More people in Glasgow falling foul of bus lane rules than rest of UK

Nearly 300 people a day are issued bus lane fines in Glasgow, new figures have revealed.

In fact, in 2017 Glasgow City Council handed out more than anywhere else in Britain.

The 109,000 tickets were worth around £6.5 million to the local authority, reduced to around £4 million for those who paid it early at a reduced rate.

Amanda Stretton from Confused.com who carried out the research, says: “The £41 million in fines issued by councils are testimony to the fact that bus lanes are one of the most confusing challenges motorists face on our already chaotic roads.

“Drivers needs to be listened to for a change – it’s only right that some of this fine money is invested to make bus lanes and signage clearer. In the meantime, we’ve launched a go-to bus lane guide to help drivers navigate through the chaos and advise how they can challenge a fine if they think it has been unfairly issued.

“While there is a place for driving fines, many feel bus lane charges are unfair and excessive, adding to the ream of costs burdening drivers. Drivers who want a clear route to saving money should shop around online to compare motoring costs, including car insurance and fuel at Confused.com.

A spokesman for Glasgow City Council said: “The figures issued by Confused.Com fail to reflect the whole story.

“In 2017/18 bus lanes fines paid to Glasgow City Council amounted to £3.23m.

“Confused.Com has not taken account of the fact that 70% of people pay their fine within a fortnight and therefore receive a discounted rate of £30 per fine.

“Our bus lane and bus gate signage is compliant with the relevant legislation.

“Bus lanes help to reduce emissions while also improving the journey times and reliability of bus services.

“Bus passenger numbers are falling steadily and we have to do what we can to support an essential form of public transport."