Melbourne drivers who block intersections are being warned they could face harsh fines, even if they don't go through red lights.

More than just inconvenient and rude, "road hoggers" who go through a yellow light when there’s not enough room are putting lives at risk, Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Doug Fryer told 9NEWS.

“It increases the risk, particularly with pedestrians in the CBD,” Comm. Fryer said.

Last year there were 326 infringements issued for drivers who blocked roads, attracting a $159 fine.

If you're guilty of this kind of driving, you could face harsher penalties in the near future. (9NEWS) (9news)

'Road hoggers' are not only inconvenient, they can put lives at risk. (9NEWS) (9news)

Comm. Fryer said police are looking at stepping up the punishment for road blockers, and could take inspiration from authorities in New York City, where drivers lose licence points if they “block the box”.

“I’ve been talking to our local CBD police and we will be increasing our enforcement on this because we understand it's a real problem,” he said.

Road authorities said drivers can avoid fines by showing a little more courtesy; it only takes 90 seconds for a light cycle to change from red to green, and back to red again.

“Of course if there's a yellow light they should be stopping and not risking being the last car into the intersection and getting caught,” Dave Jones from the RACV said.