Ticket 9 question 16 Traffic rules: who gives way at an intersection with a tram?

Question 16 of ticket 9 SDA 2026 - one of the most insidious in exam papers. It tests knowledge of travel rules unregulated intersections with tram tracks, where many cadets make mistakes. The difficulty lies in the combination of three factors: tram priority, directions of movement and type of intersection. Even experienced drivers sometimes get confused in such situations, not to mention beginners.

This question is important not only for passing the theory. In real life wrong way to pass this intersection is fraught with an accident with a tram - and these are always serious consequences. We will analyze the issue step by step: from analyzing the picture to the nuances of traffic rules that not everyone notices. And we'll also tell you, how to remember the rule once and for allso as not to lose points on the exam.

Let us warn you right away: in 2026, new new nuancesrelated to changes in markings and signs. If you are learning traffic rules using old tickets, be sure to check the current edition!

Question text and picture: what can be seen in the diagram?

The wording of the question in ticket 9 is: “Who should give way when changing lanes?”

The picture shows:

• 🚦 Unregulated intersection (no traffic lights and traffic controller).
• 🚋 Tram tracks, passing in the middle of the road (a typical situation for many cities).
• 🚗 Passenger car (your vehicle) moving straight in its lane.
• 🚋 Tramwho is turning left from a passing direction.

Key Point: At the Crossroads no priority signs (for example, “Give way” or “Main road”). This means that we are dealing with equivalent intersection, where general travel rules apply.

Pay attention to the markings: tram tracks not separated by a solid line from the roadway. This is important because in some cases solid markings change the rules of maneuver.

Analysis of the traffic rules situation: who is inferior to whom?

To answer correctly, you need to remember three points of the Rules:

1. Clause 13.9 Traffic Regulations: at the intersection of equivalent roads, the tram has priority regardless of direction of movement.
2. Clause 13.10 of traffic rules: if trackless vehicles move along an equivalent road, the one who gives way is on the right (“right hand rule”).
3. Clause 8.1 Traffic Regulations: before turning or making a U-turn, the driver must give way pedestrians and cyclists, but in this matter this is irrelevant.

Now let's apply this to our situation:

• 🚋 Tram always has the right of way at an equivalent intersection, even if it turns left and you are moving straight.
• 🚗 Your car must give way to the tram, as tram tracks are considered part of the roadway, and the tram is considered the “king” at equivalent intersections.

Many people mistakenly think that if the tram is turning and you are moving straight, then it should give way. This blunder! The tram is inferior only in three cases:

1. When leaving the depot.
2. When moving along on a minor road (and our road is equivalent!).
3. When the traffic light is on at the intersection (and the tram is red).

Typical mistakes of cadets during the exam

According to traffic police statistics, this issue falls into TOP-5 most difficult in traffic tickets. Here's why cadets make mistakes:

Error 1: “The tram is turning, which means it is yielding”

Many people forget that the tram has priority regardless of the direction of travel. Even if he turns left and you turn straight, you must let him pass.

Mistake 2: “No signs mean I’m in charge”

At an equivalent intersection without priority signs, the “right hand” rule applies. only between trackless vehicles. Tram always outside of this logic.

Mistake 3: Confusion with signalized intersections

If there is a traffic light at an intersection (even a broken one!), the rules change. The question clearly states that the intersection unregulated.

Mistake 4: Misinterpreting markup

Some people think that if the tram tracks are separated by markings, then the tram is “not on their lane.” In fact, the markup 1.18 (directional arrows) does not affect priority.

What happens if you don't give way to the tram?

The fine for failure to comply with traffic regulations to give way to a vehicle that has the right of way (Part 2 of Article 12.13 of the Administrative Code) is 1,000 rubles. In the event of an accident, the fault will be entirely with the driver of the car, even if the tram made a maneuver.

How to remember the rule once and for all?

There are three proven methods that help cadets:

Method 1: Mnemonic rule “TRAM IS ALWAYS IMPORTANT”

Remember the phrase: “A tram is like a king: on equal roads it is always first”. This works for all unregulated intersections, except when the tram leaves the depot.

Method 2: Priority Scheme

Draw a table in your mind:

Intersection type	Tram	Car
Equivalent unregulated	🚦 Always in charge	🚗 Inferior
Unequal (tram on the main road)	🚦 Chief	🚗 Inferior
Unequal (tram on the secondary)	🚦 Inferior	🚗 Chief
Adjustable (traffic light)	🚦 On signal	🚗 On signal

Method 3: Association with the railway

Imagine that a tram is train, and the intersection - railway crossing without barrier. You won't go perpendicular to the train, will you? Also here: tram tracks are like rails, and the tram has priority.

Make sure that the intersection is unregulated|

Check if roads are equivalent (no priority signs)|

Remember that the tram is always the main one at an equivalent intersection |

See if the tram is leaving the depot (if so, it gives way)

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What has changed in the 2026 traffic rules?

In 2026, two important clarifications were made to the rules for crossing intersections with tram tracks:

1. Explicit indication of “equivalence”: previously the wording was vague, now it is clearly stated that the tram has priority exclusively on equivalent roads.
2. New signs for tram tracks: a sign appeared 5.15.8 (“Direction of traffic along the lanes”), which can duplicate the markings. If the sign and markings contradict - sign priority.

They also clarified that if the tram moves along a dedicated lane, indicated by the sign 5.14.1, this does not affect its priority at the intersection. Previously, some inspectors interpreted this as a “tram on a separate road”, but now it is clarified: dedicated lane ≠ separate roadway.

Practical advice for the real road

In the exam you answer a question based on a picture, but in life everything is more complicated. Here's what to remember:

Tip 1: Reduce speed early

If you see tram tracks that cross your road, slow down in advance. The tram may leave unexpectedly, especially if it is blocked by other cars.

Tip 2: Watch the tram signals

Trams have turn indicators (usually in the form of arrows on the windshield). If the tram turns on its left turn signal, be prepared to yield.

Tip 3: Beware of trams that cut you off

In some cities (for example, St. Petersburg) trams can restructure abruptly before the intersection. Keep your distance!

Tip 4: Be especially careful in fog or rain

The tram tracks are slippery and the tram cannot brake suddenly. If you see a tram at an intersection, don't risk slipping - He may not have time to stop.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about ticket 9, question 16

And if the tram is at a stop, should I let it pass?

No! The tram advantage rule applies only at intersections. If the tram is at a stop before intersection, you can pass first (but be careful - it may move unexpectedly).

What should you do if a tram and a car leave the roundabout at the same time?

At the roundabout (roundabout) there is a tram loses advantage, if he leaves it and you drive in. But if you both already on the ring, main tram.

If a tram is traveling in the oncoming lane, should I let it pass?

No! The tram advantage rule applies only when incidentally movement. If the tram is moving counter (for example, on two-way tracks), you are guided by the usual rules for driving through intersections.

Can a tram give way voluntarily?

Yes, the tram driver can gesture show what lets you through. But rely on this it's impossible - if an accident occurs, the blame will be on you, since according to the traffic rules you were obliged to yield.

What if there is both a tram and a car on the right at the intersection?

First you skip tram (he is the main one at the equivalent intersection), and then - the car on the right (according to the “right hand” rule).

Now you know everything about question 16 from ticket 9! To consolidate the material, take the test again and pay attention to details pictures: Are there any signs, what the markings are, where the tram is going. This will help you avoid mistakes in the exam and on the road.

⚠️ Attention! In some regions (for example, in Moscow), tram tracks may be marked non-standard markup. Always follow the signs and remember: when in doubt, give way to the tram. It's safer than arguing with the inspector or risking an accident.