Drivers issued urgent road warning as councils gain new powers to slap motorists with fines

For the first time, English councils outside of London were able to apply for powers to enforce moving traffic offences.

This can include cracking down on drivers for breaking rules attributed to bus lanes, yellow box junctions, prohibited turns, and traffic prohibitions.

Data obtained by the RAC shows that around one million bus lane penalty charge notices are issued every year in England's largest cities.

This is estimated to be worth around £68million a year, with councils raising around £200million between 2015 and 2017.

Experts have called on drivers to refamiliarise themselves with moving traffic offences to keep traffic moving smoothly and avoid fines.

James Luckhurst, head of road safety at GEM Motoring Assist, 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."

He also highlighted how camera enforcement of these rules is becoming more common, meaning drivers have a very slim chance of avoiding punishment if they break the rules.

Some drivers could also find themselves falling foul of road rules by following their sat navs too closely.

Satellite navigation systems may fail to inform drivers of changes to the layout of the road, leaving them in a position where they may break rules around yellow box junctions or bus lanes.

Mr Luckhurst said no drivers should be caught out by road rules if they take action and 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, he added.

GEM has also highlighted the importance of "respecting zig-zag lines at crossings and school entrances" to keep young people safe.

Drivers are always required to slow down near schools, while many will also prohibit parking in certain areas with zig-zagged lines.

The motoring organisation said simple checks could make roads safer for all users, while simultaneously reducing stress and improving the flow of traffic.