Virginia Police Plan to Patrol HOV Lanes More Heavily

The Virginia State Police will be patrolling the high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes throughout the state more heavily for the next few weeks. The increase in patrolling is reportedly a response to numerous commuter complaints. The State Police plan to focus on stopping and citing speeders as well as drivers committing HOV violations.

Drivers who regularly use the HOV lanes are encouraged to follow the posted speed limit and abide by the high occupancy vehicle lane restrictions. During HOV operating hours, vehicles carrying the designated number of people, usually 2 to 3, can use the lanes. According to the Virginia Department of Transportation, all vehicles may use the lanes during non-restricted times.

Other exceptions apply to the use of Virginia’s high occupancy vehicle lanes. For example, motorcycles are permitted to use the HOV lanes at anytime. Also, certain hybrid vehicles displaying clean fuel license plates may use the lanes with less than the specified number of occupants riding in their vehicle. For a complete listing of the rules and regulations that apply to the use of Virginia’s HOV lanes, visit the Virginia Department of Transportation’s website.