Pursuing Compensation for an HOV Lane Accident in Melville

HOV lane liability can be relatively complex in New York. If you crashed while traveling in the HOV lane, there may be many unresolved questions over your right to be in the lane – and the other motorist’s potential fault. To approach this situation confidently, consider working with an experienced HOV lane accident lawyer in Melville.

Who Is Allowed to Drive in an HOV Lane?

 HOV lanes are reserved for specific vehicles. First, you can drive in an HOV lane if you have at least one passenger with you. Some HOV lanes have a “3+” label, indicating that at least three occupants are required instead of the normal two. Buses are generally allowed to drive in HOV lanes You can also drive in an HOV lane if you ride a motorcycle under federal law. Some low-emission and energy-efficient vehicles may qualify, as long as they have the proper stickers.

Who Is Not Allowed to Drive in an HOV Lane? 

The Freeway Management Program states that some vehicles are always barred from HOV lanes. These may include semi-trucks, tow trucks, and other commercial vehicles. Note that taxis and rideshare vehicles are eligible even if they are “commercial,” but only if they carry passengers.

What if I Crashed With a Driver Who Wasn’t Supposed to Be in the HOV Lane? 

If you crashed into a driver who wasn’t supposed to be in the HOV lane, it may be easier to pursue positive outcomes in your injury claim. An HOV lane violation is a relatively minor traffic offense, leading to a $100 fine and two points added to a license. If the other driver was violating HOV lane laws at the time of the crash, this could indicate fault.

What if I Crashed While Illegally Using an HOV Lane?

 If you crashed your vehicle while unlawfully using an HOV lane, it might be more challenging to pursue positive outcomes during an injury claim. However, one should remember that New York is a no-fault state – and your level of fault may therefore be irrelevant. If you suffered serious injuries and you need to file a personal injury claim, you may still be able to pursue positive outcomes even if you were partially at fault. This is especially true if the other driver committed a more serious traffic violation prior to the crash.

 Key Takeaways 

• HOV lanes are reserved for cars with two or more occupants
• HOV lanes may also be used by cyclists, motorcycles, buses, emergency vehicles, and some EVs
• An HOV lane violation can result in a fine of up to $100 and two points added to a license

 Can a Melville Car Accident Lawyer Help Me? 

A Melville car accident lawyer may be able to help if you have suffered an injury while traveling in an HOV lane. These collisions can be quite complex and difficult to unravel, especially if you have suffered some kind of head injury or memory loss. Rest assured that the experienced injury attorneys at Cohan Law, PLLC can help you determine the most appropriate course of action in this scenario. Contact us today to get started.

Sources: 

ops.fhwa.dot.gov/freewaymgmt/faq.htm#:~:text=Motorcycles%20and%20on%2Dduty%20blood,HOT%20lane%20%E2%80%93%20are%20may%20permissions.

portal.311.nyc.gov/article/?kanumber=KA-02801