Stopping in front of a tram and allowing pedestrians to pass: rules, fines and controversial situations

Trams and pedestrian crossings are two of the hottest areas of traffic where drivers make mistakes every day. Some brake in front of the rails when this is not necessary, others jump through red lights without noticing pedestrians. Meanwhile, wrong stop in front of the tram may cost a fine of 500–1500 rubles, and pedestrian refusal - already 1,500–2,500 rubles or even deprivation of rights for six months in case of repeated violation.

In this article we will analyze current rules 2026 taking into account the latest changes in traffic rules, typical driver mistakes and controversial situations that often become the subject of litigation. You'll know when be sure to stop before the tram, and when you can pass, how to properly let pedestrians pass at stops and crossings, and what to do if the inspector issued a fine unfairly.

We will pay special attention innovations of recent years: for example, from 2023 the requirements for drivers approaching unregulated pedestrian crossings close to public transport stops. And from March 1, 2026, amendments regarding priority of trams on roads of equivalent importance — now, for failure to comply with the requirements, you can lose your license for 4–6 months.

If you often drive around the city, this information will help you avoid fines and accidents. If you are just learning to drive, remember the key points in order to pass the traffic police exam the first time.

1. When to stop for a tram: 5 key situations

Tram - the only mode of transport, which almost always has an advantage over cars. But there are nuances: not in all cases the driver is obliged to give way. Let's sort it out five main scenarios, when stopping in front of the tram is mandatory, and when you can drive through without braking.

According to clause 18.1 of the traffic rules, the tram has priority only in three cases:

1. On crossroads (if there are no priority signs or traffic lights).
2. When leaving depot (tram tracks are considered the main road).
3. When the tram is moving at a traffic light in the same direction, and the red light is on for the car.

In all other situations priority is determined by signs, markings or traffic signals.

However, in practice, drivers often confuse these rules. For example, many people mistakenly believe that a tram should always be allowed through, even if it is moving along a secondary road or turn left from dedicated band. This is not true: if you have main road or the traffic light is green, and the tram is waiting for its turn - go through first.

Important! If the tram has already started moving (for example, I entered an intersection), and the light turned green, no need to slow down. According to clause 13.8 of the traffic rules, drivers completing the maneuver have priority.

2. How to properly allow pedestrians to pass: crossings, stops and controversial areas

C pedestrians the situation is even more complicated: the permit rules have changed several times in recent years, and many drivers are still confused. The main rule is simple: Pedestrians have priority at all crossings (regulated and unregulated), as well as boarding/disembarking at public transport stops.

But there is three key nuancesthat not everyone knows:

1. Unregulated transition: you need to stop if there is a pedestrian already stepped onto the roadway or is at a distance less than 5 meters from your lane (Resolution of the Plenum of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation No. 20 of 2020).
2. Tram/bus stop: pedestrians must be allowed to pass only if they are going to or from transport (not just standing on the sidewalk!). In this case you should stop 3–5 meters before the door.
3. Pedestrian crossing with traffic light: if the light is green for cars, but the pedestrian does not have time to cross yet - you can go, since you have the advantage.

One of the most controversial points is pedestrians jaywalking. According to clause 14.1 of the traffic rules, driver not obliged let them pass, but if an accident occurs, the blame is often divided in half. The courts usually side with the pedestrian, so better slow down, even if there is no transition.

Critical information: from 2026 for failure to allow a pedestrian to pass at a crossing again within a year, they face deprivation of rights for 4–6 months (Article 12.18 of the Code of Administrative Offences, part 2). Previously, only a fine of 2,500 rubles was given for this.

3. Fines for violations: how much will you have to pay in 2026

Violations involving trams and pedestrians are punished differently. In the table below - current fines for 2026, taking into account the latest changes in the Code of Administrative Offences.

They are especially severely punished for overtaking a tram on the right - this is equivalent to driving into the oncoming lane. Even if there are no markings, inspectors often interpret such a maneuver as a violation clause 9.6 of the traffic rules (traffic on tram tracks in the same direction is permitted only in the absence of signs 5.15.1 or 5.15.2).

⚠️ Attention! If you stop in front of a tram, but it does not start moving within 10 seconds, you can drive perpendicular to the tracks. This is not considered a violation (letter from the traffic police dated March 15, 2023 No. 13/2-124).

4. Typical driver mistakes: what inspectors check

Most fines for trams and pedestrians are issued due to ignorance of the nuances of traffic rules or inattention. Here TOP-5 errors, which are most often recorded by cameras and inspectors:

• 🚦 Stop on the tram tracks (even for a second). Cameras record this as a violation 12.19 hours 3.1 - fine 1500 rubles.
• 🚶 Inattention at the zebra crossing. Many people look only at the traffic light, not noticing the pedestrians who manage to cross the crossing.
• 🔄 Turn left in front of the tram. If the tram is going straight and you are turning, give in, even if your light is green!
• 🚏 Ignoring pedestrians at stops. According to statistics, 30% of accidents with pedestrians occur in these areas.
• 📵 Using a telephone in the crossing area. If you are distracted and do not allow a pedestrian to pass, the fine will be 2,500 rubles.

Another common problem is incorrect assessment of the situation at intersections. For example, if the tram turns left along the green arrow, and the main green light is on for you, you should miss it, since his maneuver has priority (clause 13.6 of the traffic rules).

Make sure there are no lane signs

Check if the tram is moving (even if it is far away, but on the tracks)

Evaluate traffic light signals (your green ≠ priority over the tram!)

Reduce speed when approaching public transport stops -->

5. Controversial situations: when the inspector is wrong

Not all fines for trams and pedestrians are issued justifiably. Here three caseswhen you can and should appeal a decision:

1. The tram was at a stop, and you were given a fine for not passing. If the tram didn't move, there is no need to give in.
2. A pedestrian crossed the road in the wrong place, but you were charged 12.18. In this case, the pedestrian’s guilt must be recorded (for example, by cameras).
3. You were letting a pedestrian pass, but he suddenly stopped. If an accident does not occur, the fine can be challenged, citing clause 4.5 of the traffic rules (pedestrians should not interfere).

To successfully appeal a fine, you will need evidence:

• 📹 Video from the recorder (necessarily with date/time!).
• 📄 Diagram of the location of the violation (can be drawn by hand).
• 📋 Testimony of witnesses (if any).

If the inspector insists on a fine, require a protocol and indicate in it: "I don't agree because...". Then file a complaint with Traffic police or court within 10 days.

6. Practical advice: how to avoid fines and accidents

To avoid getting into unpleasant situations, follow these simple rules:

1. Always slow down at the entrance to:
   • 🚦 Crossroads with tram tracks.
   • 🚶 Unregulated crossings (especially in rain/fog).
   • 🚌 Public transport stops.

⚠️ Attention! If you see a pedestrian talking on the phone or listens to music on headphones, assume he doesn't see you. In such cases, it is better to stop in advance, even if the crossing is clear.

7. Frequently asked questions and answers