Drivers to be spared bus lane fines for first-time offences

Drivers who accidentally stray into bus lanes or box junctions are to be given a warning rather than a penalty charge for first offences under planned changes to traffic laws.

Councils around the country are free to charge drivers up to £130 for flouting rules and using lanes dedicated to public transport. But since the powers were introduced drivers have complained of being hit with charges for honest mistakes, often caused by poor signage.