How to use ETC during free highway periods?
2 Answers
For free highway periods, ETC users should choose ETC lanes for both entry and exit to avoid charges; manual lanes for both entry and exit also won't incur fees; entering via manual lane and exiting via ETC lane may cause issues as there's no entry information, potentially preventing the exit barrier from lifting; entering via ETC lane and exiting via manual lane is allowed without charges. ETC usage precautions: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. When the vehicle ahead is stationary, maintain a distance of over 10 meters to prevent automatic payment for the preceding vehicle in case its ETC device is faulty or absent. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20km/h. Exceeding this speed may prevent reading of vehicle device information, leading to failed transactions. Unauthorized removal or movement of OBU devices, or detachment/loosening of ETC electronic tags will deactivate the tags. These can be inspected at the bank where the ETC card was issued or at highway service centers. Non-deliberate loosening or detachment only requires reactivation.
During toll-free periods like national holidays, using the ETC lane is super easy. As someone who frequently takes long-distance trips, I've found you can simply drive through the ETC channel as usual - the barrier will automatically lift, the system records but doesn't charge, making it completely free. The key is ensuring your device works properly: check your ETC tag has sufficient battery and your card has no outstanding fees to avoid getting stuck at the entrance. Traffic is often congested during free periods, but ETC lets you bypass long manual toll queues, saving time and improving safety. I make it a habit to check weather forecasts and highway notifications in advance to confirm free period start/end times, avoiding unnecessary trips outside the window. Overall, developing an ETC habit makes travel not just worry-free and economical, but also smoother and more enjoyable.