I retired, moved, and haven't seen an HOV lain for over 15 years. I hope I never see one again. I'd rather walk a dirt road than drive in that environment again.
I remember my first encounter with an HOV lane. I was visiting Dallas, and saw this empty lane on the interstate, with a diamond overhead. I think it said “HOV”, too. I had no clue this lane was reserved for some privileged class. I drove in it. I eventually got pulled over. The cop told me I was driving in the HOV lane.
I told him I’d never heard of any such thing. I was from the Appalachians.
He gave me a break.