Okay, so you’re driving through Miami and you’re planning on using the highways. That’s definitely not a surprise because those highways (like the I-95) will absolutely get you everywhere. But what about the express lanes? What can you do with those? If you’re not sure then you’re in the right place, because we’re going to take a closer look right now. 

What is the Express Lane? 

The short answer is that Miami express lanes are special lanes that are meant to get you where you’re going a whole lot faster than taking the standard lanes. These lanes offer fewer exits, which means you’re going to hop on and stay there for a longer period of time. You won’t have traffic entering and exiting frequently (which can slow you down). 

The express lane is great for those who are traveling longer distances on the highway and who want to get there as quickly as possible. But there are some rules to keep in mind when you’re traveling this way. So let’s take a look at what you need to know. 

Starting Out with the Right Vehicle

First up, you need to make sure that you have a great vehicle to take with you on your trip. If you want to rent, you can find the best of the best in luxury vehicles with RealCar Miami’s extensive options to choose from. You’ll find a little of everything that you want and you’ll be able to travel all over the Miami area with ease.

If you want to rent an electric car in Miami is a great place to do it. You can find plenty of them available and you can travel anywhere you want to. And with an electric vehicle you’re going to be doing your part to protect the environment as well. But what you’re really interested in isn’t the vehicle, right? You’re looking for more information about where you’re going with that vehicle, the express lane. 

Rules of the (Express Lane) Road

Okay, the first thing to keep in mind is that this lane is only for people who are looking to go a longer distance. If you’re planning on getting off within an exit or two you do not want to pull into the express lane. You’ll be stuck there a lot longer than you want and that’s going to slow you down in the long run (because you’ll have to backtrack later). 

Unlike standard lanes on the highway, express lanes are lined with plastic poles to ensure no one is able to enter or exit the lane until they reach the designated entrances and exits. This means it is illegal to cut through the poles or attempt to drive over them. It’s also not safe for you or anyone else on the road.

When you drive in an express lane or when you drive in a standard lane near an express lane, make sure that you stay in your own lane. Weaving in and out of the express lane is illegal and it’s also extremely dangerous. You or someone else on the road could be hurt by this type of behavior. 

If you’re going to drive in the express lane you are required to have a SunPass. These allow you to go through tolls without having to stop, which is essential if you’re going to take the express lane. There will not be a way for you to get to the pay toll lanes and there is no standard pay-by-plate system within the express lane. That means you need your SunPass set up with an account and ready to go. 

When you’re using express lanes Miami you need to have a two-axle vehicle as well. Two-axle cars and buses are allowed to use this lane but no larger vehicles. The only exception to the rule would be emergency vehicles, which are allowed to use the express lane no matter their size. 

One thing you don’t need in an express lane is a passenger. This is not a carpool lane. The express lane is for anyone who is going to be traveling a distance to get to their destination. It doesn’t matter if there is only one person in the vehicle or if there are multiple. This lane can be used by anyone in an allowed vehicle. 

Keep in mind that express lane fees are variable. They change based on time of day and traffic conditions. So if you’re driving in the express lane during peak hours you’re going to pay more than if you’re driving there during the off-peak hours. Keep this in mind when you’re deciding whether or not to use this lane. Getting there faster may be worth the extra cost, but it might not. 

Entering the Express Lane By Mistake

Now, there is always the chance that you could enter the express lane by mistake. If this happens it is important that you stay calm and watch for the next legal exit from the lane. Do not attempt to drive over the barriers as this puts you and others on the roadway in danger. 

Do not pull over to the side of the lane or stop in the lane. This is also extremely dangerous and could put you and others on the roadway in danger. You must continue driving and look for a legal exit from the lane as soon as possible. 

Finally, if you enter the Express Lane and do not have a SunPass you are still required to pay all tolls. We mentioned there is not a standard pay-by-plate system and that is accurate, but the enforcement beacons are still able to scan your plate. Instead of receiving a regular bill as you would in the standard lanes, you will receive the bill for your tolls as well as a daily violation charge of $25. This is for using the Express Lane without the SunPass. 

Hitting the Open Road

Are you ready to get out there and enjoy your next trip? Well then, all you need to do to get started is find the perfect vehicle rental. You can do that with a Miami Executive Airport luxury car rental from RealCar Miami. You’ll be able to enjoy your trip with a comfortable, sleek, stylish vehicle that definitely showcases everything that you and your road trip buddies are looking for. So why not make the most of your vacation?