for HOV passengers...
So here I am riding the metro, listening to my Ipod, reading, pondering life and enjoying the fact that I caught the 2nd of 2 organge line trains (this means I get a seat, eventhough I caught the train midway downtown - I get a row to myself and can sit, relax, and look out the window) -- It's a great day all around. Metro stations are flying by, "Doors closing" chimes going off, the all familiar, "Orange Line to Vienna - Please make sure you have all personal items..." coming from the metro train operator at the front of the train.
We leave Ballston (the last underground station on the orange line), I think to myself how I will be outside again soon and see the bright sunshine and clear skies. As I am sitting looking out the window staring at the traffic on 66 whiz by, the train slows and the all familiar "there's a train at the station in front of us" announcement comes on... I am looking at the HOV violaters, all lined up along the road and
I notice the oddest of 2 things - (1) there's a person talking to the cop standing outside of her car. Normally people just wait in their car, but this lady is having a discussion of some sorts. I have no idea what the discussion is about, however, my mind ponders several things pop in my mind - late to pick up the kids, trying to make it home before the kids, I forgot it was HOV, etc. etc. These thoughts are racing through my head as I notice the second, though not so odd, but more ironic thing - the lady is obviously pregnant. Then out of the blue, a thought pops into my head - "Do fetuses count as a carpooler on HOV lanes?"
I laugh to myself as I can see some judicious police officer giving her 3 HOV violation - fines are racking up, she's about to lose her license and then a brillant legal defense - the fetus is actually a person - so therefore Mom's unite - HOV for any pregnant lady... The legislature in Virginia tacks up the case - the Congress passes a special provision that requires fetuses be recognized as people for carpool purposes or you don't get federal highway dollars... Its endless mental entertainment. Of course remember on I-95 - you'd need to be carrying twins or more...
:-)