Croatian highway tolls will go up again in the summer

The Croatian Motorways Management Company (HAC) has announced that it will reintroduce the seasonal tariff this summer, resulting in 10 percent higher tolls between July 1 and September 30. However, this decision does not apply to heavy vehicles such as buses and trucks.

The introduction of seasonal tolls is not new; they were first introduced in 2017. However, in the last four years, these fees have been suspended due to the coronavirus epidemic and the economic crisis, as part of the government's package of measures aimed at supporting citizens and the economy. According to the announcement of the HAC, the introduction of seasonal tolls is necessary for certain vehicle categories, since about 40 percent of the annual traffic takes place in the summer months.

As a result, maintenance, security, surveillance and traffic management costs increase significantly during this period. Motorists can still use discounts if they have an electronic ENC device. This tool provides a 21 percent discount in the summer season and a 33 percent discount in the off-season. ENC devices can be purchased at the offices next to the toll gates at a price of 15 euros and can also be topped up with cash.

Any amount can be added to them, which can be used even in the following year. By using the ENC device, you can avoid queuing at the cash payment gates, as you can pass through the gates marked ENC within a few minutes. Simply hold the device near the windshield, and when it reaches the barrier, the device will beep and the gate will open. Driving off the highway is registered by the device and the appropriate amount is deducted from the device, which also displays how much money is left on it.