Bus lane penalty and usage

As a learner driver, one of the first things you are told is to always use the bus lane if the notices say you can. For example some bus lanes are only operational during certain times, usually 8-10 am and 4-7 pm whilst others are in use all day apart from weekends. You can find out if you can use a bus lane whilst approaching it as there should be a sign up telling you the times the bus lane is in use.

Bus lane convenience
Using a bus lane is sometimes quicker than using the ‘normal’ driving lane as there may be queues or an accident ahead. Improper use of the bus lane does have serious consequences though. You must remember that the times that are stated for bus lane usage is there for a reason; if the roads are congested during rush hour, it’s designed to speed up public transport.

Bus lane penalty
Bus lanes are usually monitored by bus lane cameras, if a car is seen to contravene the bus lane usage time, then the local authority has the right to pursue that person. Normally a penalty charge notice (PCN) is sent through by post. The person who was driving at the time is liable to pay within 28 days. If the penalty notice is paid within half that time (14 days), then the fine is half the charge. If the registered keeper was not driving at the time, then the person who was should pay the penalty.

Getting out of bus lane penalty
As each council have their own rules about bus lane driving, there are a few things you could do to argue your case:
Turning into a road – if there are no clear road markings that indicate it's ok to turn into a road where a bus lane is present
Bus lane notice – you could argue that further down the road after a junction there is no notice indicating bus lane usage
Bus lane length – it states clearly that bus lanes should end no less than 30 metres before left turn; some people have found that bus lanes are ending up to 20 metres if not 15 metres before a turning

When can you use a bus lane?
Cars are usually permitted if the signage says so such as during off peal hours. Besides those police cars, fire engines, motorcycles and buses can only use bus lanes. Sometimes bus lanes also allow taxis, couriers and other emergency vehicles to use it without the risk of a penalty but the signage will say beforehand.