I was not able to search an answer for this. The HOV stickers let Prius owners use the HOV lanes, but does it also allow us to bypass the traffic control lights on the freeway on ramps? I always stay in the single lane and wait to get on the freeway instead of using the "Diamond Lane" entrance and I have never seen a single occupant Prius go by. Anyone know the law on this?
I noticed only a couple of on ramps that have the diamond lane. However, there was a sign above the ramp saying the diamond lane was closed. I think the safest bet is to go into a local police station and ask the policy. Marvin
I use the diamond lane when ever I see it. On ramps, etc. with no problems. Have even had the CHP sitting there looking at me when I have flown by them (65MPH). As far as stopping into a police station and asking them, good luck. If you were to ask anyone, make it the CHP and make sure you get the officer's name so when you do get a ticket you have a defense. Most street cops know speeding, red lights, stop signs, etc., but the wierd sections are probably going to trip them up and they will just give you their best guess. Remember they are not lawyers, just cops, with an average education of high school and maybe (hopefully) a couple of years of college. (That is not a slam on cops by the way, just an observation based upon a 25 year career.)
YES! It's in the law . . . at least in California. [not sure if other clean air sticker states have metered ramps ] HOV Lanes: Use By Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles 21655.9. (a) (1) Whenever the Department of Transportation or a local authority authorizes or permits exclusive or preferential use of highway lanes or highway access ramps for high-occupancy vehicles pursuant to Section 21655.5, the use of those lanes or ramps shall also be extended to vehicles that are issued distinctive decals, labels, or other identifiers pursuant to Section 5205.5 regardless of vehicle occupancy or ownership. http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/d11/vc21655_9.htm
