Signs on carpool lanes state the lanes are restricted from 6-9 a.m. and 3-7 p.m. Monday through Friday. What about holidays?

What about ‘em? Oh! You mean you want to know if you can use them on the holidays? Sorry, apparently my mind is still on vacation.

After two round-trips to Lake Berryessa on Labor Day — one to go fetch gasoline for the jet ski, which conked out in the middle of the lake — it sure didn’t feel like a day off!

Now back to the question.

Marcus Wagner, Caltrans’ public information officer for Napa County, said that national holidays are exceptions to the carpool lane rules. In other words, they may be used as regular lanes. Please note: the key word is “national,” as in New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.

“Some carpool lane signs say ‘except holidays.’ Some don’t,” said Wagner. The reason why is a mystery to the both of us.

Wagner highlighted one difference, however, on using the carpool lane on a holiday. Whereas using the carpool lane may give you the privilege of avoiding a toll on the bridge during regular weekdays and hours, using the lane on a holiday will not give you this privilege. Make sure you have cash ready.

Though most drivers know this, the use of a carpool or HOV (high occupancy vehicle) lane, means vehicles must carry the minimum number of passengers specified by the signs. In some cases, this can mean two people. In others, three. Pay attention, as you cannot claim ignorance to tiptoe around the law.

The Caltrans Web site, www.dot.ca.gov, says motorcycles can use the lanes, as can two-seaters can if both seats are occupied.

What does that “occupied” mean? The site states that besides regular adults, “Each child counts as an occupant, but pets, infants still in the womb, inflatable dolls or ghosts do not (we’ve heard them all).”

Violation of the carpool lane? A minimum fine of $271.

The creativity in passing off an inflatable doll as a legitimate passenger? Priceless.

What is Glad You Asked?

Glad You Asked attempts to answer readers’ questions. If the inflatable doll sitting next to you has a burning question, send it (the question, not the doll) to me at dmontanez@napanews.com or call me at 256-2224.