RULE 178: Junctions controlled by traffic lights

WAS: Do Not unnecessarily encroach on the cyclists’ waiting area

Advanced Stop Lines. Some signal-controlled junctions have Advanced Stop Lines to allow cycles to be positioned ahead of other traffic. Motorists, including motorcyclists, MUST stop at the first white line reached if the lights are amber or red and should avoid blocking the way or encroaching on the marked area at other times, e.g. if the junction ahead is blocked. If your vehicle has proceeded over the first white line at the time that the signal goes red, you MUST stop at the second white line, even if your vehicle is in the marked area. Allow cyclists time and space to move off when the green signal show.

NOW: Think Inside The Box

ASLs were first introduced to give cyclists a head start at the lights, however the lack of enforcement of rule 178 means it has become perfectly acceptable to completely ignore these road markings, or better still interpret the push bike symbol inside the green box as a motorbike/moped/taxi/bus/white van symbol. So, when the lights are on red, simply position yourself inside the box, or motorcyclists may use a variation on the technique, which involves move anywhere in front of the box. Although technically illegal, this allows you to gain an advantage not only over the traffic behind you but also over any cyclists either side you. If effective, you should now find yourself ‘owning the road’.