Driver who received a fine of US$336 for using the passenger lane is fined US$200 – the special passenger is to blame

SOLO riders used to watch enviously as the carpool lane flowed effortlessly while stuck in traffic – until they discovered an illegal hack.

The last passenger never argues and doesn’t have to stop to use the bathroom.

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In Washington state, commuting is no joke — especially when driving to work alone and watching cars in the carpool lane pass other commuters.

For those traveling alone, driving in the carpool lane would be illegal, as the state requires at least two people to be in the car — including the driver — to use the carpool lane.

If someone is in the carpool lane without a passenger, they could receive a $186 ticket, according to Komo News.

Any violation that follows the initial ticket within two years increases to $336 per citation.

To combat slower journeys and use the faster lane, drivers resorted to placing dummies in the passenger seat to avoid fines and traffic.

Photos of the drivers’ perfect passengers showed them wearing clothing that disguised their eyes, such as hats, hoodies or sunglasses.

To tackle crafty ride-sharing violators using dummies, the state is warning drivers that an additional $200 will be added to a fine if a dummy is found in a vehicle during a traffic stop.

That would mean a first-offense fine of $386 for using a dummy.

Washington State Trooper Rick Johnson posted on his X profile a photo of a recent dummy that was found in the passenger seat during a traffic stop (@wspd2pio).

“Another fictional SB 405 near I-90!” he he wrotesitting next to a convincing mannequin.

“The human driver explained that he had been using this for a long time due to carpooling being so complicated. State Patrol and District 2 Motorcycle Team approached this dummy.”

The photo, posted on June 19, has 121 comments, 74 reposts and almost 550 likes.

Most users thought the use of a dummy was clever, while others thought drivers like this obstructed carpool lanes.

Many were shocked that the soldiers were able to put it out.

“I’m surprised they were able to locate the dummy,” one user wrote.

Proper Conduct During a Traffic Stop

According to the ACLU, there are some tips to ensure a smooth traffic stop, regardless of the violation.

1. Stop the vehicle in a safe location away from traffic as quickly as possible.
2. Turn off the engine, roll down the windows and place your hands on the steering wheel. If it’s dark outside, turn on your interior lights to give the officer a good view. If you are in the passenger seat, keep your hands visible.
3. Take your purse or wallet, registration and proof of insurance only when instructed to do so by law enforcement officers. Do not reach the glove compartment until asked to do so by the officer.
4. Don’t make sudden movements. Narrate everything you are doing, i.e. “I’m getting my bag from the backseat.”
5. Keep your tone calm and respectful.

Source: ACLU

Another joked about how the mannequin was dressed.

“I didn’t know Jay Inslee was on the 405 riding shotgun with this guy today,” the comment read, gaining 26 likes.

Someone couldn’t resist pointing out that the driver’s confidence in using unconvincing accessories was what got them caught.

“Did the bad haircut give the mannequin away, or was it the Dollar Store glasses?” they commented.