What do you think about the HOV lanes on I-75? The Michigan Department of Transportation wants to hear from you.
Throughout June, they are asking drivers familiar with the stretch to share their thoughts about the HOV lanes.
MDOT’s Bob Morosi told Local 4 they’re interested in gathering information on how many people are using it, what times of day, and if it’s convenient.
They’ve gotten some responses so far, and he says they’ve been hearing some confusion among motorists.
“Some people are confused about the difference between HOV and the flex lane, said Morosi.
The flex lane is closed during peak traffic, while the HOV lanes are reserved for two or more people five days a week, between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
“All the other hours, the 18 hours of the day and weekends, so many how many occupants you have, you can use them,” said John McCarty.
McCarty says he doesn’t really use them.
“I kind of wish they’d just do away with it,” McCarty said.
He described high-traffic times when the HOV lanes are reserved while other lanes on I-75 are backed up.
McCarty also sees drivers without passengers using the HOV lane during its operating hours.
“Ohhh, sometimes you see people, and they’re in there driving because it’s a little bit faster, but what are you going to do?” McCarty said.
Michigan State Police say they do enforce the HOV lane when troopers observe people skirting the rules.
“If a Trooper is in the area and they see you violating one of the HOV lanes, they’re going to stop you and have a conversation; sometimes, how it goes, it’s a warning, other times it’s a ticket,” said Lt. Mike Shaw.