The "recommended" fine for carpool lane violation has gone up to $380 but not the $1068 rumored and it is ultimately set by the county
not the state. So OldTownRAT is right that most of this is pure nonsense. There IS a cell phone law requiring hands-free usage while driving that is supposed to take effect on July 1st,
2008 but from what I understand it is being challenged and is under judicial review and may not actually come to fruition.
Here's another:
Urban myths
Just drive/ride common sensibly and you'll be fine.