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.
He gave you a break because you were a member of a minority!! 'Appalachian Hill People'! Don't laugh! it's true! They are a seldom referenced but recognized minority.
I'm a member of the 'Red Neck Swamp People' but they won't give us minority status.