UK drivers have been hit with fines totalling more than £1 million from just 36 yellow box junctions during the first months of 2024, according to new RAC data.
The staggering sum highlights the growing use of camera enforcement by local councils, with individual fines ranging from £70 to £130 depending on the authority. The figure suggests thousands of motorists have been caught out in recent months alone.
Yellow box junctions are designed to keep traffic flowing at busy crossings and roundabouts. Under Highway Code rules, drivers must not enter unless their exit is clear – or when turning right and blocked by oncoming traffic.
More councils are now gaining powers to enforce moving traffic offences, which previously fell under police jurisdiction. This allows them to issue penalty charge notices directly for infractions including bus lane violations, illegal turns, and yellow box junction breaches.
The surge in fines has sparked concern about whether junctions are becoming "cash cows" for cash-strapped councils. Motoring groups regularly call for clearer markings and more consistent enforcement, arguing drivers can be unfairly caught out by sudden traffic changes or pedestrian movements.
The £1 million total from such a small number of junctions underscores the significant financial burden facing British motorists as enforcement cameras become increasingly common across the country.
Source: RAC