Thousands of drivers caught out by ‘CONFUSING’ bus lane signage, study reveals
Thousands of drivers are being hit with fines for driving in bus lanes due to unclear signage, new research by the RAC suggests. More than a third (36%) admit to mistakenly entering a bus lane, with four in ten of those caught on camera and forced to pay a penalty.
The findings highlight growing concerns over the clarity of bus lane signs, particularly those that operate at specific times of the day. Over half (56%) of drivers living in areas with part-time bus lanes believe signage is inadequate. A third (33%) say signs are difficult to spot while driving, while almost a quarter (23%) find them too complex to understand.
The problem appears to stem from information overload. The study found that 85% of drivers struggle to read and process bus lane operating hours while focusing on driving safely. Almost a third (29%) say there aren't enough warning signs ahead of bus lanes, and a quarter (26%) think the signs are simply too small.
Concerns over fines are prompting some drivers to avoid bus lanes altogether, even when they are legally allowed to use them. More than a quarter (28%) say they never drive in bus lanes to eliminate any risk of being caught out, while 32% take a cautious approach by avoiding them if they are unsure.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams said the findings confirm what many drivers have long suspected. He reiterated calls for councils to issue warning letters for first-time offenders rather than automatic fines. While deliberate misuse should be penalised, he argues that many drivers are being unfairly punished due to signage that meets legal guidelines but remains difficult to interpret.
The RAC is urging authorities to review signage regulations, warning that poor visibility and complex rules are deterring drivers from using road space efficiently. With many avoiding bus lanes altogether, even when permitted, there are concerns this could be contributing to unnecessary congestion.
