The rule “walk around the bus in the back and the tram in front” is based on the physical dimensions of the vehicles and the characteristics of their maneuvering in city traffic. Tram has a rigid trajectory of movement along the rails and cannot move sideways, while bus often makes unplanned maneuvers, moving out of the pocket into the traffic lane. Ignoring this logic when trying to get ahead of public transport often leads to accidents, since the bus driver may not see a pedestrian or car in his blind spot, and the tram will not physically avoid a collision.
Understanding the dynamics of large vehicles is critical to the safety of all road users. The bus driver drives a long vehicle, the turning radius and dimensions of which significantly exceed the parameters of a passenger car. At the same time blind spots such cars are huge, and if you are on the side or behind, the driver may simply not be aware of your presence. That is why the overtaking or detour maneuver requires a clear algorithm of actions that eliminates the risk of a side collision or cutting off.
In this article we will analyze the technical and legal aspects of interaction with route vehicles. You'll find out why overtaking a tram on the right side is strictly prohibited in most cases, and what exceptions exist for avoiding a stopped bus. Compliance with these rules will not only protect you from fines, but will also save lives, since the inertia of a multi-ton machine will not allow it to stop instantly if an emergency occurs.
Physics of motion and dimensions of public transportTram and bus - these are fundamentally different types of vehicles from the point of view of motion mechanics. The tram is rigidly tied to the rail track, which makes it impossible to maneuver within the lane. Its width is strictly fixed, and any deviations from the track axis are impossible without derailment, which is an emergency. The tram driver always knows where his wheels are and does not make sudden lane changes unless this is provided for by the design of the switches or junctions.
The bus, on the contrary, moves on asphalt and depends on the actions of the driver, who may be susceptible to fatigue or inattention. Bus dimensions create significant blind spots, especially in the rear and immediately at the front side. When starting to move from a stop, the bus driver must ensure safety, but due to the high seating position and design of the mirrors, he may not notice a passenger car that has decided to pass on the right or cut off on the left. It is the physical ability of the bus to move within the lane that dictates the need for increased caution.
In addition, it should be taken into account inertia. Stopping a fully loaded bus or tram requires a significantly greater distance than stopping a passenger car. If a pedestrian or car is in front of public transport, you won’t be able to brake instantly. Therefore, the “tram in front” rule means that we do not get under its wheels, knowing that it will not swerve, and the “bus in the back” rule means that we do not cling closely to it, waiting for it to start moving.
- 🚍 The bus has wide blind spots on the sides and back, which makes it dangerous to be near it.
- 🚃 The tram moves strictly on the rails and cannot go around the obstacle, moving to the side.
- ⚖️ The inertia of public transport is 3-5 times higher than that of passenger cars, increasing the braking distance.
- 👁️ Due to the high seating position, the bus driver may not see low cars or children in the immediate vicinity.
Why is it dangerous to overtake a bus on the right?Many drivers make the mistake of trying to overtake a stationary or slow-moving bus on the right, especially when it stops at uncontrolled stops. According to Traffic rules, overtaking on the right is prohibited, but even passing on the right carries hidden threats. The main problem is that the bus, after stopping passengers, is required to continue moving along the route. To do this, he needs to enter the roadway, and he will begin to move to the left, occupying his lane.
At this moment, the car on the right gets into risk zone. The bus driver looks to the left, assessing the flow of traffic, and may not notice the traffic moving on the right. Opening doors abruptly or starting to drive without full control of the right side is a common cause of “grinding” and scratches. Moreover, through the bus windows it is often impossible to see what is going on behind its sides, and the mirrors do not cover the whole picture of what is happening.
The situation gets worse if the bus starts moving when the traffic light is green. The driver is focused on changing gears and controlling the left side of the body. If at this moment you decide to pass on the right, there is a high probability of a side impact. Safer wait until the bus has completely cleared the lane and moved to a safe distance, or carefully drive around it on the left, making sure that there is no oncoming traffic and that the markings are observed.
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to slip between the bus and the curb on the right when it starts moving often ends in an accident, since the bus driver does not physically see your car in the blind spot of the mirrors.
Features of interaction with tram tracksTram tracks are a high-risk area that requires special attention and knowledge of priorities from the car driver. Tram almost always has an advantage over other vehicles, with the exception of cases when it leaves the depot or moves under a signal from a traffic controller, allowing the passage of other road users. The phrase "walk in front of the tram" in a safety context means that you should never try to get in front of an oncoming tram, even if you think you can make it.
The braking distance of a tram on wet asphalt or in the presence of leaves on the rails can reach tens of meters. The tram driver cannot turn sharply to avoid a collision. If you see tram, even if it is standing, do not rush to dive in front of it. Make sure it will not start to move and that it is large enough to allow you to manoeuvre. Often trams have a significant overhang of the body over the rails, and an inexperienced driver can catch it on the sidewall.
Of particular danger are intersections with tram tracks. Here it is important to remember the “interference from the right” rule and tram priority. If you are turning and the tram is moving straight ahead, you must yield. Trying to “slip” in front of a tram when turning left is one of the most common causes of serious accidents. The tram will not stop, and the inertia of the multi-ton structure will lead to serious consequences for the passenger car.
Rules for overtaking stopped vehicles at bus stopsA public transport stop is a place where pedestrians concentrate and make sudden maneuvers. According to traffic rules, if a bus or trolleybus is marked with a left turn signal and is at a stop, drivers of other vehicles are required to give way to it when starting to move. This rule is directly related to the “go around from behind” logic. You must be prepared for the fact that a minibus or a large bus will now start moving.
If the bus just stands there without the turn signals on, the situation remains ambiguous. Passengers may run out from behind the front of the bus, creating a danger for those trying to overtake from the front. You can overtake such vehicles on the left only after making sure that the oncoming lane is clear and the bus itself does not start moving. Detour on the right in such cases, it often leads to collisions with pedestrians who cross the road in front of the bus without seeing your car.
It is also important to consider the presence dividing strip. If it is solid, any maneuver through it is prohibited. If the markings are intermittent, the maneuver is possible, but requires double control: behind the bus (to see if it will go) and behind the oncoming lane. In heavy city traffic, it's better to be patient and wait in line than to risk trying to burn out a few seconds.
☑️ Safely bypass the stop
Blind spots and pedestrian hazardsPedestrians often fall victim to misunderstandings about the dimensions of public transport. The phrase “walk around the back of the bus” is also relevant for them. When getting off the bus, a passenger often sees only the flow of cars on the left, but does not notice those who are overtaking the bus on the right. The driver of an overtaking car may also not notice a pedestrian hidden by the body of the bus. This is a classic "double overlap" pattern that leads to collisions.
For a car driver, bus blind spots are areas where he simply cannot see what is happening. Rear view mirrors on large cars are often convex and give a distorted picture, and line of sight is limited by the pillars and body structure. If you are in an area where the bus driver cannot see and he starts to maneuver, a collision will become inevitable. Safe distance is the only way to avoid problems.
The tram is more predictable in this regard, but also more dangerous due to its mass. Pedestrians crossing the tracks in front of a tram often do not realize that the driver cannot see them due to the cab design and viewing angle. In addition, the tram moves more silently than the bus (especially modern models), which disorients people. "Front" rule here means: never cross the tracks in front of a moving or potentially ready to move tram.
| Vehicle type | Main blind spot | Risk for cars | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | Right rear and front | High (sharp start) | Only go around on the left with reserve |
| Tram | Directly at the sides | Medium (hard trajectory) | Don't cross paths in front of him |
| Trolleybus | Accordion turning zone | High (rear shift) | Keep your distance when turning |
| Minibus | All periphery | Critical (frequent stops) | Maximum caution |
Fines and legal liabilityViolation of the rules for overtaking and bypassing public transport entails administrative liability. Drifting into the oncoming lane when overtaking in the area covered by a “No Stopping” sign or across a solid marking line is dangerous. deprivation of rights for a period of 4 to 6 months. If the maneuver is made in a public transport stop zone in violation of the requirements of the signs, the fine is 1,500 rubles (or 3,000 rubles for Moscow and St. Petersburg).
Particular attention should be paid to the situation when the driver does not give way to a bus leaving the stop. This is a violation of clause 18.3 of the traffic rules, which is punishable by a fine of 500 rubles. Although the amount seems small, in the event of an accident it is this fact that will be decisive in establishing guilt. The insurance company may apply a recourse claim if a gross violation of traffic rules is proven.
Practical tips for safe drivingTo minimize risks, always reduce your speed when approaching public transport stops. Even if the bus is far ahead, be prepared for the fact that a pedestrian may jump out from behind it or start moving on its own. Use light alarmto indicate your presence, but don't rely on the bus driver to notice you.
When overtaking a tram, make sure there is enough space between your car and the tram for safe passage and that the tram will not start moving. If the tram is parked in the middle of the road and boarding is from the roadway, go around it only on the left, stopping first and letting passengers through. This traffic requirement is often ignored, but it is critically important for people's safety.
⚠️ Attention: In winter, the braking distance of the tram increases significantly due to snow and ice on the rails. Never expect a tram to slow down if you jump out in front of it.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to overtake a bus on the right if it is at a stop?
Overtaking on the right is prohibited by the Traffic Rules. A detour on the right is possible only if it does not contradict the markings and signs, but doing this is extremely dangerous due to the risk of the bus starting to move and pedestrians getting out. It is better to wait until there is a safe way to pass on the left.
Who has the advantage: the tram or the car?
The tram has priority over cars in all cases, except for leaving the depot and moving under the signal of a traffic controller or traffic light, where priority is given to others. When turning, a car must give way to a tram moving in the same direction.
What is the fine for overtaking a bus at a bus stop?
The fine depends on the specific violation. If overtaking is carried out by crossing a solid line - deprivation of rights. If you simply did not give way to an departing bus - 500 rubles. If overtaking is carried out in the area of prohibition signs - up to 3,000 rubles.
Why is the bus called an “accordion” and is it dangerous?
Articulated buses are called "accordion". They are dangerous because when turning, the rear part of the body moves inward of the turn (folding effect), which can lead to hitting vehicles located in the “blind” spot next to the rear door.