Potential traffic law changes could still be introduced after the Government extended the deadline to provide feedback on proposals that could see motorists saved from hefty fines.
In March, the Government launched an open call for evidence to ask drivers for their opinions of "restricting the generation of surplus funds from traffic contraventions".
The original deadline to give evidence was May 11, but has since been extended to give motorists and industry experts until Saturday, May 25, at 11.59pm to respond.
There have long been calls for the Government to crack down on councils that are overzealous in their mission to fine drivers for moving traffic offences.
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Several councils have been granted powers to enforce moving traffic offences
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This could include common infractions like stopping in a yellow box junction, driving in a bus lane or making an illegal U-turn.
Motorists would generally be hit with a fine of up to £70, although this could be higher for drivers in London at £130.
The call for evidence looks at whether changes should be made to address concerns around councils targeting certain moving traffic restrictions including:
- No entry roads
- No left or right turn
- Prohibited vehicles
- Unlawful entry into box junctions
- Driving in mandatory cycle lanes
Transport Secretary Mark Harper has frequently touted the Government's work to protect drivers, particularly from poor driving conditions and unfair penalties.
Point 15 of the Plan for Drivers states: "Strengthen Government and sector-led guidance on enforcement of moving traffic offences such as entering yellow box junctions, to ensure consistency and stop drivers from being penalised unfairly."
Another aim of the Government is to "take the profit out of traffic enforcement" by looking to restrict cash-strapped councils from increasing the number of motoring fines.
Several councils have struggled with financial issues, with experts warning that they could look at targeting drivers to make up for steep losses.
This could include issuing a greater number of fines for common moving traffic offences, as has been seen in some local authorities over the last year.
Recent research found that a handful of councils had applied to the Government for greater powers to enforce these offences and hand out more fines.
According to Confused.com, Kent and Bedford councils were granted extra powers in the spring and summer of 2023 to monitor a number of sites.
Commenting on the changes, Louise Thomas, said: “As councils in England are granted powers to issue fines for moving traffic offences, the hope is that road safety will improve, and police force workloads will be supported.
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Drivers could face fines as expensive as £130
PA
“But in order to improve road safety, councils will be monitoring moving traffic offences with a close lens.
"Although it’s expected that councils will give warnings prior to issuing monetary fines, this doesn’t mean that drivers should take the risk and commit offences."