45 HOV/toll expressway HPD road block

Today was my first time taking the expressway to downtown from 45 north. I got on at airline and noticed that the tollway side was closed and it was only for HOV. I have no idea what times the they allow non HOVs and obviously there is not a place to turn around and not get on after seeing the sign. I thought “it’s my first time, they won’t notice me.” Boy was I wrong. Lol

Just before it spits you out downtown towards Milam, there was a sting operation. Probably 7 cops stopping each vehicle and giving warnings/tickets to everyone who doesn’t have 2+ people in the car.

How often do they do this sort of thing? Is it a common occurrence or did just get extremely unlucky?