A driver was stopped by the police and fined after being spotted driving with a "Seusspicious-looking" passenger which turned out to be a life-size inflatable Grinch.
The festive motorist was caught driving in the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane, which is meant to be used solely by drivers with multiple people in the car.
This driver was alone apart from the inflatable Grinch.
Police saw the funny side but still handed out a citation for driving violations.
The incident happened in one of the suburbs of Phoenix, Arizona, US.
A spokesperson released a pun-laden statement about the traffic stop, which read: "Last week, an Arizona Trooper spotted a driver in the high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane with a Seusspicious-looking "passenger" on I-10 at Avondale Blvd at 8am.
"The trooper stopped the driver & determined the grumpy green guy was, in fact, an inflatable Grinch. (No other passengers.)
"While we appreciate the festive flair, this is illegal and the driver received a citation for the HOV violation.
"With extra traffic on AZ roads this time of year, be sure you understand the law (ARS 28-737) & restricted times before using HOV lanes. Don’t get caught with a Grinch!"
In Arizona HOV lanes are a traffic calming measure and are used to try and lessen the amount of cars on the road.
They are enforced on weekdays, from 6am to 9am and 3pm to 7pm.
While in force any car driving in a HOV lane must have at least two people in the car. Failure to comply can lead to a fine for the driver.
As Christmas approaches people are feeling more festive and more Grinchy by the minute.
One neighbour, annoyed about the lack of Christmas lights put up on a neighbour's home, took it upon themselves to write and deliver a scathing note.
Reportedly posted to Facebook before it was widely shared on Reddit and Twitter, the anonymous note found in a letterbox read: "Congratulations. You have won the Humbug award.
"Because you have chosen to be a Grinch, and not put up Christmas lights you have disappointed all the children, young, and old in your community.
"LED lights are inexpensive to run and can be purchased even in second hand stores for reasonable prices. They can last years.
"I'm sure cost is not an issue and it is more about being too busy with your devices than anything else. Do you remember when you were a child and you saw all the Christmas lights on your street? What happened?
"Next year do better and bring a smile to those in need... but remember you still have time. It only takes a little effort to make a big difference. Love strong and love long! Putting lights up for other faiths counts too. Why not show your pride with colour. Happy Holidays."
People were quick to slam the author of the note for their entitled approach.
