The 95 Express lane started off with a rocky start this year. Confusion seemed to be wide-spread regarding where the express lane would end, who could get on, how to get off…and so on. There were numerous accidents on the first day the lane was opened. The lane had always been there, the only difference made was the small dividing sticks that separated the lane from the regular traffic. Those who were accustomed to taking this lane and exiting whenever they please were put in much distress once they realized they could not exit until the Golden Glades. And many of these drivers ignored the caution signs that were blinking “No Exit Until Golden Glades.” And so the horror began. Drivers trying to exit between the small lane dividers, thinking they would be averting the disastrous long route they had not intended to take, instead found themselves involved in a high speed crash as oncoming traffic would plummeted towards them.
But, that aside, the 95 Express was intended to relieve traffic, not create more confusion and accidents. And as time has passed, drivers have become more accustomed to the lane and its purpose. Once the Department of Transportation had confirmed that the lane could work, preparation to increase its effectiveness had begun. Drivers will soon be asking themselves, “How much am I willing to pay to get out of this traffic?” The 95 Express toll will be a fluctuating toll, and will depend on the level of congestion. Reportedly it will range from .25 to $2.65, and possibly more than $6 during unusually congested times. But for those that are used to driving rush hour in Miami may ask themselves, when is it not unusually congested? 
The toll is completely automated, so in order to use it you must have a Sunpass meter in your car. Motorcycles, certain hybrid vehicles, and registered vanpools or carpools will be exempt from the tool. The 95 Express website provides more information on how to register your vehicle.
The Department of Transportation has high hopes that this lane will not only provide an alternate option for drivers stuck in traffic, but also help alleviate the current traffic that builds up on 95. Anyone that plans on using the lane should be aware that you cannot exit prior to the Golden Glades Interchange, and even if you find yourself mistakenly in the lane, you must continue until the end.
Friday, December 5th, marked the first day that tolls will began for the new lane, so from now on have your Sunpass ready, and be prepared to pay the price to skip the traffic on 95!
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