The Arizona Department of Transportation and Department of Public Safety are teaming up to keep solo drivers out of the HOV lanes during rush hours. Drivers will see 250 new signs across the Phoenix-area letting them know they could face fines exceeding $400 in fines for driving alone.
Doug Nintzel with ADOT said the signs will add a sharp message to rule violators wallets.
“Our reason for going with this new sign program is really to have a deterrent affect. Some drivers may not even know that they could be facing this minimum if $400 in fines and court fees,” he said.
Freeways with HOV lanes already have signs stating the hours when HOV restrictions apply. Carpool hours only are 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
And Nintezel said, no, mannequins still don’t count as passengers in the HOV lane during rush hour.
