The situation on the road develops rapidly, and often the driver faces a dilemma: a patrol car with the on-line is moving ahead. flashingAnd the flow rate is low. Instinctively want to speed up and overtake, so as not to stand idle in the tail, but the special signals turned on change the rules of the game. Many motorists mistakenly believe that the ban only applies to overtaking the police car itself, ignoring the context of traffic.
In fact, the presence of flashing-beacon Blue or red-blue imposes a number of limitations on the participants of the movement, which are not always obvious. The main thing to understand is that priority in movement is not only given to the operational services themselves, but also to the safety of their tasks. Overtaking of a traffic police vehicle with a blue beacon on, performing a service assignment, is prohibited regardless of the lane.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the legal subtleties, the difference between different color signals, and the consequences of violating the rules of maneuvering near the patrol. Understanding these nuances will help to avoid not only fines, but also dangerous situations on the track. Let's find out where the line between permitted advance and gross violation is.
Legal basis: what the traffic rules say
The fundamental document regulating traffic is the Rules of the Road. According to paragraph 3.1 RF SDADrivers are obliged to give way to vehicles with a flashing blue light. This requirement applies not only to intersections but also to all sections of the road, including straight sections with good visibility.
However, the issue of overtaking is governed by more specific points. In particular, paragraph 3.2 of the traffic rules that it is forbidden to overtake vehicles with the blue beacon switched on. This is an absolute ban, which has no exceptions for conventional civilian cars. It is important to distinguish between “ahead” and “overtaking”, as the legal consequences may differ.
If the patrol car is moving in the stream and just takes a lane, formally you can move at the same speed. But as soon as you start the maneuver with the exit to the oncoming lane, strict restrictions come into force. Ignoring these rules is tantamount to obstructing the performance of official duties.
Difference between blue and orange beacons
The color gamut of special signals is critical to determining priority. Blue or red-blue A beacon means that the vehicle is performing an urgent service task related to security or law enforcement. In this case, all other participants of the movement are obliged to give way and not to interfere with the passage.
At the same time, orange or yellow The beacon, which can also be found on traffic police cars (for example, when escorting columns or carrying out road works), gives only an advantage in movement. It warns of increased danger, but does not require other drivers to stop completely or ban overtaking unless it is prohibited by signs.
Always pay attention to the color of the flashing light: blue requires you to give way, orange only warns you of danger.
So if you see a car with an orange beacon, you can overtake, making sure the maneuver is safe. If the blue light is on, any active advance action should be stopped before the signal is turned off or the traffic situation changes.
Scenarios on the road: when overtaking is prohibited
There are several typical situations in which trying to overtake a patrol can lead to serious consequences. The first and most obvious is when the traffic police car is moving ahead of you with the flashing light on. Going to the oncoming lane to overtake him at this moment is a direct violation.
The second scenario is a stopped patrol car. If inspectors conduct an inspection or make an accident, the area around them is considered to be of increased danger. Overtaking in this case is not only prohibited, but can also be regarded as a threat to the lives of employees. The third scenario is the movement in the column.
It is also worth remembering the situation when a patrol car moves on the oncoming lane with the signals on. In this case, you are obliged to slow down and, if necessary, stop to allow him to complete the maneuver. Any movement towards the flow of special equipment is strictly regulated.
Liability and amount of fines
Violation of the rules of overtaking a vehicle with special signals on entails administrative liability. According to part 2 of article 12.15 of the administrative code of the Russian Federation, leaving the lane intended for oncoming traffic, overtaking, prohibited by the rules, threatens with a fine or deprivation of rights.
The amount of the penalty depends on the specific situation and the decision of the judge or inspector. Usually this is a fine of 5000 rubles or deprivation of the right to drive a vehicle for a period of 4 to 6 months. When the penalty is repeated, the penalty becomes stricter.
The following is a table with the main types of violations and the corresponding penalties:
| Type of violation | Article of the Cao | Punishment |
|---|---|---|
| Overtaking with a meeting | 12.15 a.m. 4. | Fine of 5,000 rubles. Or 4-6 months. |
| Repeated overtaking with a meeting | 12.15 a.m. 5 | Deprivation of rights for 1 year |
| Failure to comply with the requirement to give way | 12.17 a.m. 1 1 1 1 | Fine 500 rubles. warning |
| Failure to comply with the requirement to stop | 12.17 a.m. 2 2 2 | Fine 500-800 rubles. Or 1-3 months deprivation. |
Repeated violation of the rules of overtaking during the year leads to deprivation of rights, even if the first time got away with a fine.
Algorithm of actions when you see the patrol in front
If you notice a traffic police car ahead with the signals on, you need to act in a cold blooded and predictable manner. First of all, assess the traffic situation: are there obstacles ahead, is not formed "engine" from cars. Your job is not to create additional interference.
The next step is to reduce speed and increase distance. Don't push yourself against the bumper of a patrol car. This can be seen as pressure or an attempt to escape. Move smoothly, without sharp changes.
☑️ Actions in the form of DPS
If the flow stops, stay in your place. Attempts to drive around a stopped car on the side of the road or oncoming lane in such a situation are almost guaranteed to lead to a stop by police officers. Keeping calm is the best tactic.
Special cases and exceptions
There are situations where the actions of DPS officers can be regulated by additional instructions. For example, when accompanied by dignitaries or cargo of particular importance, the road may be completely closed. In such cases, ignoring the requirements of the DPS crew is unacceptable.
⚠️ Warning: Attempting to overtake a motorcade or escort vehicle with a siren on may be regarded as hooliganism or a threat to state-level security.
It is also worth considering the work of video cameras installed on patrol cars. Modern complexes Pete-Stop. or vizier Not only speed, but also violations of the rules of maneuvering. The evidence base in such cases is formed automatically.
The only exception when overtaking is formally possible is a situation when the traffic police car is in place without special signals on, and the marking allows you to perform the maneuver. But even in this case, it is necessary to take the utmost care.
Driving Psychology and Safety
In addition to the legal aspects, it is important to take into account the psychological factor. The sight of a flashing light often causes stress in drivers, leading to ill-considered decisions. Aggressive driving next to police creates a nervous atmosphere on the road.
The DPS staff are also road users and people. A sharp cut or risky overtaking can provoke them to react immediately, which will cause your car to stop. Is the saved minute worth the risk?
Accident statistics
According to statistics, accidents involving special services cars often occur during the chaotic maneuvering of other drivers trying to overtake the patrol.
Safety should always be a priority. It is better to lose a few minutes of time behind a patrol than to become a party to an accident or the owner of a new penalty with the prospect of walking.
Can you overtake the DPS if they are on the side of the road without a flashing light?
If the traffic police car is parked on the roadside, does not block the roadway and does not have special signals on, overtaking is allowed, if this does not contradict the markings and signs. However, it is recommended to slow down the speed and show care.
What happens if you overtake the traffic police on the track with a camera?
Cameras are recording the exit to the oncoming lane. If the maneuver was made in the area of the sign "Overtaking is prohibited" or a solid line, you will receive a fine or notice of deprivation of rights by mail, even if the inspector did not stop you.
Does the DPS have the right to demand a stop without a reason?
According to the Administrative regulations, to stop the vehicle, the traffic police officer must have grounds: traffic violation, search for a car, special events or the need to interview witnesses. You can't just stop like that.