How to Appeal a Yellow Box Junction Fine UK 2026

Understanding yellow box junction rules

Highway Code rule 174 states: "You MUST NOT enter the box until your exit road or lane is clear." However, crucially, there is an exception: you MAY enter the box and wait when you want to turn right and are only stopped from doing so by oncoming traffic or by other vehicles waiting to turn right ahead of you. This exception is the single most successful ground for appealing a box junction PCN.

The turning right exception

If you were turning right and stopped in the box junction because oncoming traffic prevented you from completing the turn, you have NOT committed a contravention. The camera footage should show your right indicator was on and oncoming traffic was blocking your turn. This is an explicit exception in the Highway Code and is widely accepted by tribunals.

Other strong grounds for appeal

• Your exit was clear when you entered but traffic ahead suddenly stopped, blocking your exit
• The box junction markings were faded, damaged, or not clearly visible
• You were forced to stop by a pedestrian crossing or an emergency vehicle
• The camera malfunctioned or the footage does not clearly show a contravention
• Signage warning of the box junction was missing or non-compliant with TSRGD 2016
• The PCN was served late (more than 28 days after the alleged contravention)

How to submit your appeal

Submit a formal representation to the issuing authority within 28 days. Cite Highway Code rule 174, the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016, and the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. Include dashcam footage or Google Street View images showing the junction layout. If rejected, escalate to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal (or London Tribunals in London) — both are free.