The spring update of 2020 brought a number of significant adjustments to the lives of Russian drivers, which touched not only markings, but also the very foundations of interaction between road users. Government Decree No. 472The new law, which came into force on April 8, was a response to the accumulated contradictions between signs and road markings, which often put motorists at a standstill. Priorities are now clearly assigned and old inconsistencies have been eliminated by law.
The main goal of the innovations was to create a single, understandable system where the driver’s actions do not depend on what element of the organization of movement he noticed first. The main change is that temporary road signs now have unconditional priority over permanent markings and stationary signs.. This solution simplifies decision-making in difficult road situations, especially in areas of repair work or when changing traffic patterns.
We will discuss in detail how the new rules change the daily practice of driving and what you should pay special attention to avoid fines. Understanding these nuances will help you feel more confident behind the wheel and avoid conflicts with traffic police inspectors. Let’s dive into the technical details of the updated rulebook.
Priority of temporary signs over markings
One of the most painful points in the road legislation for a long time was the situation when the temporary sign contradicted the previously applied markings. From April 8, 2020, this issue has been resolved radically: signage They got a dominant position. If you see a sign installed on a portable rack, it is absolutely impossible to ignore it in favor of a "zebra" or a solid line on the asphalt.
In the past, drivers were often trapped when the old markings prohibited overtaking and the new sign allowed, or vice versa. Now the algorithm is simple: the time sign covers everything. This is logical, as the road environment can change quickly due to accidents or repairs, and repainting the markings every day is physically impossible. The sign is installed instantly.
⚠️ Attention: A sign installed on a portable rack is considered temporary. If the sign is hanging on a stationary metal pipe or attached to a traffic light, it is considered permanent, even if it looks new. Look carefully at the base of the sign.
It is also important to note that the priority of temporary signs extends to cases where they contradict other temporary signs if they are installed later, but within one zone the principle of “last established – first” usually applies, although the situation here is more complex and requires a specific traffic situation. However, the basic rule of “temporary overspends the permanent” works flawlessly.
New parking and stop rules
The parking area has also undergone changes aimed at streamlining the chaotic placement of cars in residential areas and on the roadsides. The new rules clearly regulate the distance that must remain for the passage of other vehicles. If you parked so that the oncoming car can not pass without hitting your car, this is considered a violation.
Particular attention is paid to parking on curb outside of populated areas. Now the stop is allowed only in one row and only on the right. If you stand second or in the pocket behind another car, it will be regarded as interference with movement. The remaining carriageway shall be sufficiently wide for safe passage.
- 🚗 Stopping is allowed only in one row during the movement.
- 🚙 Parking on the side of the road outside the settlement should leave at least 3 meters for travel.
- 🚌 Parking is prohibited at pedestrian crossings and closer than 5 meters in front of them.
In residential areas, the rules have become stricter for truck parking with a permissible maximum weight of more than 3.5 tons. They are now prohibited from parking with the engine on, except in cases where it is necessary for the performance of technological functions (loading, unloading, operation of special equipment). Just for rest or waiting is now banned.
If you have to stop on a narrow road, make sure that there is at least one full car wide space between your car and the solid marking line (or opposite edge of the road). It'll save you from evacuating.
Changes in road markings and signs
The visual language of roads became more understandable, although it required addiction. The changes affected not only priorities but also the appearance of some elements. For example, horizontal markings should now be more contrasting and noticeable at any time of the day. Special attention is paid to divider.
Now, if there is a wide dividing strip on the road, it is forbidden to enter it. This also applies to cases where the markings have worn off and become barely noticeable. The driver must be guided by signs, and if they are not - by residual traces of markings or structural features of the road. I can't guess "I'll pass or not" anymore.
| Element | The old rule. | New rule (from 08.04.2020) |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary sign | Often ignored | Mainly permanent markings |
| Roadside parking | Not regulated clearly | Just one row without interrupting the passage. |
| Intermittent line | We can cross. | You can cross from either side. |
| A solid line. | Crossing is prohibited | Crossing is always forbidden. |
It is also worth mentioning the new requirements for the installation of signs. They should be clearly visible and not blocked by tree branches or billboards. If the sign is hidden and you have received a fine, you have additional arguments to appeal, since the road services are responsible for the readability of the signs.
What to do if a sign is hidden or dropped?
If you prove that the sign was not visible (photos, videos, witness statements), the fine can be contested. However, you should not rely on this – it is better to follow the logic of safe driving.
Traffic in residential areas and courtyards
Residential areas have become a place of increased attention of legislators. The speed limit here remains the same – 20 km / h, but the control over the observance of pedestrian rights has been strengthened. Now pedestrians have the right to move along the entire width of the carriageway, not only on sidewalks, if this does not interfere with transport, but their priority is absolute.
The entry of trucks weighing more than 3.5 tons into residential areas is allowed only for specific tasks: delivery of goods, utilities, garbage disposal. Just drive through the yard on the "Gazelle" or "KamaZ" now impossible. The route should be optimal and shortest.
Parking with a running engine in a residential area is prohibited for more than 5 minutes, unless it is related to boarding / disembarking passengers or loading operations. This rule is designed to combat air pollution and noise. Warming up the car In the yard, it may now cost you a fine if you drag out the process.
⚠️ Attention: The 5-minute rule does not apply to cases where the temperature requires the engine to warm up for safe driving, but it can be difficult to prove this to the inspector. It is better to warm up the car at the exit of the yard.
Fines and liability of drivers
Although the Administrative Offences Code (CAO) has not been amended at the same time as traffic rules, the new traffic rules make some violations more obvious and easily fixable. Photo cameras have learned to recognize new types of violations associated with improper parking and ignoring time signs.
The most common violation was parking in places where it is prohibited by new markings or signs. Fines for parking at a pedestrian crossing or public transport stop remain high. It is also worth remembering the risk of evacuation of the car if it is parked in violation of the new rules of priority signs.
- 📸 Violation of the requirements of the temporary sign - a fine of 500-1500 rubles.
- 🚫 Parking on the spot for disabled people without a sign - a fine of 5000 rubles.
- 🚧 Ignoring markings in the presence of a temporary sign - a fine of up to 5000 rubles or deprivation of rights.
It is important to understand that automatic fixation systems can now read the configuration of temporary signs. If you ignore the sign "Roadworks" or "Narrowing the road" installed by the mobile complex, the letter of happiness will come automatically. The system has become smarter and requires more attention from the driver.