Doncaster drivers paid out a whopping £948,923 in bus lane fines

That’s according to new data obtained by Confused.com, which reveals 42,470 bus lane Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) were issued by just three bus lane cameras in the town in one year.

Doncaster’s three bus lane cameras are situated at Cleveland Street, Waterdale and North Bridge, generating £410,691.71, £ 302,292 and £243,615.96.

These figures put the town at number two of the bus lanes in the whole of Yorkshire which generated the highest revenue.

Further research reveals nearly one in three drivers have received a fine for driving in a bus lane in the past, with a third even receiving more than one.

However, nearly 36 per cent of frustrated drivers have appealed a bus lane penalty they were given, with 74 per cent successful in their challenge.

A spokesman said: “This just goes to show that not all fines may be issued fairly in the first place. Two in five said that they didn’t have to pay anything as a result of the appeal, and one in three paid a reduced price, saving £68, on average.

The new research highlighted several reasons why drivers have fought their fines. Confusion caused by unclear signage was the most common factor blamed, followed by unclear road markings. Almost a fifth of drivers even say they felt that the fine was issued to raise money rather than for legitimate reasons.

Alex Kindred, Car Insurance Expert at Confused.com said of the UK as a whole: “Nearly £60m issued in bus lane fines in 2019 is testament to the fact that bus lanes may be one of the most confusing challenges motorists face on UK roads.

“Clearly drivers want change to avoid receiving a fine for a genuine mistake. It’s only right that some of the money from PCNs is invested back into solutions, such as clearer signage and exemptions for first-time offenders.

“Whilst we wait for councils to consider solutions to our bus lane problem, our challenge checklist should help to make the appeals process clearer if you’ve received an unfair bus lane PCN through the post.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.