A study by the RAC has uncovered problems with 90 percent of proposed new yellow box junctions.
Previously, this type of monitored junction was only located in London and Cardiff, but a ruling in 2022 has granted councils across the UK new powers to enforce moving traffic offences.
Yellow box junctions are designed to prevent a road becoming blocked and keep traffic flowing. However, they can also catch drivers unawares, resulting in a fine of up to £130.
Many are monitored by enforcement cameras, which can automatically process penalty charge notices (PCNs) – hence their ‘money box junctions’ nickname.
Our guide will help you obey the rules and avoid a penalty.
Yellow box junctions are usually found in urban areas, where tailbacks can block opposing traffic flow. Previous research by the RAC found eight in 10 drivers said they struggle to drive cleanly through yellow box junctions. And the motoring organisation’s latest report found more than half (55 percent) of the new yellow box junctions applied for by councils since 2022 directly contravene the current government guidance.
An investigation by Click4Reg found London councils earned up to £520,000 from moving traffic violations every day.
The City of London borough typically issues up to 200,000 penalties in a year, making around £25 million as a result.
Read on for the facts about yellow box junctions.
Yellow box junctions: what you need to know
What is the point of a yellow box junction?
A box junction keeps traffic flowing by marking out an area of road space that should be kept clear at all times.
When can I drive into a yellow box junction?
You are only meant to enter a box junction if your exit is clear – in other words, if you can drive all the way through it without stopping.
Am I ever allowed to stop in a yellow box junction?
If you are turning right, you can stop in a box junction if oncoming traffic prevents you from doing so – but only if your exit is clear.
What is the penalty for stopping in a yellow box junction?
The fine for stopping in a yellow box ranges from £70 to £130 (the latter in London). However, it is halved if paid within 14 days.
Will I get points on my licence for breaking yellow box rules?
No, you will not receive penalty points on your driving licence for a yellow box offence.
Why do people get annoyed about yellow box junctions?
Motorists get frustrated with box junction transgressors because everyone else gets blocked, along with the offending driver. It is considered one of the more ‘selfish’ motoring offences.
I still remember something about them from my driving test…
Well remembered! Yellow box junctions are covered by rule 174 of the Highway Code.
Video: how to use a yellow box junction
RAC spokesperson Simon Williams said: “Our research shows yellow box junctions are very divisive issue for drivers.
“There is a strong feeling that many junctions are not set up fairly, which leads to drivers having no choice but stop in them, whether that’s due to poor traffic light sequencing, poor design or being used in the wrong place.
The RAC adds that authorities should carefully analyse every yellow box junction before installing a camera, to confirm it’s possible to drive through without stopping.
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