WSDOT Projects

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How are HOT lanes enforced?

We are partnering with the Washington State Patrol to monitor HOT lane traffic. If a law enforcement officer sees you breaking any of the HOT lane rules you could face $124 or more in fines and a moving violation on your driving record.    

Enforcement            Rules of the Road         HOT Lane Signs


Enforcement   


How will violators be identified?

Overhead sensors
When a solo driver, with a valid Good to GO! transponder, enters the HOT lanes, a light flashes on the overhead sensor. That signals the state patrol that the driver has entered legally. If the light doesn't flash the state patrol will pull over the solo driver an issue a citation.

Self enforcement
Also, a concerned driver can call in a violation through the HERO program if they see a solo driver using the SR 167 HOT lanes illegally with out a Good to Go! transponder.


Where will enforcement officers be?


Enforcement areas will be established along the HOT lane, as close as possible to the tolling areas. These areas provide space to monitor the system as well as space to direct vehicles in violation to safely pull over.

                                                              

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Rules of the Road   


Learn the rules of the road when using the SR 167 HOT Lanes

Who can use the HOT lanes?
Carpools, vanpools, buses and motorcycles may use the HOT lanes toll-free and don't need a transponder. Solo driver with a valid Good To Go! transponder can also use the HOT lanes by paying the posted toll.

Who can't use the HOT lanes?
Solo drivers without a valid Good to Go! transponder and trucks over 10,000 lbs gross vehicle weight regardless of the number of occupants are not allowed to use the HOT lanes.

When can I use the HOT lanes?
The HOT lanes operate daily from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The lanes are open to all traffic toll-free between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m., no transponder necessary.
 
Can I use the HOT lane to pass slow moving vehicles?
No. The HOT lane is not a passing lane. Drivers violating this rule could be charged for several infractions including evading a toll and illegally crossing the double white lines.

Can I cross the double lines?
No, it is illegal for any vehicle to cross the solid double white line. The HOT lane is separated from general purpose lanes by a double white line. All vehicles may enter and exit the HOT lanes only at designated entry points. The rule is necessary for tolling enforcement.

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HOT Lane Signs  


Watch the signs

New signs inform drivers of approaching HOT lane access points a half- mile

 

before each dashed-line entrance zone. These signs and the dashed line indicate where transit, carpools and toll-paying solo drivers may enter and exit the HOT lane. An electronic sign displays the current toll price at each access point. Solo drivers pay one toll per trip at the amount displayed when they first enter the HOT lane.

 Image of VMS Sign 

New signs along HOT lanes

 Image of VMS sign saying closed   image of VMS sign
Image of left lane sign    

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