We actually have two questions this week from readers wondering about HOV lanes. Specifically, they want to know about those lanes on Interstate 405, SR 167 and on I-90 and SR 520 (east of I-405.) Those are only enforced between 5 a.m. and 7 p.m.
So during the hours in which these lanes are no longer restricted, which lane technically becomes the passing lane? Is it the far left, usually carpool lane? Or the second to left, usually passing lane? Logic would dictate the carpool lane becomes the passing lane. Christina
Renton
Christina's logic is sound -- and correct. According to WSPspokesman Dan Coon, the HOV lane should be treated as the far left lane, or the passing lane, during those hours when the HOV rules are not being enforced.
When HOV lanes are open to all traffic, they should be treated like a regular left-side freeway lane. Left-side freeway lanes are normally reserved for passing, so are only to be used to pass, Coon said.
RCW46.61.100 goes deeper into the rules about passing lanes, although you won't find any specific mention of HOVlanes. So, go with what Coon says.
Is it legal to use a carpool exit off the freeway during the hours that the carpool lanes are not in effect?
Jake
Kenmore
The answer is no, Jake.
Although Eastside freeway HOV lanes are open to all traffic at night, direct access ramps are still restricted to HOVs at all times, is what the Washington StateDepartment of Transportation website says about this rule.
That means only carpools, vanpools, buses, motorcycles and emergency vehicles are permitted on direct access HOV ramps, no matter what time of day it is.
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(And you can feel free to ask about something besides traffic.)
