Good to see you're still above ground. Been there, crashed in '89 on I-285 on way to work at 6am, mangled knee and lots of road rash, made it back on two wheels in 5 months. I understand the merge and accelerate to the HOV. Out here they jump in and out of HOV at will, no matter the cops or rules. Recently relocated to Mesa, AZ and have seen 5 bikers down in 5 weeks.
Take your time and get better, another bike is in your future.