling incidents unfold, many drivers are left questioning whether adequate protections are in place against aggressive collection tactics. The situation calls for urgent reforms in how toll collections are managed to ensure fairness and transparency for all users of the Dartford Crossing.
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