New automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras have gone live in Gloucestershire, targeting drivers who commit yellow box offences, banned turns, and bus lane violations. The move is part of a broader rollout across the Midlands, with plans to monitor yellow boxes near Junction 1 of the M5 in West Bromwich.
Widespread Misunderstanding of Yellow Box Rules
Research indicates that yellow box rules are widely misunderstood by motorists, leading to common errors on the road. Drivers may unknowingly stop inside the hatched boxes, which are designed to keep traffic flowing at busy junctions, roundabouts, and traffic lights. The only exception to the rule is when waiting to turn right; otherwise, vehicles must not stop inside them.
Zack Rahman, general manager of Vertu BYD Hartlepool, warned: "Car admin is easier than it has ever been. Whether it’s paying your car tax online or adding a simple calendar reminder a month before your MOT is due, it only takes a couple of minutes and can save you a lot of stress. With more cameras going live, it is worth getting ahead of any documentation issues now, because if a case ends up in court, the average wait is around three months longer than it was a decade ago."
Cameras Also Check Insurance, Tax, and MOT
In addition to monitoring traffic offences, the ANPR cameras will check legal documentation requirements such as insurance, road tax, and MOTs. Drivers caught without valid documents could face fines or court proceedings.
Motorists are advised to proceed through yellow boxes only if they are sure they can clear the junction. Following the car in front without checking can lead to being stranded inside the box, resulting in a penalty.
