THE Bus-HOV lanes are reserved for the circulation of buses and cars carrying two or more peoplewith the main aim of decongesting traffic at the entrances and exits of cities. In addition, it is expected that with them, drivers will be more willing to share their vehicle, while facilitating the circulation of public transport, being in both cases options that help reduce environmental impact by reducing the number of vehicles on the roads.
In this sense, during the first quarter 2026 will come into service new Bus-HOV lane on the A-2 motorwaywhich will facilitate entry and exit from Madrid for those who wish to travel by public transport or share a private vehicle. Even if the pathway has been technologically enabled between Madrid and Alcalá de Henaresfor a total of 19.2 kilometers, in the first phase of operation it will only reach Torrejón de Ardoz. Before its launch, many are wondering who will be able to use this new path.
Bus-HOV lanes are a solution from the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) in order to relieve congestion on the roadsthat is, sections of road that are only activated during peak hours, while at other times they continue to operate as a normal route.
This pathway works with ground level light beaconsthe lights being green in boarding and disembarkation areas, and orange in areas where you cannot enter or exit. If the markers are turned off, the lane will be free for all vehicles to use. Additionally, road markings and illuminated signs indicate when the Bus-HOV lane is operational to avoid confusion.
The DGT warns that this is a monitored lane, because it is equipped with license plate reading and occupancy detection equipment. So, even if there is no physical separation, non-compliance with the regulations will result in a sanction.
Who can travel on the Bus-HOV lanes?
As they say, Bus-HOV lanes were created to streamline traffic, so Not all vehicles will be able to access it. To begin with, vehicles with two or more occupantsincluding the driver. These cars with ECO, C and B label when expressly indicated on variable lane access signs. In these cases, they must be identified with the environmental sticker placed in a visible place.
They can also be used by vehicles intended for public services such as firefighters, police, civil protection or healthcare in emergency services, among others. Likewise, the two or three wheeled motorcyclespassenger cars, mixed vehicles (vans), buses and articulated buses, provided they meet the above requirements.
Added to the above is the possibility that a vehicle occupied only by the driver You can travel on the Bus-HOV lane when you have the zero label; if you drive a motorcycle; or in a car or van bearing the V-15 sign, assigned to vehicles with a disabled driver and provided that the owner has a physical limitation. For their part, taxis and car-sharing vehicles will be able to circulate there provided they are equipped with the corresponding identification device.
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