An ETC (electronic toll collection) system includes an antenna having a
predetermined directivity for providing a limited radio-communication
service zone. A vehicle sensor operates for detecting a vehicle which
reaches a predetermined position in the limited radio-communication
service zone. A radio signal is transmitted via the antenna. A decision
is made as to whether or not a radio response to the radio signal is
received via the antenna. In cases where a radio response to the radio
signal is received, it is judged that there is an ETC vehicle incoming.
In cases where the vehicle sensor detects a vehicle while a radio
response to the radio signal is not received, it is judged that there is
a non-ETC vehicle incoming.