Millions of UK drivers risk a £70 fine for failing to recognise a little-known road sign, with one bus gate in Preston reportedly generating more than £3.7 million in fines since June 2024.
A bus gate is a short section of restricted road or a junction point that only buses and specific authorised vehicles may pass through, according to GOV.UK. The traffic restriction is becoming increasingly popular, and many motorists only realise they have broken the law when a penalty notice arrives weeks later.
84% of drivers unaware of bus gates
Keith Hawes, Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, said: "The fact that 84 per cent of people don't know what a bus gate is shows why so many motorists continue to be caught out by them. Most drivers know what a bus lane looks like and understand the restrictions, but bus gates are far less familiar despite becoming increasingly common."
The vehicle leasing firm is putting the whole country on notice to help motorists avoid the mistake.
How to spot a bus gate
Drivers will notice markings on the road, usually next to double yellow lines, with the words 'BUS GATE' in capitals. Blue circular signs may also show which vehicles are allowed to continue, such as buses and cycles, sometimes with time plates underneath indicating when restrictions are enforced.
Hawes added: "Drivers should also be aware that some bus gates only operate during certain times of the day, while others are enforced 24 hours a day. It's important to check the signs carefully rather than assuming the rules are the same everywhere."
Penalties and advice
Enforcement cameras monitor the roads and flag prohibited vehicles that breach the bus gate. Offenders may receive a Penalty Charge Notice through the post, typically amounting to £70, though some councils reduce this to £35 if paid within a certain timeframe.
"If you're relying on a sat-nav, remember it isn't always up to date with local traffic restrictions," Hawes advised. "Road signs should always take priority, and taking a different route is far more preferable than receiving a fine a few weeks later."
