The DOT's Leslie Forbis is the HOV operations engineer. She said: “Solo drivers on I-405 are not allowed to use HOV direct access on- and off-ramps during off-peak hours. The direct access ramps were not designed to handle large amounts of traffic, but rather provide buses, carpools and vanpools with direct access to area park and rides.

Allowing all drivers to use these ramps, even during off-peak hours, may cause traffic congestion and create a safety hazard for drivers. Additionally, allowing all drivers to use the direct access ramps would eliminate the benefit to drivers who choose to carpool, vanpool and ride the bus during off-peak hours.

Unless posted otherwise, like on Eastside freeways, HOV time restrictions are in place 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

More information at wsdot.wa.gov