HOV and Carpool Lanes – Know the Rules
Nevada law allows for the creation of High Occupancy Vehicle Lanes (“HOV”) and Carpool Lanes. In Las Vegas, HOV and Carpool Lanes span from Ann Road, in the northwest part of town, and conclude at the Spaghetti Bowl.
The overall goal of HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes is to reduce peak period travel time in comparison to the general purpose lanes. HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes serve many purposes, both from a community and an individual perspective. For individuals, HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes help save time, provide a more reliable commute, save money on fuel, and reduce stress associated with commuting. For the community, HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes: help manage congestion, allow for a better use of infrastructure, encourage mass transit by prioritizing access, providing transportation choices, and support mobility.
Pursuant to NRS 484A.460, a High Occupancy Vehicle is one that is:
- Transporting more than one person
- A motorcycle, regardless of the number of passengers
- A bus, regardless of the number of passengers
- Any other vehicle designated by regulation
HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes have restricted hours of operation. The rules are in effect Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. During all other hours, the HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes are available to all drivers, without restriction or limitation. Unlike the I-15 Express Lanes, HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes are continuously available to drivers. In other words, drivers can cross solid white lines to enter and exit HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes at any time.
Not knowing the rules can cost you. It is illegal to drive in the HOV Lanes and Carpool Lanes without the required vehicle type and number of passengers. Doing so could result in a misdemeanor and $250.00 fine for each offense.
Let’s all make an extra effort to be safe and courteous on the roads – and arrive alive.
