Still don’t understand? How to drive in new I-405 express toll lanes
Oct 2, 2015, 5:43 AM | Updated: 10:02 am
Express toll lanes on I-405 have been active all week, yet drivers still are confused by the basics of how to use them. Here's a response to the many questions we're getting. (WSDOT)
(WSDOT)
The express toll lanes on I-405 have been active all week, but yet, many drivers still seem confused by the very basics of how to use them. We’re getting a bunch of emails from listeners who haven’t quite gotten it.
Anyone can use the express toll lanes. Solo driver. Car with two people. A clown car with 20 people. Motorcycles. The lanes are open to everyone.
You do not need to have a pass of any kind to use the lanes. The tolling equipment will scan your license plate and send you a bill in the mail. That option will cost you an extra two dollars.
You can use your existing Good To Go pass. You don’t need to buy a new one.
If a car traveling in the express lanes has three or more people, the ride in the lane is free. You do need to have the new Flex Pass displayed in your windshield to signify this. It is the only way to drive in the lanes for free, unless you plan on cheating.
Yes, free is a relative term. The Flex Pass costs $15, and you have to set up a Good To Go Account with at least $30 on it.
Motorcycles also need to have a pass to get the lanes for free, but they don’t need to set up an account.
Do not cross the double white lines. It is illegal and it is very dangerous. There are designated areas where you can move in and out of the express toll lanes. I am hearing from a lot of you that those access points do not work for you. The state is looking at moving or modifying them to help you out.
You can no longer move in and out of the lanes at will. Do not just swerve into the express toll lanes when the general purpose lanes come to a sudden halt. I’ve seen too many near misses this week. It’s only a matter of time before that move will end in a nasty crash.
The toll lanes operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The price you see when you enter the express toll lane is what you pay. Even if that price goes up along your trip, that first toll is what you pay. If you get into the lanes as an HOV with two-plus, and the requirement changes to 3-plus along the way, you are fine. You will not be charged.
No, you will not be charged with a separate toll for each segment (or every time you see a new sign).
