### Local Man’s Flair for Fashion Lands Him in HOV Lane Controversy
**Cityville, USA** — In a bold fashion statement that could only be described as “unconventional,” local driver Jim Flannigan was apprehended yesterday while utilizing the High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane with his “passenger” — an inanimate plaid shirt. Authorities say Flannigan’s daring stunt has opened up a new frontier in the age-old battle for lane occupancy.
Flannigan, 32, thought he was having a fresh morning when he decided to hop into his trusty sedan wearing a rather spiffy plaid shirt. “I saw it sitting there, and it just looked so lonely,” Flannigan reportedly told officers while attempting to assure them that his shirt was indeed alive in spirit. “I figured if it could hang out in my closet, why not let it feel the wind in its fibers?”
With flippant disregard for the vehicle occupancy laws, Flannigan was set on a mission to prove that his shirt was well and truly his “wingman.” The plaid pattern, a classic choice for hipsters everywhere, might have looked like just a fashion statement to some, but to Flannigan, it represented friendship and companionship on the road.
Officers were apparently not moved by the uplifting story of “shirt solidarity.” They intercepted Flannigan in the HOV lane, where they were “impressed” by his creativity but alas, unfazed by his wit. “When we pulled him over, I genuinely thought it was some kind of prank,” said Officer Tanya Grimsby. “But no, it was just this guy thinking he could take democracy in lane choice to fashion week.”
Flannigan’s plaid buddy didn’t even have the decency to adorn a smiling face or anything resembling a human form, which disappointed the officers. “I mean, if he had a full-on outfit with eyes, maybe we would’ve reconsidered,” Grimsby quipped.
Upon being cited for the incident, Flannigan maintained his innocence, stating, “Well, if I had known I couldn’t have a shirt ride with me, I would have at least brought a mannequin or someone in full ghost costume. It’s not like I was trying to take a self-driving car to the next level!”
As news of Flannigan’s ‘supportive shirt’ spread through the small community, many took to social media to voice their appreciation for his unconventional approach to public transit. Some called it “bold,” others labeled it “ridiculous,” and a good chunk of social media users simply labeled it “Tuesday” without a second thought.
Now, following the incident, Flannigan is determined to lobby for more inclusive HOV regulations, proposing a “Clothes and Companions” lane. “Imagine a world where your favorite shirt could ride shotgun! It’s 2023! Fashion should have its place in modern transportation!” he declared, bringing visions of a surreal future where fabric logic finally rules the road.
Whether or not Flannigan’s vision becomes reality remains to be seen. However, one thing is for certain: it appears there’s no limit to the kind of companionship that exists — even if it’s literally just hanging by a thread.
