CHP, cameras on the lookout for express lane cheaters

Q I have a question about express lanes. Is it based on an honor system? What is to stop someone from setting their newstyle transponder to 2 or 3 passengers to avoid or discount their express lane charge? It seems like there will be a lot of folks dodging the full fee.

— Chris B., El Sobrante

A Initially, there may be some cheating, but that could ease over time. All FasTrak drivers must have a transponder, which detects cars in that lane. Tolls will help pay for CHP patrols and cameras to deter cheating. A flex tag set it on “3” allows drivers of cars with three or more people and motorcyclists to ride free. A transponder set on “2” for a carpool of two people will get the driver a discount.

Q

DMV guru, please help.

My 16-year old son had a driving test appointment on June 3 that was canceled, but it hasn’t been rescheduled. It’s not possible to talk online or with a live person at the

DMV so I cannot determine if or when it will be rescheduled, or if it will be in a location that I select. His permit expires in October. I assume that extra time will be allotted.

— Sean McGraw

A The DMV has extended driver’s license permits with an expiration date through Nov. 30 to give student drivers more time to prepare and schedule their behind-the-wheel test during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Eligible permits will be extended six months, or 24 months from the date of application, whichever is earlier. The DMV has alerted law enforcement of the extensions, which require no individual action on the part of the driver. The DMV has rescheduled most appointments that had been canceled and begun offering appointments for new behind-the-wheel tests, but it will take some time to clear the backlog.

Q

I have been in the express lanes at 70 mph only to have someone come up behind me at an estimated speed of 80 mph. They then proceed to tailgate me. There was a double white line to my right. What is the correct thing to do?

— Horace Hines,

San Jose

A Keep your pace or move over a lane when there is a dashed white line, and it is safe to do so.

Q I am under 70, and have my renewal letter from the DMV that said that I needed to come to the office for renewal, and to get an eye test. I was happy to get the news that I can renew online. I did this, paid the fee, and I’m done.

— Roger M.

ADone and relieved.

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