Can school and metro buses legally use the HOV lane if they are empty?

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By Rachelle Murcia

Story Published: Apr 16, 2009 at 10:39 AM PST

Story Updated: Apr 16, 2009 at 10:39 AM PST

This is a great question and one that I had to go to the DOT to find the answer. They tell me, “Empty buses are allowed to use the HOV lane. According the WAC on HOV's, buses with a carrying capacity of sixteen or more persons, including the operator are allowed to use the HOV lanes." It only has to have the carrying capacity of sixteen or more passengers, not actually being carrying that many.”

So apparently even though it’s empty, buses are still high occupancy vehicles and they are allowed.

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