Drivers facing bumper-to-bumper traffic and delays are encouraged to use I-17 as an alternate route or allow extra travel time, especially during rush hour. Drivers who rely on State Route 51 (SR 51) as part of their daily commute may need to leave a little extra time or consider taking a different route. During rush hour, the far left lane operates as a carpool lane, but ADOT and the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) confirmed that anyone can use the HOV lane within the construction zone at any time. "The likelihood of being stopped as a solo driver in the HOV lane right in this area is going to be very low. Drivers who cannot avoid SR 51 should give themselves plenty of extra time, especially during rush hour.