State DOTs around the U.S. are including more tolled options in their highway projects, particularly in areas of high congestion. These options sometimes include high-occupancy toll (HOT) lanes. HOT lanes are simply high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes that allow those who do not meet the HOV requirements for free travel to use them for a fee. Also called fast lanes or express lanes, they provide an option for a speedier commute to those who do not meet the carpooling or other HOV standards but are willing to pay for the convenience.
