Yellow box junctions are in place at busy junctions to aid the flow of traffic through the junction. They can also help to keep a road space free. For example, to make sure emergency service vehicles have a clear exit from fire stations and hospitals.
Recognising a box junction
Yellow box junctions are indicated by yellow crisscross lines painted on the carriageway:
You can find these at road junctions and at some roundabouts.
Yellow box junctions do not need to be accompanied by signs or a Traffic Regulation Order.
Using a box junction
The rules of box junctions can be found in the Highway Code (174):
You may enter a yellow box junction when your exit is clear and there is enough space on the other side of the junction for your vehicle to clear the box completely without stopping. You can stop in a yellow box junction when turning right if you are prevented from turning by oncoming traffic, or by other vehicles waiting to turn right.
Top tips to avoid a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN)
We issue PCNs for a failure to comply with the rules of box junctions.
- Check your exit is clear. If you simply follow the vehicle in front of you without doing this, it may stop. This will prevent you from fully crossing the junction.
- If a traffic light is green, this does not mean the rules of box junctions do not apply.
- Do not let other drivers pressure you into entering the box when a clear exit is not available.
