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Motorists are being warned to revisit their understanding of road signs and markings as more councils roll out camera enforcement to police traffic offences in busy urban areas.
Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist says drivers risk unnecessary fines if they fail to recognise key restrictions, particularly as local authorities outside London have been able to enforce moving traffic offences since May 2022. These include contraventions at yellow box junctions, banned turns and one-way streets.
Recent figures from the RAC indicate that around one million bus-lane penalty charge notices are issued every year in England’s largest cities, generating an estimated £68 million. GEM says a clearer understanding of the rules around restricted lanes and junctions could help drivers avoid costly penalties.
James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM, said: “Yellow box junctions are there to keep busy crossroads clear, so drivers should only enter when their exit is fully open, even if the traffic lights are green. The only exception is when turning right and waiting for a safe gap in oncoming traffic.
Bus lanes and lesser known ‘bus gates’ also catch large numbers of drivers out, especially where restrictions only apply at certain times of day. Camera enforcement is increasingly common, but no driver should be caught out if they take a moment to understand what the signs and markings mean. A quick Highway Code refresher on bus gates, box junctions, zigzags and speed limits can make every journey smoother, safer and free from unwanted penalties.”
GEM also stressed the importance of observing zigzag lines near pedestrian crossings and school entrances, as stopping in these areas can lead to enforcement action. Drivers are also being reminded to pay attention to changing speed limits, particularly where repeater signs may not be present, but national or reduced limits still apply.
With camera enforcement becoming more widespread, GEM says taking time to understand road markings and signage is essential to staying compliant and avoiding fines.
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