Motoring expert names traffic light rule millions of Brits don't know about

An expert has warned UK road users against a common driving habit when approaching traffic lights that could see them slapped with hefty fines and penalty points, or even a court appearance.

As highlighted by Brett Tinkley from Lexham Insurance, motorists who speed up at junctions to beat an amber light are breaching rule 109 of the Highway Code. It states motorists must "obey all traffic light signals, and traffic signs giving orders, including temporary signals and signs".

On top of the Highway Code, this everyday behaviour also contravenes section 36 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 and the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions Schedule 14, part 1. It comes after mindless yobs damage 41 cars in vandalism rampage through sleepy market town.

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While entering an intersection during an amber light is not automatically illegal, it becomes an offence if the light turns red before the vehicle has fully cleared the junction. Rule 178 of the Highway Code adds: "Motorists, including motorcyclists, MUST stop at the first white line reached if the lights are amber or red and should avoid blocking the way or encroaching on the marked area at other times, e.g. if the junction ahead is blocked."

If caught breaching these rules, drivers can receive a fixed penalty notice (FPN) — typically a £100 fine and three penalty points on their licence — and if they contest the offence or decline to pay the penalty, the possibility of court proceedings.

Brett explained: "An amber light means prepare to stop, so the primary purpose is to warn drivers that the light will soon turn red... not accelerate to see if you can beat it — no matter how much of a rush you're in.

"Traffic lights are strategically timed to ensure the safety of road-users. The impulsive act of accelerating when you shouldn't could jeopardises this. Say you're at a roundabout with multiple lights, there isn't anything to gain by speeding up to stop in traffic again moments later.

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"Additionally, some traffic lights across the UK are equipped with speed and red light cameras, particularly in busy areas. With a red light camera, motorists who run a red light are captured by sensors embedded within the road's surface, or through detection technology at the intersection."

While speeding to beat amber is strongly discouraged, there are circumstances when passing through is acceptable and even advisable for safety reasons. This is supported by rule 175 of the Highway Code, which advises that drivers should proceed if stopping suddenly might cause a collision.

Brett added: "If a light turns amber and your vehicle is so close to the stop line that braking suddenly could be more dangerous or not sensible due to your advanced position at the time the light changes continuing makes the most sense, just do so using your best judgement.

"Ultimately, the primary purpose of traffic lights is to regulate the flow of traffic and enhance safety at intersections. They achieve this by assigning the right-of-way to different directions of traffic, ensuring that vehicles and pedestrians can share the road in an organised and safe manner. Essentially, traffic lights act as a visual signalling system, directing drivers and pedestrians when to stop, proceed, or prepare to stop.”"

So while speeding up to make it through an amber light may seem like a harmless, everyday driving manoeuvre, it could land you with hefty fines and points on your licence, or even a court date if you contest the FPN.

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