Diamond lane
A diamond lane is a special lane on a street or highway that is reserved for specific types of traffic. These lanes are usually marked with white diamonds or lozenge, hence their name. Diamond lanes are generally the right-most or left-most lane on the road. They are usually implemented to provide ways through traffic congestion, for safety reasons, and to encourage environmentally friendly transportation. A diamond lane may be intended for a specific type of traffic, or for several types. The intended use of a diamond lane is marked by traffic signs. In most areas, violating the rules of a diamond lane is punishable by a fine.
Some common examples are:
- High-occupancy vehicle lane (HOV), also known as a carpool lane. These are typically freeway lanes intended for multiple occupant or "green vehicles" (such as hybrid or electric cars).
- Bike lane, sometimes referred to as segregated cycle facilities. Separating bicycle traffic from pedestrian or motor vehicle traffic is typically safer and improves traffic flow.
- Bus lane, an uncongested lane for buses to travel, load, or unload in.
- Emergency vehicle lane, to help emergency vehicles get to their destination as fast as possible while avoiding traffic congestion.
- Taxicab lanes, most often found at airports or other transit hubs for passenger loading and unloading.
- Horse and buggy lanes in areas with significant Amish populations
Standards
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices states that diamonds indicates a lane reserved for high-occupancy vehicles. "United States Pavement Markings".