Drivers could be fined £100 for making one common mistake at red lights
Drivers caught stopping in cycle boxes at traffic lights could receive a £100 fine and three points on their driving licence.
Advanced Stop Lines (ASL) – commonly known as cycle boxes – are designated safe areas for cyclists. They are normally marked by white lines and painted with a bicycle symbol.
Many drivers are unaware that getting caught creeping into or stopping in a cycle box at a red light could mean that they are hit with a hefty fine and penalty points on their driving licence.
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Rule 178 of The Highway Code reads: "Motorists, including motorcyclists, must stop at the first white line reached if the lights are amber or red and should avoid blocking the way or encroaching on the marked area at other times, e.g. if the junction ahead is blocked".
This means that motorists who are caught in a cycle box at a red light face being hit with a £100 fine and three points on their driving licence - whether they’re driving a car, a motorbike, or a scooter.
According to data from MoneySuperMarket , having three penalty points on your driving licence for a traffic light offence increases the cost of your car insurance by £270 per year.
However, there is an exception to the rule listed in the Highway Code. According to rule 178: "If your vehicle has proceeded over the first white line at the time that the signal goes red, you MUST stop at the second white line, even if your vehicle is in the marked area.”
If the lights change and it would be safer to stop inside the box rather than brake suddenly, drivers are permitted to enter an ASL. Drivers can also stop in a cycle box if they’re unable to clear the area before a green light turns red.
What Are ASLs?
Advanced Stop Lines - sometimes known as cycle boxes - are a space for cyclists to wait at the front of traffic queues. They are usually marked with white lines or a cycle symbol.
ASLs allow cyclists to set off safely when the lights turn green.
Blocking these areas puts cyclists at risk and can increase the likelihood of an accident as riders may be forced to manoeuvre around other vehicles.
MoneySuperMarket’s car insurance expert Alicia Hempsted said: “Busy junctions can be stressful, especially when you’re driving in areas that you’re less familiar with.
“If you’re approaching a set of traffic lights, reducing your speed early can give you extra time to survey the situation. This can help keep other road users safe and save money by avoiding a fine and higher insurance premiums if you get points on your licence.”
The expert offered further tips to help you navigate traffic lights:
ASLs are common at busy junctions
Slow down well in advance of traffic lights to avoid stopping abruptly or overshooting the line
Always stop at the first white line unless it’s unsafe to do so
Give cyclists plenty of space and time to set off