New York DMV Permit Written TestRoad SignsMedium
You are driving on a multi-lane highway and observe a diamond-shaped white pavement marking in the left-most lane. What does this marking indicate?
- AThis lane is temporarily closed due to construction ahead.
- BThis lane is for vehicles with a specific number of occupants or a special purpose, such as buses or HOV.
- CThis lane is a dedicated exit lane and must be used to leave the highway.
- DThis lane is reserved for vehicles with three or more occupants.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. This lane is for vehicles with a specific number of occupants or a special purpose, such as buses or HOV.
A diamond-shaped pavement marking indicates a preferential lane, also known as a High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane, HOV-3, bus lane, or carpool lane. These lanes are reserved for vehicles meeting specific criteria, typically related to the number of occupants or vehicle type.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Construction zones use orange signs and different markings.
- C. Exit lanes have different markings and signage.
- D. While often used for HOV-3, the diamond itself broadly means 'preferential lane', not strictly HOV-3.
Diamond Lane Marking
A white diamond symbol painted on the pavement of a lane, indicating that the lane is reserved for special use, such as high-occupancy vehicles (HOV), buses, or carpools.
- White pavement marking.
- Diamond shape.
- Designates a preferential use lane.
- Rules for use (e.g., number of occupants, vehicle type) are usually posted on signs.
Memory trick: Diamond shines, special lane combines.