Why Are There Queues at Motorway Tolls and How Can You Avoid Them?

Few things are more frustrating than being stuck in a queue at the tolls during peak hours or the start of the holiday rush. But why do such traffic jams form? And what can you do to avoid them? Thanks to free-flow tolling (also known as barrier-free tolling), drivers can now travel without the hassle of stopping at toll areas. How does free-flow tolling work? How is this system revolutionising our motorways? Discover how your journeys can become smoother than ever!

Why Do Queues Form at Motorway Tolls?

Are you one of the millions of drivers who regularly face slowdowns at motorway toll gates? On busy routes, waiting at tolls is a major issue. Several factors contribute to this:

- Heavy traffic: queues are especially long during holidays or rush hours.

- Different payment methods: some drivers pay in cash, others by card, which slows down the process.

- Lack of dedicated lanes: at some toll areas and barriers, there are few lanes reserved for electronic tolling, increasing waiting times.

- Traditional tolling: this type of toll system requires stopping, unlike barrier-free motorways, which keeps traffic moving.

To help drivers avoid these issues, the motorway operator Sanef—led by Managing Director Arnaud Quémard—has developed a solution: free-flow motorway tolling.

How Does Free-Flow Tolling Help Avoid Queues?

The latest innovation to optimise motorway traffic is free-flow tolling. 
How does it work? Traditional barriers are replaced with free-flow gantries equipped with:

- Cameras that read number plates.

- Sensors that detect badges for automatic payment.

How do you pay?

- Drivers with an electronic toll badge are charged automatically, without stopping.

- Those without a badge must pay within 72 hours via a dedicated website or at a partner Nirio newsagent.

This innovative tolling system is already in place on several routes, including the A79 barrier-free motorway, the first of its kind in France. Since then, the A13 and A14 Paris-Normandy motorways have also been equipped.

What Are the Benefits of Barrier-Free Tolling?

Free-flow tolling eliminates queues and enhances the user experience. The key benefits include:

- Saving time: toll crossings are smooth and fast.

- Less hassle: no more last-minute lane changes.

- More efficient motorway entries and exits with no barriers.

- Greener journeys: fewer stops mean lower CO₂ emissions.

- Improved safety: fewer sudden stops and reduced risk of collisions.

- Services adapted to new needs: motorway service areas are now better equipped with charging points for electric vehicles.

In France, free-flow motorways are still limited, but new projects are underway. The rollout of free-flow tolling is ongoing. By 2040, most major routes and future motorways in France will have adopted this model.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay Your Free-Flow Toll?

Be aware: if you don’t pay for your free-flow journey, you risk a surcharge! Here’s what happens if you forget:

A payment notice is sent to the vehicle owner.

If payment isn’t made within 72 hours, a fixed penalty of €90 applies.

After 60 days, the fine can reach €375.

For a hassle-free journey, it’s best to use an electronic toll badge. With Bip&Go, your motorway toll payment is automatic (the amount is calculated monthly). This means you avoid barrier-free toll fines. Your toll bill is available online. The badge also lets you drive in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, and gives you easy access to over 1,000 car parks! 
It’s the ideal way to travel with peace of mind!

Queues at motorway tolls are a real obstacle to smooth traffic. Thanks to free-flow tolls, gantries, and barrier-free motorways, you can now travel without stopping and with complete ease. Reducing congestion at toll barriers makes journeys so much more comfortable! Don’t take any risks: get your Bip&Go badge now, and enjoy faster, hassle-free travel. With a Bip&Go subscription, you benefit from efficient and convenient free-flow tolling services!

Driving an electric car? You can find motorway service areas with charging stations easily thanks to the Bip&Go charging card!