Can I still use the manual lane if I have ETC?

[LaBraxton]

Vehicles with ETC can use the manual lanes on highways, just like regular vehicles using manual lanes, by queuing up to take a card. There are two ways to take a card in the manual lane: one is where a professional staff member hands you the card, and the other is where the driver self-serves by taking the card from the card dispenser. When passing through the toll station, it is essential to slow down and proceed in an orderly manner, avoiding any congestion caused by cutting in line. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, which refers to the electronic toll system. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and driving license. If the application is made by someone other than the owner, the agent's valid ID card must also be provided. The photocopy of the driving license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway toll fees is required. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old, and the vehicle must be registered under their name. How ETC works: Through an onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. Using computer networking technology, it settles transactions with the bank in the background, allowing vehicles to pay highway or bridge tolls without stopping when passing through toll stations. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Reduces noise and exhaust emissions by allowing vehicles to pass through toll stations without stopping; Cost-effective: Reduces wear and tear and fuel consumption by minimizing vehicle starts and stops; Improved efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase passage efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC faster, more advanced, and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.

[MacMiranda]

Of course, you can use the manual lane! I've been driving for ten years with an ETC card in my car, but sometimes I choose the manual payment lane, such as when the ETC device suddenly runs out of battery or has poor signal. The ETC system is designed to be flexible, and drivers have every right to decide which lane to take without worrying about conflicts. Just remember to manually remove the ETC card or inform the toll collector to disable the automatic deduction function before entering the manual lane to avoid duplicate charges. I've had a similar experience before—once I forgot to remove the card in the manual lane and was mistakenly charged, which took a lot of effort to resolve later. The main advantage of ETC is saving queuing time, especially during peak hours, with faster speeds and potential discounts. But the manual lane is also quite convenient, especially for beginners who feel more at ease seeing the actual toll process. In short, the highway gives us plenty of options—just keep your device maintained and prioritize safety.

[DeQuinn]

Absolutely! I've been using ETC for several years. When taking the highway, I sometimes switch to the manual toll lane if there's a shorter queue. While ETC automatic deduction is convenient, manual payment allows for face-to-face confirmation of the amount, which feels more transparent. Once during a trip, my ETC device malfunctioned, and I simply switched to the manual lane, paid in cash, without any issues. Having ETC doesn't mean you're locked in; the system is designed for flexibility. However, I recommend getting into the habit of regularly checking your ETC device, like the battery and the placement of the sticker, to ensure it works properly. ETC usually offers discounts, is faster, and hassle-free. But occasionally, the manual lane is nice too, especially when traveling with family—kids might be curious about the toll process, so it's a good choice. Ultimately, the choice is in the driver's hands. Don't worry about your ETC card being invalid; just be careful not to activate the device in the manual lane.

[McSpencer]

You can still pass through even with an ETC device installed. As a commuter who frequently uses highways, the manual lane is another option. The system is designed to be compatible with both methods. For example, if your vehicle has ETC but you choose the manual lane, the toll collector will handle it manually. However, be cautious to avoid accidental fee deductions by manually turning it off or taking a card. ETC offers many benefits like speed and efficiency, but I switch to manual if it saves time. Regular maintenance of the device is all that's needed.