Police in Washington are having a big 'effect' on motorists who abuse bus lanes.
Officers are running operation Effect after complaints from the public about drivers flaunting local bus link restrictions.
Neighbourhood Inspector Paul Stewart from Washington said: "Bus only link lanes are in place for a reason and impatient drivers who flout the law to try to save a few minutes on their journey time will face a penalty.
"Officers have been carrying out extra patrols in these areas to enforce the law and motorists are noticing the effects."
Since May 8, officers in the Barmston area have issued over 30 fixed penalty notices, which are hitting motorists in their pockets with £30 fines. Police are continuing with the enforcement of all bus link sites across Washington over the coming weeks.
Insp Stewart added: "We want to get the message across that these bus link restrictions are legally enforceable and that is what our officers are doing.
"Those illegally using the bus lane are causing problems and proving a hindrance to buses. It's also a road safety issue that could result in a serious collision.
"We're conducting regular patrols of the area to take enforcement action and fixed penalty tickets will be issued to anyone caught using the bus lane. We would also encourage residents to report vehicles seen contravening these bus lanes to the police."
The Chair of Washington Area Committee, Councillor Bernard Scaplehorn, said: "The bus link improvement schemes were introduced by the City Council following extensive consultations in each area involving the local community, local councillors and key partner organisations such as the Police and Nexus.
"Proactive enforcement gives a clear message to the small number of drivers who continue to ignore the law."
"The bus only link lanes are there for a reason, to help get passengers to their destinations as quickly and safely as possible, but the car drivers who are unlawfully using these lanes are preventing that from happening, which impacts on road safety and the amenity of the area."
"Everyone needs to be aware of the law, but equally aware of the needs of other road users and we hope Operation Effects will help us to promote that message."
Anyone with concerns about crime or anti-social behaviour where they live should contact their Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101 ext 69191.