I was sent a bill for toll violations (from NTTA) from a tollway roughly 4-5 hours from me on a vehicle I have not owned in almost 2 years. They indicate a billing period of 1/27/2017-02/26/2017.
I called to speak with NTTA and I have to say, I have never dealt with people like this.
NTTA indicated if ownership was in question, I needed to speak with DMV. I now know that this was their bluff and no matter what DMV said, they expected payment.
I spoke with the DMV on 3/9/2017 and they indicated that I INDEED submitted my Vehicle Transfer Notification on April 17, 2015 (The exact night the vehicle was sold). DMV was actually very helpful and submitted a letter with the VIN and vehicle information confirming I released ownership in April of 2015. I sent this letter along with other supporting emails proving I have not owned that vehicle in years.
They claimed DMV did not have the authority to dictate ownership of the vehicle and the tolls were my responsibility. I was shocked. They indicate that unless the title history shows the vehicle was switched prior to any alleged violation, I am responsible. DMV does not agree but North Texas Tollway Authority thinks they can over-ride them. I released ownership in 2015 per DMV.
After re-reading the DMV letter to the employee (A man named Michele) three times which states, "If a citation or toll-issuing authority contacts you for parking tickets, toll charges or other violations associated with the buyer's use of the vehicle, please provide them with a copy of this letter to verify you are no longer the responsible party.", he said it is STILL not valid. I requested he speak with DMV regarding this matter and he said he would not be able to do so. I asked to speak to a supervisor three separate times- I was denied this as well.
This is a terrible way to treat people no matter what position of authority you think you are in. I was told my only option was to pay the violations on a vehicle that is not mine, or they will add fees for being late on payment.
#2Author of original report
Mon, March 13, 2017
I was contacted by a NTTA employee after posting this and was told I should be issued a refund on payment. I will update once a refund is received.