On the UDOT express lane website, the first line on the page gives the purpose for Utah’s express lanes. “UDOT’s express lanes maximize speed and reliability” for eligible drivers. Notice that there is no mention of safety, comfort, or any other reason someone might camp out in the express lane. It is to maximize speed and reliability.

In many states, the express lanes convert to a regular left lane during non-peak hours. Why did they do that? Well, the lanes are designed to encourage people to carpool by being faster and more reliable than typical traffic lanes. Again, it is to maximize speed.

In Utah, the law states that the operator a vehicle traveling in the left lane shall yield to an approaching vehicle by moving safely to the right. They shall not impede the movement of free flow or traffic in the left lane. This is independent of speed and there is no clause that says you are fine as long as you are going the speed limit.

Conclusion - purpose of express lane is to encourage carpooling by maximizing speed. If you are slower than the car behind you, regardless of speed, you should move right when it is safe and legal to do so.

Stubbornly camping in the express lane might not get you pulled over, but it is inconsiderate, inappropriate, and directly contradicts the purpose of these lanes. It also creates an unsafe environment by encouraging other cars to pass you by moving right into a fast left lane.

Don’t be a problem.