Crime & Safety
Ask a Cop: Does My Baby Qualify Me for the Carpool Lane?
Can I take the carpool lane if I have a sleeping baby or preschool-aged child in the car with me?
Article writtenĀ byĀ Brad Kava
Question:Ā A reader asked if kids qualify them for the carpool lane, since kids don't drive and don't take a driver off the road, which is the intention of the law.
What do you think? Make your best guess before reading the answer.
Answer: Good news, mom, fromĀ California Highway Patrol Officer Bradley Sadek:Ā
Yes, a child does qualify as a passenger in the HOV Lane.Ā
Commonly referred to as a āCarpool Lane,ā legally they are designated as āHigh Occupancy Vehicle Lanesā (HOV). The number of occupants required is indicated by signs that accompany the lane. This number varies around the state between two and three personsĀ (regardless of age).
Another quick note, many drivers donāt read the signs! The signs accompanying HOV lanes indicate two things, how many occupants a vehicle must have to use the designated lane, and during which Ā times that restriction applies.Ā
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Apart from the indicated times, the HOV lane can be used by all non-commercial traffic. There are, however, a few HOV lanes throughout the state that do not have applicable times and are in effect 24/7. Ā Soā¦ avoid a fine, read the sign.
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