Overview
- The vehicle was spotted in the HOV lane on the 10 Freeway near West Covina with what appeared to be a front-seat passenger.
- A CHP officer determined the supposed passenger was a jacket wrapped around the seat and secured with a seat belt.
- The driver received a citation for illegal HOV use, an offense that carries a minimum $490 fine in California.
- CHP shared the case on social media, warning that clothing or mannequins do not count toward occupancy requirements.
- HOV lanes are reserved for vehicles meeting the minimum occupant threshold, typically two or more people.