As many tank truck drivers know all too well, the infamous Washington Beltway I-495 serves as both a key leg of I-95 and as a local commuter route among Washington DC’s suburbs. However, the opening of “express lanes” has made that roadway even more challenging, according to National Tank Truck Carriers officials.
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is encouraging truckers driving through Northern Virginia to prepare for the major traffic changes. Truckers are urged to learn the rules of the road before driving through the new Express Lanes corridor.
Vehicles with three or more axles are prohibited on the Express Lanes. If vehicles with three or more axles enter the Express Lanes, they could be ticketed by the Virginia State Police. Vehicles with two axles may use the Express Lanes but will need an E-ZPass tag, because there are no toll booths or options to pay cash. Vehicles with two axles carrying three or more people will need the new E-ZPass FlexSM for a toll-free trip on the Express Lanes.
VDOT and the Virginia State Police are implementing improvements near the southern end of the Express Lanes. Drivers can expect to see additional colored reflectors to the channelizing posts (white barriers), updated digital message signs, extended merge areas and transitional striping. Drivers should take extra caution when driving in this area. There already have been a series of accidents as some drivers swerve at the last minute to avoid going into the Express Lanes and others even back up once they realize they are in the lanes.