Motorcyclists in California can travel on some express lanes for free. On many of these lanes, riders would need a transponder to be allowed in the express lane. In some cities, they could have to pay a fee to ride as a vehicle with a solo occupant.
How Do California Express Lanes Work for Drivers?
Express lanes are extra lanes on some California freeways meant for vehicles that carry more than one person. They are sometimes known as “carpool lanes.” They usually take the form of one or two extra lanes to the left of normal lanes. Express lanes allow drivers to enjoy a few lanes with less traffic.
These specially marked lanes are intended to reduce the number of cars on the road. They also reward travelers for teaming up and using one car to transport more than one passenger. The benefit of fewer cars for the environment is another plus.
On many stretches, participants get a transponder so they can enter the number of people in the car. The vehicles are scanned and monitored to make sure they qualify when in the lanes. On many freeways, solo drivers are also allowed to jump into an express lane, but they’ll be asked to pay a fee for this privilege.
Where Can California Motorcyclists Travel Express Lanes for Free?
Motorcycles usually carry only one person, but they are sometimes allowed to ride for free on express highways. This benefit is offered in some locations in part because motorcycles create less wear on road surfaces, and due to express lanes providing a safer trip for riders.
In some places, riders can veer into express zones with no requirements. In other places, they can ride for free, but must sign up for express lane operators and carry a transponder.
These are a few places around big cities where motorcyclists are welcome in express lanes:
- Motorcyclists in Los Angeles County can use the express lanes on I-10 and I-110 for free and don’t need a transponder. That’s according to the company that oversees the express lanes, Metro ExpressLanes.
- Motorcyclists are allowed to use express lanes on the 405 in Orange County as long as they have a transponder. That’s according to the Orange County Transportation Authority.
- Motorcyclists in the Bay Area need a FasTrak Flex transponder to use local express lanes for free. Sections of I-680, I-580, I-880, US 101, and I-80, and State Route 237 have express lanes available.
- San Diego offers free use to motorcyclists on many area express lanes like those found on I-15 and State Route 125. Riders don’t need a FastTrak transponder to use the service. You can visit the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) page for more info.
- Sacramento has no express lanes in place yet, but they are going in on I-80 and US 50. You can visit Capital Regional Area Tolling Authority (CARTA) for updates. They should be ready to use in 2028. It’s expected that motorcycles in the city will be able to utilize the lanes for free.
Contact a California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer If You Are Hurt by a Careless Driver
Whether motorcyclists are in less congested express lanes or not, they are always under threat from careless California drivers.
Motorcyclists who are seriously hurt in a collision caused by a driver may need help forcing car insurance companies to pay full recovery compensation.
Maison Law’s California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers offer a free, no-obligation case consultation to all injured riders. If we can help you earn more for your injuries, you won’t have to worry about how you’ll pay a lawyer at such a difficult time. Maison Law doesn’t accept payment unless we win your case for you. Then our fee comes out of the settlement that a car insurance company must write for you.
