Transport for London (TfL), has stepped up its enforcement of Advanced Stop Lines at traffic lights, more commonly known as 'bike boxes' in a move to increase safety for cyclists.

The cyclist has a stop line several feet ahead of the line used by everyone else to give bikes more space so they can be seen more easily and are not immediately in front of a vehicle's bonnet or wheels. However, very significant numbers of drivers are not currently stopping at the rear line.

The Mayor's Cycling Commissioner, Andrew Gilligan said, “It may be that some drivers don't realise they aren't allowed over the Advanced Stop Lines, and when the lights are red, those areas quite often have cars and lorries all over them, completely defeating their purpose.”

Drivers caught crossing the first or second advanced stop lines when the signal is red will be liable for a £60 fixed penalty charge and three points on their licence.  The only exception to this rule is if the traffic signal changes from green to amber and drivers cannot safely stop before the first stop line.

In addition to stepping up enforcement on motorists, rogue cyclists are also being targeted with £30 fines for those caught jumping red lights.