California Driver Caught Using Plastic Skeleton to Bypass Carpool Lane Rules

The sedan, spotted in San Jose, featured a plastic skeleton adorned with a ghost face mask, crafted to mimic a human head.Photo byCHP

SAN JOSE – A driver attempting to use a plastic skeleton as a passenger in the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane was stopped by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in a humorous yet serious violation of carpool regulations. The incident was shared on CHP’s Facebook page, highlighting the creative but ill-advised attempt to circumvent traffic laws.

The sedan, spotted in San Jose, featured a plastic skeleton adorned with a ghost face mask, crafted to mimic a human head. CHP officials emphasized the importance of adhering to HOV lane requirements, stating, “It’s important to remember that decorations being transported in the passenger seat do not qualify to meet carpool requirements.”

Under California law, violating HOV lane rules can result in a hefty fine. According to Caltrans, the minimum ticket for an HOV lane violation is $490, with fines potentially increasing for repeat offenders.