Simply Giving Way Won't Be Enough: Ministry of Transport of Russia Changes Rules for Letting Vehicles with Flashing Lights Pass

The Ministry of Transport of Russia is preparing changes to the rules of the road (traffic laws) regarding the behavior of drivers when encountering vehicles with special signals. The new rules will require drivers to maneuver to clear the way for emergency services (ambulances, police, and firefighters).

The innovation aims to reduce delays for emergency services en route to a call and increase their efficiency. On average, more than 100,000 cases are recorded annually where drivers do not give way to special transport. The largest number of such cases is observed in Moscow and the Moscow region, as well as in the southern regions of the country.

The new version of the rules clarifies that when a vehicle with blue flashing lights approaches, drivers must give way or clear the lane. If the flashing lights are combined—blue and red—it is necessary to let accompanying vehicles pass as well. Drivers are also required to use appropriate maneuvers, such as changing to the adjacent lane.

Refusal to "give way" is punishable by a fine ranging from 500 rubles to deprivation of rights for up to three months.

According to a correspondent from www1.ru, in Moscow, on roads with two or more lanes, drivers almost always try to change lanes and give way to vehicles with special signals.

Earlier, www1.ru reported that drivers are massively receiving fines for traffic violations at the rates of 2024.

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