If you are planning on driving through Missouri City, Texas, be cautious.
The Houston suburb has implemented a "crash tax" that requires drivers to pay a fee for their wrecks, according to KHOU 11 News in Texas.
The fee is meant to cover the cost of first responders who handle auto accidents. The charge can cost drivers a couple thousand dollars.
Missouri City's Fire Department will begin charging for traffic accident service on March 1.
"That really ticks me,” said Missouri City resident Meredith Johnson. “I can't believe that. That's crazy!"
All drivers involved with the incident will be charged, even if they didn't phone for help.
"I think of how often they show up. I see them show up and everyone's walking around. I'm freaking out,” said Johnson.
The amount of the charge depends on how severe the accident is, ranging from $500 to a staggering $2,000, according to KHOU 11 News. The fees target drivers responsible for accidents, but not everyone feels the fee will be effective.
"Everything's ridiculous right now,” said Vicky, a driver in Missouri City. “Everybody's out to make money — especially the government.”
Fire Chief Russell Sander says the new fee will help cover the city's budget deficit. When asked to address concern over the charge, he said, "“They're not going to see something sent to their house.”
According to Sander, bills are sent to insurance and shouldn't concern drivers.
A third party company handles the billing for the new fee and estimates say that the city will gain an extra $50,000 a year with the new measure.
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