For Torontonians who drive to work alone, the city's temporary Pan Am HOV lanes have meant frustratingly long commutes during the Games.
But for carpoolers, packing in a couple extra passengers is providing a big advantage on the road.
One Toronto driver recently shot a time-lapse of their daily drive down the HOV lane.
In the sped-up footage, the car whizzes past 800 other vehicles stalled on commuter-clogged highways. The 30-kilometre trip takes the driver, who identifies himself on YouTube as Eddie Ho, westbound from downtown Toronto to Oakville, along the Gardiner Expressway and Queen Elizabeth Way.
HOV lanes on the Gardiner and QEW have been in effect since June 29. They are also in place on Lake Shore Boulevard, Highways 401, 404 and 427, and a portion of Jane Street, north of Steeles Avenue.
Vehicles that can use the HOV lanes include:
- Accredited Games vehicles used to transport athletes, officials, media, etc. (vehicles had to be registered with Pan Am officials in December, and must display a pass issued by the Pan Am organizers)
- Vehicles with three or more occupants (from June 29 to July 27)
- Vehicles with two or more occupants (from July 28 to Aug. 18)
- Emergency vehicles
- Public transit
- Licensed taxis and limousines
- Electric vehicles with green licence plates
Drivers who do not fit these categories face up to a $110 ticket and three demerit points if they use the designated lanes.
