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Toll Concessions for Disabled Drivers: How to Save on River Crossings, Bridges, and Tunnels
Written by
Georgina, Founder of Purpl
Published on
December 27, 2024
Hi, I’m Georgina, founder of Purpl Disabled Discounts. I understand the financial challenges that come with living with a disability and want to help our community offset those costs through our disabled discount codes and offers as well as keeping you updated on disability benefits designed to make life easier whilst also reducing your outgoings.
Did you know that if you’re disabled, you may not have to pay the full toll fare at some river crossings, bridges, and tunnels across the UK? While tolls can add up, many operators offer concessions or exemptions to make travel more accessible for disabled drivers and passengers. However, in most cases, you must apply in advance to benefit from these savings.
Here’s everything you need to know about toll concessions for disabled people and how to take advantage of them.
In This Article
- Who is Eligible for Toll Concessions?
- Where Can You Get Toll Concessions?
- How to Apply for a Toll Concession
- Why Should You Apply?
- Take Action Today
- Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Eligible for Toll Concessions?
Eligibility for toll discounts or exemptions is generally based on certain disability-related criteria. You may qualify if you have any of the following:
- Blue Badge
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement
The exact eligibility requirements can vary depending on the toll operator, so it’s important to check the specific rules for the crossing you intend to use.
Where can you get Toll Concessions?
Concessions and exemptions are available on several major crossings, tunnels, and bridges across the UK. Examples include:
- Dartford Crossing (Dart Charge): Disabled drivers can apply for exemption, but this must be done in advance.
- Mersey Gateway Bridge: Concessions are available for eligible individuals, and applications must be submitted through the official Merseyflow website.
- Humber Bridge: Offers toll exemptions for disabled drivers who meet the criteria.
- Various other private and public toll roads, tunnels, and river crossings also offer discounts or free access.
The full list of applicable tolls and their policies is available on the official GOV.UK website.
How to Apply for a Toll Concession
To benefit from a toll concession, you’ll typically need to:
- Check Eligibility: Review the specific requirements for the toll operator or crossing you plan to use. Eligibility criteria may differ slightly.
- Complete an Application: Most operators require you to apply in advance to access the concession. This often involves filling out an application form.
- Provide Supporting Documents: You will usually need to submit proof of your eligibility, such as:
- Your Blue Badge
- A letter confirming your DLA, PIP, or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement entitlement
- Vehicle registration details
- Await Confirmation: Once approved, you can use the concession at the specified crossing or toll road.
Why Should You Apply?
Tolls on bridges, tunnels, and crossings can be costly over time, particularly for frequent travelers. If you meet the eligibility requirements, applying for toll concessions could save you significant amounts of money while ensuring that travel remains accessible and stress-free.
For disabled individuals and their families, these concessions represent an important step in reducing barriers to mobility and improving accessibility across the UK’s road networks. It is also a small way to save money and offset the huge extra costs of living as a disabled person in the UK.
Take Action Today
If you’re disabled and think you might qualify for a toll concession, don’t wait! Check the requirements for the crossings you use and apply in advance. Visit the GOV.UK toll concession page for detailed information and links to specific toll operators.
By taking advantage of these schemes, you can save money and make travel simpler, all while ensuring that accessibility remains a priority. Travel with ease. Apply today and let the journey begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which tolls have concessions available?
Visit the GOV.UK toll concession page for detailed information and links to specific toll operators.
Am I eligible to get toll concessions?
The exact eligibility requirements can vary depending on the toll operator, so it’s important to check the specific rules for the crossing you intend to use. But you may be eligible if you:
- Hold a Blue Badge.
- Receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
- Receive the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
- Are in receipt of the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement.
Can I get a concession on the Humber Bridge?
The full list of applicable tolls and their policies is available on the official GOV.UK website.
Georgina’s Guides to Saving Money as a Disabled Person
Understanding Car Tax Discounts for Disabled People
Benefits of the Disabled Person’s Railcard
Personal Independence Payments (PIP) – Information and How to Apply Guide
