During the holiday season, inflatable decorations illuminate streets across the United States. Yet their use in traffic is not always appropriate. When an Arizona traffic officer noticed an unusual passenger in a vehicle, it became clear that the driver relied on a blow‑up companion to gain access to an HOV lane for a free ride.
The driver and the inflatable Grinch managed to dodge video cameras and most drivers, but they encountered a police officer before a mishap occurred.
It should be noted that this practice is illegal in the United States. Access to an HOV lane is permitted only when the cab carries two or more people. Exceptions are made for motorcycles, public transportation, tow trucks, and similar vehicles.
People try to circumvent the rule in various ways. In this incident, the driver admitted to using a stand‑in for a year and a half before being stopped.
Consequently, both the inflatable Grinch and the driver were fined. The episode highlights the widespread tension between holiday festivities and road safety rules.
Reference
The Grinch is described as a green‑haired, solitary being who dwells on a mountain, watching the merriment of a fictional town below. He detests the Christmas season and the pre‑holiday bustle, and he often is portrayed as spoiling others’ happiness. In American usage, the term Grinch can label a toxic person who tries to steal joy.
A source: Car shoveling
A picture: AZ DPS
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