DC Fines Drivers Nearly $15M For Blocking Bus Lanes

How D.C.'s 'pop-up' bus lane became like any other lane of traffic

Source: The Washington Post / Getty

In nine months, D.C. has issued over 147,000 tickets for blocking bus lanes, generating nearly $15 million in fines. Drivers are upset, particularly because the rule went largely unenforced for years. However, transportation officials say the crackdown is necessary to reduce bus delays and improve safety.

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Cameras installed on Metrobuses now catch violators, who receive $100 fines and a video of their infraction. While many drivers find the enforcement confusing, officials argue it’s essential for efficiency and safety.

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The District plans to add 10 more miles of bus lanes next year, and the monthly number of tickets issued has already decreased from 20,000 to 13,000.