The traffic rules clearly regulate in which cases the driver is obliged to stop using the car - especially when weather conditions impair visibility and grip on the road. Rain and snowfall refer to conditions under which even a minor malfunction can lead to an accident with serious consequences. But not all car owners know that Traffic regulations 2026 identifies separate points for prohibiting traffic specifically in precipitation.
In this article we will analyze specific faults, in which the traffic police inspector has the right to stop you and prohibit further travel until the problem is resolved. We will also explain why these rules apply specifically in rain or snow, what fines threats for violating them and how to avoid conflicts with the law. Spoiler: we're not just talking about windows and headlights.
Many drivers mistakenly believe that the main thing is for the car to move. However Traffic regulations 2.3.1 contains a list of malfunctions in which the operation of the vehicle is prohibited in principle, and in conditions of limited visibility (rain, snow, fog) this list is expanded. For example, inoperative windshield wiper on the part of the driver in heavy rain can cause an accident, so not only a fine is provided for it, but also traffic ban before renovation.
It is important to understand the difference: some faults allow you to get to a service station or home in dry weather, but become critical during precipitation. We have analyzed Government Decree No. 1090 (current edition 2026) and interviewed auto lawyers to create a checklist for drivers. If your car is hit by one of the points, it’s better not to risk it and call a tow truck.
1. Faulty windshield wipers: when wipers cause a fine
The most obvious but often ignored problem is inoperative windshield wipers. According to paragraph 4.1 List of faults, movement is prohibited if:
- 🚫 The windshield wiper does not work driver's side (passenger may be faulty).
- 🚫 Windshield wipers do not clean the driver’s viewing area (for example, worn blades leave streaks).
- 🚫 The windshield washer does not work (if the windshield wipers cannot cope without liquid).
In rain or snow The traffic police inspector has the right to prohibit traffic, if the windshield wiper does not provide visibility through at least 50% of the windshield. At the same time fine under Article 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses will be 500 rubles, but the main problem is that you will not be allowed to continue until you fix the problem.
Exception: if the windshield wiper breaks down on the way, you can drive to the repair site or parking lot provided that precipitation is light and you do not interfere with other road users. However, during heavy rain or snowstorms, this rule does not apply - movement is strictly prohibited.
If the windshield wiper is stuck in the vertical position, try to gently move it by hand to its original position. Sometimes this helps to temporarily restore operation until repairs are made.
2. Cracks and chips on the windshield: when traffic rules require replacement
Few people know, but cracks in the windshield in the operating area of the windshield wipers may cause a traffic ban in rain or snow. According to paragraph 4.3 List of faults, operation is prohibited if:
- 🔍 There are cracks on the glass that distort the driver’s view (even if they are not in the wiper area).
- 🔍 Chips or scratches that create a blinding effect when hit by the headlights of oncoming cars.
- 🔍 Damage in the glass heating zone (if it interferes with the operation of the “stove”).
In dry weather, the inspector may limit himself to a warning, but in rain or snow the crack turns into a serious threat: water and dirt penetrate into it, impairing visibility, and in frosty weather the crack can go further. Fine for such a violation - the same 500 rubles, but the main consequence is traffic ban until glass replacement.
⚠️ Attention: If the crack is on the passenger side and does not interfere with the driver's view, driving in precipitation is permitted. But if it crosses the wiper operating area, this is a direct prohibition.
3. Non-working headlights and dimensions: why is it deadly in snowfall?
In the dark or in poor visibility (rain, snow, fog) faulty headlights are automatically subject to a traffic ban. According to paragraph 3.3 of the List of faults, you cannot ride if:
- 💡 Don't burn both low beam headlights (even if one is working).
- 💡 Not working side lights (front or back).
- 💡 Defective fog lights, if they were used to improve visibility.
- 💡 The headlight lens is broken or missing (the light blinds oncoming drivers).
In snow or rain the absence of light makes the car almost invisible for other road users. The inspector will not only issue a fine (500–1000 rubles), but also will prohibit further movement before renovation. The exception is if you are driving to a parking or repair site during daylight hours with light precipitation.
What to do if the headlight burns out on the road?
- Turn on the hazard lights.
- Try using fog lights temporarily (if they are working).
- Drive at a speed of no more than 40 km/h, keeping to the right lane.
Low and high beam headlights|Parking lights|Fog lights (if equipped)|Keep the headlight glasses clear of snow and dirt-->
4. Faulty brakes: why they become deadly in the rain
The braking system is a critical element in any conditions, but in rain or snow, its malfunction is exacerbated. According to paragraph 1.1 of the List of faults, movement is prohibited if:
- 🛑 Parking brake does not hold the car on a slope of 16% or more.
- 🛑 Service brake does not provide stopping with an efficiency of less than 5.5 m/s² (tested on a bench).
- 🛑 There is a brake fluid leak or air in the system.
- 🛑 Brake pads are worn out by more than 80%.
In the rain braking distance increases by 1.5–2 times, and if the brakes are faulty, the car may simply not stop in front of an obstacle. Fine for driving with faulty brakes - 500 rubles, but the main thing is the inspector obliged to prohibit movement until the problem is resolved. At the same time The driver pays for the tow truck, not the traffic police.
⚠️ Attention: If the brakes "sink" or the pedal becomes soft, stop immediately and check the brake fluid level. In rain, the risk of brake failure is higher due to moisture entering the system.
How to check the brakes yourself?
1. On a flat road, accelerate to 40 km/h and brake sharply. If the car moves to the side, there is a problem with the pads or calipers.
2. After stopping, check if there is a burning smell from the wheels (overheated pads).
3. Press the brake pedal 3-4 times with force - if it becomes harder, there is air in the system.
5. Worn tires: why “bald” tires in snowfall are a death sentence
In snow or rain tire condition becomes critical. According to paragraph 5.1 List of faults, movement is prohibited if:
- 🚗 Remaining tread depth less than 1.6 mm (for summer tires) or less than 4 mm (for winter).
- 🚗 On the tire there is hernias, cuts or cord separations.
- 🚗 Tires different size or type on one axis.
- 🚗 Tire pressure is more than 20% below normal.
In the snow worn tires do not provide traction, and when braking, the car may skid. The traffic police inspector has the right:
- Issue a fine 500 rubles (under Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code).
- Prohibit further driving until the tires are replaced.
- Send the car to the impound lot (if the driver refuses to repair it).
What to do if the tire bursts on the road?
- Install the spare tire (if it is in good condition).
- If there is no spare tire, call a tow truck.
- Do not try to drive on a stripped tire - this will destroy the rim and suspension.
| Tire type | Minimum tread depth (mm) | Fine for violation (RUB) | Is driving allowed during snowfall? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | 1,6 | 500 | ❌ No |
| Winter (with spikes) | 4,0 | 500 | ❌ No |
| Winter (friction) | 4,0 | 500 | ❌ No |
| All-season | 2,0 | 500 | ⚠️ Allowed only in light precipitation |
6. Faulty windshield washers: why you can’t drive in slush without them
Many drivers underestimate the importance glass washers, but in rain or snow they become critical. According to paragraph 4.2 List of faults, movement is prohibited if:
- 💦 Washer does not work windshield.
- 💦 Washer does not work rear window (if it is provided for by the design).
- 💦 There is no liquid in the washer reservoir (if the system is working properly, but liquid is not supplied).
In slush or wet snow dirt and salt from the road instantly cover the glass, and without a washer, windshield wipers only smear it, impairing visibility. Fine for this violation - 500 rubles, but the main thing is the inspector obliged to prohibit movement before refilling the tank or repairing the system.
⚠️ Attention: If the washer fluid is frozen, do not pour hot water into the reservoir - this may damage the plastic. Use special defrosters or place the car in a warm garage.
Even if the washer works, but the liquid in the reservoir is frozen, this is equivalent to a malfunction. Always use a winter washer with antifreeze!
7. Problems with heated windows: when fogging becomes dangerous
In rain or snow foggy windows can completely deprive the driver of his vision. According to paragraph 4.4 List of faults, movement is prohibited if:
- 🌫️ Doesn't work heated rear window (if it fogs up).
- 🌫️ Doesn't work interior ventilation, which is why the windows constantly fog up.
- 🌫️ Damaged climate control system, making it impossible to remove condensation.
The traffic police inspector can prohibit movement, if fogged windows impair visibility by more than 30%. Fine for this - 500 rubles, but the main problem is that you simply will not see the pedestrian or obstacle.
How to quickly remove fogging?
- Turn the heated windows to maximum.
- Point the air deflectors at the windshield.
- Open the window slightly for fresh air.
- Use an anti-fog agent (available at car dealerships).
Frequently asked questions about traffic bans in rain and snow
Is it possible to drive home if the windshield wiper breaks down in the rain?
Not if the precipitation is heavy. According to traffic regulations, if the windshield wiper on the driver's side is faulty, driving in rain or snow is strictly prohibited. You can call a tow truck or try to fix the wiper on the spot (for example, if it is stuck due to ice).
What is the fine for a crack on the windshield in the wiper area?
Fine - 500 rubles (Article 12.5 of the Administrative Code). But the main thing is not the fine, but the ban on driving in precipitation. The inspector may require that the glass be replaced on site or the car be sent to the impound lot.
What to do if the headlight stops working during snowfall?
If this happens on the way, turn on the emergency lights and move to the nearest service station or parking lot at a speed of no more than 40 km/h, keeping to the right lane. In heavy snowfall, it is better to call a tow truck - the inspector has the right to prohibit movement.
Is it possible to drive on summer tires in winter if there is no snow, but it is raining?
Technically possible, but only if the tread depth is at least 1.6 mm. However, in rain at temperatures below +7°C, summer tires become tanned and lose grip. The inspector will not prohibit traffic, but the risk of an accident increases significantly.
What happens if I refuse the tow truck and continue to drive with a problem?
The inspector has the right detain the vehicle (Article 27.13 of the Administrative Code) and send him to the impound lot. In addition, you risk receiving a fine for disobeying a lawful request of a police officer (up to 15,000 rubles).