Texas Rep. Files Bill To Allow Pregnant Drivers To Use HOV Lanes

Do you remember the pregnant woman from Plano, Texas that tried to use her unborn child as a justification for driving in the HOV lane? Well, she got the ticket. Then, she got a second ticket for the same reason.

This Is What Happened

According to NPR, Brandy Botone told the officers when pulled over (appearing to be alone) and asked why she was driving in the high occupancy lane, "My baby girl is right here," she said. She didn't feel like she had broken the law of having to have at least two passengers in the vehicle in order to ride in that lane. I meeeean, she wrong?

So the story goes, Brandy made her case and fought the ticket. She made the case that her unborn daughter was a fetus, therefore considered a person under Texas Law. A judge agreed with her and the ticket was dismissed.

And Then

Fast forward, the incident and case sparked a lot of controversy and got national attention and guess what: a bill was filed in Texas that could give an extra advantage for anyone who is not just eating for two, but driving for two. Check out the bill here.

It's very short. It basically says that a person who is driving while pregnant is "entitled to use any high occupancy vehicle lane in this state [Texas] regardless of whether the vehicle is occupied by a passenger other than the operator ’s unborn child."

I'm Not The Only One With Questions

Interesting. I mean, I understand, right? I had a conversation about this. The argument was, but are you putting yourself and your child's life in danger by wanting to drive in a faster lane though? Hmmmmm. I did an article on moving out of the way if you're in those left lanes, which are supposed to be used for passing only. It drives me nuts. So many accidents happening because drivers seemingly just want to hang out over there.

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What Are Your Thoughts?

What say you? Do you think she has a valid point and feel that this bill should be passed? Have any of you out there who are currently expecting even considered this as a concern? Download our free app here. Tap the chat button and chime in. Let me know what your thoughts are on this, or leave a comment on the Facebook Page post.

K-Lew out!