What are high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes designated for?

High-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes are specifically designated for vehicles carrying multiple passengers. The purpose of HOV lanes is to encourage carpooling, thereby reducing traffic congestion and promoting more efficient use of roadways. By allowing only vehicles with multiple occupants in these lanes, transportation authorities aim to maximize the number of people transported per vehicle, which can help decrease the number of single-occupant vehicles on the road during peak travel times.

The focus on passenger capacity reflects a broader strategy to improve traffic flow and environmental sustainability while providing an incentive for commuters to share rides. In contrast, lanes designated for only single-occupant vehicles or restricted to specific vehicle types like commercial vehicles or taxis do not align with the purpose of HOV lanes.