HOV lanes are High Occupancy Vehicle lanes that are designated for cars that contain at least two people. If you're caught driving in an HOV lane without a passenger during specified rush hours, you will generally be charged with a 2-point violation and a fine of over $100. Even if you're driving in an HOV lane with passengers in the car during rush hour, it is possible to get a traffic ticket if you've entered or exited the HOV lane in a non-designated area.
HOV lane laws were initiated in order to encourage carpooling and cut down on traffic. If you've received an HOV lane violation in the New York metropolitan area, contact an experienced traffic attorney who can help get the penalty lowered or even dismissed.
If you live in Westchester or New York City, please write me at EliMooreLaw@gmail.com to arrange a free consultation. To stay up to date about traffic laws, please sign up for my free newsletter at EliMooreTrafficAttorney.com.