Free Traffic Legal Advice

Hi all,

I’m looking for some advice regarding a PCN I’ve received for driving through the Rye Lane / Hanover Park junction.

I was working at the time and relying on Uber navigation, which in hindsight was not suitable for this area. As I approached the junction at around 20mph, I did see a sign but misinterpreted it in the moment. I believed it indicated a time-based restriction (such as no entry during certain hours), and since it was exactly 10pm, I assumed I was outside the restricted period and proceeded.

I accept that this was my mistake; however, the conditions made it more difficult to properly interpret the signage. It was dark at the time, and although the sign is illuminated, it was not immediately clear enough to process correctly while driving. I have attached a JPEG of the first sign I saw.

Upon reviewing the location afterwards on Google Maps, I noticed there is an additional sign near the bus stop stating “No left turn for motor vehicles except for access,” which I did not see on the night. I am unsure whether the “except for access” element is relevant in my case, as I was entering the road specifically to pick up a passenger.

Regarding the final sign positioned near the traffic lights, I did notice it, but due to its placement and angle, I was unable to properly register its meaning in time to safely stop or change direction. By the time it became apparent, I had effectively committed to the route, and there was no clear opportunity to exit or turn around once at the traffic lights.


After entering and reaching the pickup point, I immediately felt something was off — there were no regular vehicles around, only buses, and the layout felt unusual given how I had just come out of normal traffic. I hesitated but assumed I had misunderstood the situation and waited for the passenger.

Shortly after, a passer-by kindly approached me and warned that it was a bus-only route and that I would likely receive a ticket.

Since then, I’ve done some research and found that a significant number of drivers seem to have been caught out at this exact location, many of whom have shared similar experiences here and elsewhere. It appears to be a recurring issue rather than an isolated mistake. I have browsed this forum and found instances of others asking for help for the same location. So far from what i have found on the forum, the cancel only cancelled it once.

From what I’ve seen so far:

* Most people end up paying the PCN
* Some have taken it to the London Tribunal
* I’ve only come across a couple of cases where the council cancelled the ticket


What I’m struggling to understand is whether there is any consistent or successful argument for appeal in cases like this — particularly where:

* The signage may be misread in real-time driving conditions
* Navigation apps route drivers directly into the restriction
* There is a clear pattern of repeated confusion among drivers

I fully accept I drove through the restriction, but I’m trying to determine whether it’s worth appealing based on signage clarity and the volume of similar cases.

Has anyone here successfully challenged a PCN at this specific junction, or does anyone have insight into whether it’s realistically worth taking this further?

Appreciate any guidance.

Photos and Video: https://imgpile.com/p/H4WF9mi

Google Maps:

Note: On the google maps, please make sure to set the date as the latest 2022 as before then sign is not there. It is the road turning left toward Baba LTD and toward KFC.

They cannot serve a charge certificate 28 days from the date of the notice.

The sign with "except for access" is on the 2021 GSV view, and has been replaced with the current sign where those words do not appear. However, the Traffic Order may still have access allowed, so this needs checking. And it's for the left turn only is my interpretation.

Best if you submit reps stating you are a private hire vehicle picking up a person on the street, so needed access. YSay that you are reasonably certain such access is allowed.

Are you prepared to take them to London Tribunals ? You have that right in law, but have to risk the full PCN penalty. There are no additional costs, and hearings are by phone or video.