15.8 Signage and Markings for High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes

  • HOV lanes reduce travel times and increase level of service for buses and other HOVs. Good signage and markings are critical for communicating rules for using these lanes. Table 15.3 lists design guidelines.
Table 15.3 Design Guidelines for HOV Lanes
Design Element Impacts on Crash Frequency and Severity
Signage
  • Use overhead signs instead of shoulder-mounted signs.
  • Use text that reads HOV on signs in lieu of the HOV diamond symbol.
  • Avoid use of the HOV/TOLL Lane banner.
  • Install distance destination signs and interchange sequence signs upstream of all access points to and from managed lanes.
  • Sequence lane sign information in the following order:
    • Top Line: Indicate the HOV lane (e.g., left lane)
    • Middle Line: Indicate what vehicle can use the HOV lane
    • Bottom Line: Indicate time periods during which HOV restrictions are in effect
  • On overhead signs, use a downward arrow to separate the time and date.
  • Widely understood lane control signals may be used (e.g., a red X to indicate closed lanes).
Markings
  • Avoid using the word only and the arrow symbol.
  • Avoid using text that reads No Exit on the road.
  • Apply yellow pavement markings to distinguish HOV and mixed-use lanes.
  • Use white pavement markings and solid lines to indicate where crossing is prohibited.
  • Use solid HOV diamond symbols instead of outlines.

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Chris VanDyke

Research Scientist | Program Manager

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