The function of yellow box junction rules is to help ensure that junctions on busy roads are kept clear. The basic rule is that you shouldn’t stop in one. Like with green traffic lights, you shouldn’t go forward into a box junction unless you’re sure you can get to the other side without stopping on the yellow markings. You will normally see them at traffic light controlled crossroads. You may also find them in other places, but wherever they are the rules are still the same.
There is an exception to this however; when waiting for oncoming traffic before completing a right turn, you CAN wait within the box providing that stationary traffic is not blocking your exit.
How many cars can go into the yellow box?
There is no limit to the number of drivers who can wait in the box. But you do need to take into account how much space is available beyond the yellow markings. If queuing traffic means for instance that there’s only enough space for a couple of cars at the exit, then you should hold back if there are two or more drivers ahead of you.
The trick is to keep your distance from drivers ahead when you’re approaching any kind of junction. Open up some space so that you have a better view of the room available. That way, the question of ‘when can I wait in a yellow box junction’ will be easier to answer. And if the driver ahead misjudges it, you will have more time to react and to stop outside the box.
Yellow box junction rules mean that you may earn yourself a fine if you block one, and some of them even have cameras triggered by sensors. Fall foul of one of these and may find yourself getting a demand for payment dropping through your letterbox!