Riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is a fine

Usually the traffic police pay little attention to those riding a bicycle on the road. However, a cyclist is the same participant in the movement as a motorcyclist or car driver. Accordingly, all requirements stipulated by the traffic rules apply to it. So, what do the rules of the road for cyclists stipulate?

What is a bicycle according to traffic regulations?

First of all, you need to determine what a bicycle is from a legal point of view, and how to distinguish it from other types of vehicles (vehicles). The traffic rules give this definition, highlighting several key points:

— presence of at least two wheels.

— the driving force is the muscles of the people driving the vehicle.

— an electric motor is acceptable, but not more powerful than 0.25 kW and with automatic shutdown at speeds above 25 km/h.

Thus, a bicycle is distinguished, on the one hand, from wheelchairs (although they move with the help of muscles, they are not considered vehicles), and on the other, from electric mopeds. Installing an internal combustion engine of any type and power turns a bicycle into either a moped or a motorcycle (tricycle, ATV, etc.). But at the same time, a tandem bicycle or velomobile still belongs to the category of bicycles.

It should be noted that if a cyclist gets off the saddle and drives his vehicle (for example, crossing a zebra crossing), he will be considered only as a pedestrian. The rules relating to the vehicle will not apply to it.

The role of a cyclist when riding on the roadway or sidewalk

When a person rides a bicycle, he is characterized by the following features:

Relatively low speed. Although a cyclist is faster than a pedestrian, only trained and experienced cyclists can reach or even exceed the 30 km/h mark.

High vulnerability. Despite any protective equipment (helmet, elbow or knee pads, etc.), a cyclist easily loses his balance - and a fall easily ends in injury or even death. At the same time, due to high speed, a cyclist is more vulnerable than a pedestrian: he cannot stop instantly, nor can he dodge a car.

Low mechanization of the vehicle. A bicycle, as a rule, is not equipped with turn signals or a brake light - and the driver must signal his intentions with gestures.

The bike is universal. Traffic regulations for cyclists allow movement both in special lanes on the road - and on the roadway or, in extreme cases, on the sidewalk, as a pedestrian.

Based on this, you need to consider the rules of cycling.

Traffic rules for cyclists: how should a law-abiding person ride?

Since the rules for cyclists on the road are based on current traffic rules, it makes sense to consider separately those requirements that a bicycle driver must comply with if he wants to avoid violations.

Responsibilities regarding the technical condition of the bicycle

The traffic rules for cyclists regarding the technical condition of the vehicle are very simple. The cyclist is obliged to monitor the serviceability of the following systems of his machine:

The bicycle driver should not worry about everything else - but he must take care of the steering wheel and brakes and ensure they are in good condition. Otherwise, he risks receiving a fine under the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation.

In addition, traffic regulations require that the headlights and tail lights of any vehicle be on in the dark or in poor visibility. Therefore, if your bike does not have these devices, you can only use it during the day. Formally, you are supposed to turn on the headlights during the day, just like on cars, but in practice the traffic police do not enforce this requirement. In addition, not all bicycles are equipped with headlights.

What do traffic rules say about turn signals?

The rules for the movement of cyclists on the roadway also provide for signaling. However, since bicycles usually do not have lights, such signals must be given by the motorist himself with gestures.

According to traffic rules, a cyclist is required to use the following gestures:

- when turning or turning around - an arm extended to the side on the side in which the cyclist is going to turn;

- when stopping or braking – hand (any) raised straight up.

The rules allow the use of a hand, not only moved to the side, but also bent at the elbow, as a turn signal. However, as practice shows, drivers often confuse such a signal with a brake signal, and therefore it is not recommended to use it.

Alcohol is always a violation of the rules!

Since a bicycle is still considered a means of transport, driving it while intoxicated is strictly prohibited. If a drunk cyclist is stopped, he will have to answer according to the law.

In addition, traffic regulations directly prohibit the transfer of control to a drunk person. Therefore, a bicycle owner who lends his vehicle to a drunk friend for a ride will also be held liable.

Traffic rights for cyclists

And now - the most important thing: which side of the road should a cyclist ride on?

The rules for cycling in the city are as follows: cycling must take place on a path specially designated for cyclists. However, such paths are extremely rare in Russia, only in large cities. Where there is no such allocation, the bicycle driver must be guided by the following rules:

- if there is no bicycle or bicycle pedestrian path, the cyclist must ride along the roadway on the right.

- if for some reason it is not possible to move on the road, the cyclist should move along the side of the road.

- and only as a last resort, when there are no other options, is driving on the sidewalk allowed.

The points are mutually exclusive, therefore, having reached a place where there is a bicycle path marking or a “Bicycle” road sign, you must urgently change lanes, move off the side of the road or from the sidewalk. Otherwise, it will be considered a violation of the rules with all the ensuing consequences.

However, there are exceptions to every rule. In particular, if a bicycle or the load on it is wider than 1 m, it is not only permitted, but also directly ordered to move on the road and follow the rules of cycling on the roadway. In addition, driving in organized convoys is allowed there:

- in one row - as a general rule.

- in pairs - if each of the vehicles is already 75 cm.

- in this case, you need to move in a column in groups of 10, or 10 in pairs. There must be a distance of at least 80 m between each group so that passing cars can easily overtake cyclists.

It is always allowed to move on sidewalks if an adult cyclist accompanies a child on a bicycle under 7 years old, or carries him on a regular additional seat or in a trailer (bicycle stroller). In this case, the question of which side the cyclist should ride on is resolved in the same way as when driving on the roadway: you need to move along the right sidewalk.

Prohibitions for cyclists

Like any other road user, bicycle riders have their limitations. The following cyclist rules have been established that prohibit:

— ride “hands-free.” Even when giving signals, you must hold the steering wheel with your other hand;

- carry oversized cargo that protrudes beyond the edge of the bicycle by more than 50 cm;

- transport cargo that interferes with driving a bicycle (for example, placed or loaded on the handlebars);

— turn left on roads where there are more than two lanes in one direction, or where there are tram tracks;

— tow or ride in tow (only transportation of special bicycle trailers is allowed).

- drive on highways.

In addition to general prohibitions that apply to all bicycle drivers, there are also specific ones that apply to individual situations. Let's take a closer look at them.

New rules for pedestrian crossings

The question of how a cyclist should behave on a zebra crossing is decided by the traffic rules unambiguously: he is prohibited from crossing the road using a pedestrian crossing. If necessary, the bicycle driver must dismount and move along the zebra crossing like a normal pedestrian while driving his car. This is a new norm: previously it was not prohibited to drive on crossings.

But how should a cyclist ride along the road if it is crossed by a crossing? Here the same rules are established for him as for drivers of all other vehicles: he can drive through the crossing without dismounting - but only across the zebra crossing.

Restrictions for children

Not only adults, but also children can ride bicycles. Therefore, traffic rules establish special rules for them:

- children under 7 years old can only drive in areas intended for pedestrians;

- children under 14 years old - in the same place, plus also on bicycle paths. They are prohibited from entering the roadway.

After 14 years, restrictions are lifted, and you can drive wherever traffic rules allow.

Interestingly, with a literal interpretation of the Rules in force until 2014, only those over 14 years old could ride bicycles. The traffic rules were not specified on what to do with numerous children on bikes, but formally they (or rather, their parents) could be fined for violation at any time.

Relations with pedestrians

When moving on roads or sidewalks, cyclists are required to give way to pedestrians. In all cases when a bicycle interferes with them, the driver must dismount and drive his vehicle with his hands.

At a crossing, if there is no traffic light, a cyclist must give way to a pedestrian. If there is a traffic light, then he must make sure that pedestrians have finished crossing the road, and only then can he continue moving.

Reminder when transporting passengers

How many people can ride on one bike? Although a bicycle is a vehicle, usually only the driver himself can ride it. Exceptions are situations when:

— there are standard seats for passengers provided by the manufacturer;

- there is a trailer or stroller, again structurally designed to be towed by a bicycle.

Transporting people on a frame or trunk is strictly prohibited.

Signage system on the road

In cases where a separate lane is allocated for bicycles, special markings are used. In particular, the bicycle path must be fenced off from the lane for motor vehicles with a continuous line: this means that neither drivers of cars or motorcycles can enter there, nor cyclists have the right to enter the roadway. In addition, a bicycle path is indicated either by a special road sign or by a bicycle symbol painted on the asphalt.

Moreover, if there is a “Motorway” sign on the road (sign 5.1 according to traffic rules), then any movement of bicycles is prohibited. From a formal point of view, the restriction applies only to vehicles that are not capable of reaching a speed of more than 40 km/h, but bicycles are directly mentioned in the Rules. Cyclists on highways can only ride on the shoulders.

Separately, you need to consider what kind of lighting devices can be installed on a bicycle. Unlike cars, the installation of headlights, headlights or other devices not provided by standard does not need to be coordinated - the owner decides what he needs, buys it himself and installs the necessary lighting devices if necessary.

However, in order not to violate traffic regulations, it is best to install the following on your bicycle:

Headlight. Replacing it with a headlamp on a bike helmet is highly not recommended.

Red marker for the trunk or rear fender.

The traffic rules also recommend that when driving at night, use reflectors or other reflective or reflective devices on the bicycle or the clothes of its owner. This requirement is not mandatory, but it does save the life of the cyclist.

Lighting devices can be powered either from a battery or from a “dynamo” - a small-sized electric generator. It is recommended to use battery-powered models: when stopped, the generators stop working and the headlights stop shining.

Changes to fines for cyclists

Since there are rules, there must be responsibility for breaking them. Currently, a cyclist can be fined:

- for traffic violations - 800 rubles;

- for driving while drunk - up to 1,500 rubles;

- for talking on a mobile phone (without a hands-free headset) while driving - up to 1,500 rubles.

In addition, bicycle drivers are also subject to rules prohibiting damage to road signs or polluting the road surface. However, it is not worth dwelling on them, since these violations are not common.

The most common traffic violations when riding a bicycle

Now let's see what violations are most often committed by bicycle owners. According to statistics, the most common offenses are:

Driving on pedestrian crossings. This suicidal practice is unfortunately common among Russian cyclists. You need to remember: neither a bicycle nor a car can brake sharply - and because of the speed, a cyclist is even more vulnerable than a pedestrian.

Driving without brakes. Braking systems make the bike heavier and interfere with rapid acceleration, so many people either dismantle them or do not install them (if the bike is not equipped with brakes as standard). However, this is also an option for suicide.

Interference with pedestrians. Riding on sidewalks is allowed in certain cases, but if a cyclist interferes with passers-by, he should not honk the bell, but dismount and drive his vehicle.

Causing harm to the health of a pedestrian. For this, a fine of 1 to 1.5 thousand rubles is provided.

We must remember: a cyclist is the same participant in the movement as the driver of a car or motorcycle. Therefore, he must comply with traffic rules to the fullest extent.

When can you ride a bicycle on the sidewalks and when not?

Nowadays, many people prefer to lead a healthy lifestyle. A great way to keep yourself in excellent physical shape is to ride a bike from time to time. But in order for the trip not to cause problems for anyone, you need to know all the rules for driving this vehicle.

In what cases is driving on the sidewalk allowed?

Riding a bicycle on the roadway can be dangerous nowadays. After all, the traffic there is too fast, and it is very difficult for cyclists to adapt to it. Therefore, it is very common to see people driving their vehicles on the sidewalk. However, it is currently prohibited to do this, and according to the new traffic rules, you can ride a bicycle only in certain cases.

First you need to decide what a sidewalk is. This is a part of the road where only pedestrians usually travel. It is located near the roadway. Modern pedestrian paths can be located in parks, public gardens, and near residential buildings. Riding a bicycle on the sidewalk or pedestrian paths is possible in cases where there are no:

designated bicycle zones;
equipped bicycle paths;
separate lanes for cyclists;
roadsides on which only pedestrians move.

In addition, you can ride a bicycle on the sidewalk:

all children from 7 to 14 years old;
adults who accompany children on bicycles under 14 years of age.

Everyone else should not drive onto the sidewalk.

What is the correct way to walk on footpaths?

First of all, the cyclist must take care of the serviceability of his vehicle. There shouldn't be any problems with him. Particular attention should be paid to the brakes. In addition, the classic model must certainly be complemented by reflectors, as well as lanterns used in the dark. As for the cyclist himself, he must perfectly understand all road signs.

A cyclist must ride on pedestrian paths without interfering with pedestrians or other cyclists. In case of group movement, cyclists are required to move one after another, maintaining a certain distance. The group should not exceed 10 people. You should not drive too fast so as not to accidentally harm pedestrians.

If necessary, the cyclist must get off the bicycle and continue to move like an ordinary pedestrian.

As for pedestrian crossings that are regulated, cyclists are required to obey traffic lights or traffic controllers. If there are unregulated crossings on their way, all cyclists must give way to the pedestrian. In addition, you need to give way to a person who is walking towards a stopped tram or bus.

You cannot turn around on a bicycle at pedestrian crossings. In this case, you need to dismount and cross the road like an ordinary pedestrian. However, you need to move not along the pedestrian crossing itself, but next to the zebra crossing.

When is driving on the sidewalk prohibited?

When a person rides a bicycle, he is a full participant in traffic.

Riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is strictly prohibited if cyclists are over 14 years old.
You cannot drive while holding onto another vehicle. This can harm both the cyclist and those moving nearby.
You only need to drive with your hands on the steering wheel and without taking your feet off the pedals. This is necessary so that a person can brake if necessary.
It is strictly prohibited to transport passengers in your vehicle unless there is a specially equipped place for this.
It is prohibited to tow bicycles or use other vehicles for this purpose.
You must also not use a trailer for towing that is not designed for this purpose.

Fines for violating the rules

Not only do car drivers dislike cyclists, the same applies to pedestrians. After all, for many, such transport only causes trouble. After all, not all cyclists are familiar with the traffic rules. Therefore, quite often the drivers of this light transport turn around in the wrong place or simply cross the zebra crossing at full speed. Some of them sometimes even run red lights.

In addition, cyclists and ordinary pedestrians interfere. They are afraid of their chaotic movements. However, it is worth noting that traffic regulations are becoming stricter every year, and fines are increasing. And this is absolutely fair. After all, the owner of any vehicle must be responsible for everything that happens on the roads. This also applies to cyclists, who must control themselves on the road.

Most often, modern cyclists violate the following rules:

drive their vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which is fraught with various consequences;
talking on the phone on a bicycle, which is strictly prohibited by traffic rules;
turn the vehicle to the left on tram lines, which is strictly prohibited;
crossing a pedestrian crossing on a bicycle, which is not allowed according to traffic regulations;
ignore various prohibitory signs, which can ultimately lead to unpleasant consequences.

For any of the above violations, the police officer has the right to fine the offending cyclist. It is worth familiarizing yourself in more detail with the fines for violations, which are described in the article of the Code of Administrative Offences.

Article 12.29 refers to a violation of traffic rules by a cyclist who is participating in the movement itself. The fine is 800 rubles.
The second part of this article talks about the fine, which is relevant in the case when a person is intoxicated. The fine can range from 1 to 1.5 thousand rubles.
Article 12.30 talks about violation of traffic rules, which further leads to the creation of obstacles on the road. In this case, a fine of 1 thousand rubles is possible.
In the case where a cyclist violated traffic rules, which subsequently led to a deterioration in a person’s health, he is obliged to pay a fine of 1.5 thousand rubles . In this case, the cyclist was either driving very fast or was intoxicated.

In addition, it is worth remembering that if the cyclist is able to pay the fine within 5 days after the violation, then its amount can be reduced by exactly half.

Compared to the fines issued to motorists, these fines are quite small. Therefore, many people simply ignore the rules, thereby provoking the emergence of all sorts of situations.

To summarize, we can say that even when riding a bicycle, a person must always be familiar with all existing rules. This will help you avoid unpleasant situations on the road. In addition, all this knowledge will help to fight back in the case when the cyclist is right and, perhaps, they are simply picking on him because of trifles.

See all the traffic rules for cyclists in the video below.

Can cyclists ride on sidewalks?

4 minutes Author: Andrey Smirnov 341

Summer is coming soon. You and your children will go rollerblading, scootering, and cycling. Every parent, before explaining to their child where he can ride according to traffic rules, must find out for himself whether it is possible to ride a bicycle on sidewalks or on the road.

Nowadays, laws change almost every day, and keeping up with them will take a lot of time. In this article I will tell you whether a cyclist can ride on sidewalks and where he generally has the right to ride.

Basic Concepts You Need to Know

Let's start with the key concepts to make it easier to understand the traffic rules.

The wording precisely says: “TC,” which means that all the rules that apply to cars also apply to bicycles.

If you are riding a bicycle, then you are a direct participant in the traffic and you are prohibited from riding on the sidewalk, and if you are walking next to a bicycle, then you are a pedestrian.

Where can you ride a bike?

Since 2014, there are six points where you can ride a bicycle:

You need to look from top to bottom, that is, if there is no bike path, then you should ride on the far right lane of the road. If you can’t drive there either, then you can drive along the side of the road, and if it is busy or not there, then you focus on the fourth point - the sidewalk!

Exceptions:

You can drive on the road if the width of the load is more than 100 cm;
If you are traveling in a group, you can drive along the road.

Since 2014, dedicated lanes for cyclists have been installed. And since 2015, cyclists have the right to ride in dedicated lanes on the road!

Traffic police officers are quite loyal to cyclists, but the law provides for fines for them too!

If you look closely at this wording, any violation committed by a cyclist should be punishable by a fine of 800 rubles. If he was not sober, then a fine of one thousand to one thousand five hundred rubles!

Fines for cyclists cannot be compared with fines for motorists. For the latter, driving while intoxicated is fifty thousand rubles!

Despite the fact that there are fines for cyclists, they are rarely fined in Russia.

Interesting case

This story happened to my friend. (The following is the story from his perspective)

One day I went on a bike trip with my friends. On the first day we planned to get to Ryazan. It is not far. We all already had a lot of experience in such events. I alone have ten years of experience in cycling tourism.

When we were not far from Voskresensk, a traffic cop stopped us and began to tell us that we had no right to drive on the highway. We begin to tell him that we are moving in a group, that we have every reason for this, but he claims that we still have to drive on the side of the road. In the end, we argued with him for about five minutes, then we realized that he just needed money. We chipped in and it turned out that the nine of us gave him five thousand rubles.

We continued the route, reached Ryazan, stopped there for a couple of days, drove around the city and drove further towards Ufa through Penza.

This is how it also happens that sometimes they stop me and just take my money, although my friends tried to tell him something, but the traffic cop didn’t want to listen to them.

Comments

Georgy May 23, 2017 — 11:07

then you are focusing on the fourth point - the sidewalk! It’s advice like this that causes cyclists to hit pedestrians in the back.

Georgy May 23, 2017 — 11:15

Bicycles, boards, skates, scooters and between them grandmothers and grandchildren with oohs and aahs.
Summer landscape on the sidewalks. They tear bags, cell phones, collide, get injured, get into fights. Old people with canes, a bicycle tripped over a cane, the old man is to blame. A cyclist pushes an old man, it leads to a fight. An older one on a bicycle runs over a younger one running, both suffered bruises. Mothers, forgetting about their children, fight for their children. Lovely.

Wanderer May 23, 2017 — 22:23

So why did they give money to this under-policeman? They humiliated themselves. They would send him far and for a long time. And he wouldn't do anything.

Max June 2, 2017 — 20:31

Personally, I’m completely shocked by what I read. They took pity on the traffic cop and chipped in. They gave him five. The sucker is fate. I wasn't there, I wish I had stopped us at all.

Dmitry June 6, 2017 — 15:55

But what to do with pedestrians who walk exactly in the middle of the sidewalk, neither to the right nor to the left, but like kings on a walk? And yet they don’t respond to the bike call at all? That is, they behave extremely illogically (some animals are smarter), I think such people need to be “taught”, since they themselves don’t guess.

Guest June 8, 2017 — 10:05

Well, there’s no need to punish. Not everyone can be quick-witted. They simply live in their own little world, in which everyone is obliged to them) that’s why they are people

JVBX November 7, 2017 — 11:50

Pedestrians have and should have rights on the sidewalk.
Otherwise, the baby who jumped out will be to blame for being run over. And those who run into conflict must go to the meeting, but dismounted.

Olga June 13, 2018 — 20:01

Sidewalk for pedestrians first! A cyclist is no longer a pedestrian, but a driver of a non-motorized vehicle. And, violating traffic rules with his passage, he must drive modestly on the side of the road or on the right side of the road. You have strange indignations. The impudence is rushing.

Love May 30, 2019 — 23:12

Animals are smarter than many cyclists. A bicycle is a vehicle. Let him scratch along the way. Sidewalk for pedestrians. But it turns out that old people, women with children and people with sore legs are obliged to give way to cyclists? Those cyclists who feel the urge to threaten those who have the right to walk safely on the sidewalk need to be taught, since they themselves don’t know! There is no need to ride bicycles where you can walk on sidewalks and use public transport.

Valery guest June 9, 2017 — 20:40

That is, I am driving in the right lane at a speed of 5-10 -150 km per hour (there is no speedometer). Let's say 5. There's a kilometer-long traffic jam behind me. And I'm driving according to the rules! Let's say I didn't go to the hospital, but got to the first guy. He slows me down and says, “You're a moron. You're driving slowly and you're already creating a 2-kilometer traffic jam. And he slaps me Art. 12.30 creating interference. Question: should I “fly” at a speed of at least 50 km per hour on the road. Or fly in principle?

Valery guest June 9, 2017 — 20:55

Yeah, I understand article 12.30 is generally for pedestrians. Why did you bring it?
I understood correctly, according to the rules, I can move in the right lane at any speed. And the drivers behind me can even crash. So cyclists have no limited power at all. You can stop all traffic in the country.) At least in the right lane!

Vasily July 20, 2017 — 23:01

It is necessary to provide in the traffic rules for adults to ride on the sidewalk, even if they are driving themselves and not accompanying a child cyclist, even if there is a road with a shoulder nearby (it can be dangerous with heavy traffic, and an adult cyclist is a person with a nervous disease in which there is a delayed reaction. I consider it unacceptable to prohibit such people from driving a bicycle, and it is also not necessary to prohibit them from riding on public roads - it is enough to simply give them the opportunity to choose, depending on their current state of health, where to go, for this it is enough to allow them to ride wherever it is allowed children under 14 years old). Or is it already provided?

It is also necessary to more clearly state in the traffic rules regarding electric scooters with a motor of 250W or less that this type of transport is equivalent to electric bicycles of similar power and does not require a driver’s license to operate. Also, simplify the procedure for checking such vehicles by traffic police officers, introduce new methods for checking engine power, so that you do not need to carry a registration certificate with you (which may not be available: it is not always available when buying a bicycle, or the bicycle was retrofitted with a home-made electric motor) and so that such problems do not arise. collisions on the part of traffic police. when drivers of such electric scooters are required, when driving, to have with them not only the registration certificate for the vehicle, but also their passport as a citizen of the Russian Federation (!) - like instead of a driver’s license, as in the video from Novosibirsk. On an ordinary bicycle, it seems that you don’t need to carry a registration certificate with you - if you suspect that the bicycle is stolen, the traffic police will check it by the number on the frame or something like that, and it seems that you are also not forced to carry (carry) identification documents - so why not extend the same reasonable attitude to drivers of electric bicycles and electric scooters (scooters) with a 250W motor or less

Prozozhy July 21, 2017 — 03:34

You can already drive on the sidewalks.

I hate September 14, 2017 — 10:37

My grandmother was hit by a teenage cyclist on the sidewalk and ran away, serious injury!! This is how you kill old people and children, sheep!! Driving on sidewalks should be banned.

Hmm October 19, 2017 — 08:07

If cyclists rode on the roads as prescribed by the rules, the accident rate among them would increase tenfold, and a lot of drivers would end up in jail. So where, one might ask, do you suggest cyclists ride if these traffic rules were drawn up by people suffering from imbecility, and there are no bike paths in the country at all?

Dmitry October 20, 2017 — 12:25

If you want to take your bike to the sidewalk, take it in your hands.
Sidewalks are for pedestrians, and they are complete masters there. And then they drive and honk some more! Drive around, crowed! PS: I ride often myself, but driving on the sidewalk is annoying. Even if there is no one. But it’s more infuriating when I’m walking and these “lisapetoons” come at me.

Vladimir October 28, 2017 — 18:01

The rules do not prohibit driving on the sidewalk. Is it so difficult to step aside and give way? You're probably blocking the entire sidewalk

Passer-by November 16, 2017 — 22:10

I come home from work with a heavy bag, and I still have to jump back and forth every time because of every bicycle fagot. You're a slacker, get off the road since you have plenty of time.

Guest April 16, 2018 — 14:41

If you don’t want bikes on the sidewalks, build bike paths since everything is so annoying

Guest July 2, 2018 — 16:25

Are cyclists themselves not interested in building paths? Should you build pedestrians? :)))) There are plenty of clubs, but there is no one to turn to legislators and administrators? We turn the pedals but have no brains? Or are you busy knocking people down on sidewalks and crosswalks? :)))

Alexander December 18, 2017 — 10:49

They allowed it, but in vain! Now the case of an accident is being analyzed. The driver was turning left, there were no pedestrians, he continued driving and then a cyclist flew out from behind an oncoming car and flew into the front fender, breaking his leg in the fall. Now they are trying to blame the driver, they say he had to miss. And what happened It’s already dark, the bike didn’t have a headlight, and the fact that it was crossing the roadway outside the intersection area is somehow hushed up! The most interesting thing is that if there was a pedestrian crossing there, the cyclist would definitely be at fault, but there isn’t one there!

Olga January 9, 2019 — 08:29

One evening I was walking with my grandchildren (twins, 5 years old) along the sidewalk near the park, a family was driving opposite, parents were in front, a daughter of about 9 years old was behind, she lost control and ran into my grandson and ran over him, my parents started yelling at me that We are walking on the sidewalk illegally! Why is it allowed to use the sidewalk as a bicycle route?

Fine for riding a bicycle on the sidewalk

Cyclists always appear on Russian roads as soon as the first warm weather arrives. And it’s good if they drive according to the rules, do not interfere with others and, even more so, do not cause harm to the health of other road users.

It is clear that a cyclist usually moves faster than any pedestrian. And from driving school, many should remember that a dangerous situation on the road is created when someone “stands out from the flow” - either moving slower than everyone else, or faster.

Rules for cyclists

It turns out that in our country there are special rules for such road users. More precisely, for their correct behavior on the road. But every driver and most pedestrians probably know this. But few people know that cyclists can also be subject to penalties. And it is more serious than the one imposed on pedestrians.

Today there are two types of punishment for those who like to ride bicycles:

fine for riding a bicycle on the sidewalk;
fine for riding a bicycle in a pedestrian crossing.

Fining a cyclist for riding on the sidewalk

Then the question arises: where then to ride a bicycle, if not on the sidewalk? Ideally, special sections of the road should be allocated for this two-wheeled vehicle. This norm is being widely implemented in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Other major cities are also represented.

But it is obvious that you cannot create special conditions for cycling on all streets. Then traffic rules imply driving along the edge of the roadway or shoulder - where it exists. Only as a last resort is it possible to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk: when there is no special lane, no shoulder, or along the edge of the road you cannot ride.

It turns out that in most situations you can’t drive on the sidewalk? It turns out that it is so. State Traffic Inspectorate employees have the right to punish such a cyclist.

Note! There are a number of exceptions that will allow cyclists to avoid fines in 2018:

if a child under 14 years of age is transported or accompanied by a bicycle;
if the cyclist himself is under 14 years of age;
if you roll a bicycle, walk, and not ride it, then the person is equated to a pedestrian.

What are the fines for cyclists in 2018?

The main document that regulates punishment is the Code of Administrative Offences. In particular, Article 12 states that traffic police officers can make the following types of decisions:

the fine for riding a bicycle at a pedestrian crossing or on the sidewalk where there is a special path, or possibly riding along the edge of the road or curb - 800* rubles;
for causing harm to the health of pedestrians - up to 1,500 rubles;
for driving while intoxicated - 1,500 rubles.

The resolution is issued on the spot by an authorized employee. If the cyclist does not agree with the decision, then he can appeal the fine in the general manner. To do this, you need to indicate your disagreement in the resolution. If you sign in it, then it will be almost impossible to prove that you are right.

To file a complaint, you can come to the traffic police in person or write a statement on the official website. The standard 10 days are provided for this from the date of the decision.

The case is then sent to court for consideration. It is advisable to have a good evidence base there: eyewitnesses, video recordings.

The reality is that it is very difficult to challenge the imposed fine. Therefore, if a decree has been issued, it is better not to ignore it, but to pay it. Moreover, if there is still some share of guilt. 2 months are given for payment, after which penalties are assessed and bailiffs are involved. For payment within two weeks after the decision is made, you can count on a 50% discount.

*Fine rates are current as of July 2018

Dangerous riding on the sidewalk - fines for cyclists

A bicycle is an excellent means of transportation according to many people.

With the help of a bicycle, you can move around the city quickly, cheaply and safely, without causing any harm to the environment, and in addition giving the body useful physical activity.

But cyclists have their own restrictions and responsibilities in the traffic rules, which, unfortunately, not everyone knows about. And therefore, you can observe quite frequent violations, for which the law imposes fines for cyclists.

Reasons and dimensions

The most common violations for cyclists are riding on sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. Most often, bicycle owners simply do not know that the Road Traffic Rules equate them with drivers, and consider themselves to some extent “accelerated pedestrians.”

A pedestrian crossing can become dangerous for anyone. But crossing it on a bicycle increases the likelihood of danger. Firstly, there is a chance of running into a pedestrian on the sidewalk, and secondly, the speed of a bicycle is less controllable, and if you need to stop in front of a car, it will be very difficult to do so - as a result, a collision may occur.

In the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation for cyclists (and part-time scooter riders) there is Article 12.29, the second part of which states that for violating traffic rules, the owner of a bicycle will be fined 800 rubles.

It doesn’t matter what exactly the violation was - the fine will be exactly that. But this is precisely the case if the violation did not lead to interference on the road or injuries in a collision.

In this case, Article 12.30 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation (parts 1 and 2) comes into force. Then, if they interfere with traffic, the cyclist will be fined one thousand rubles, and if they cause harm to anyone - from 1000 to 1500 rubles .

Article 12.30 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation. Violation of the “Rules” of the road by a pedestrian or other road user, resulting in interference with the movement of vehicles or causing minor or moderate harm to the health of the victim

Violation of the Traffic Rules by a pedestrian, a passenger of a vehicle or another road user (except for the driver of a vehicle), resulting in interference with the movement of vehicles, entails the imposition of an administrative fine in the amount of one thousand rubles.
Violation of the Traffic Rules by a pedestrian, a passenger of a vehicle or another road user (except for the driver of a vehicle), resulting through negligence in causing slight or moderate harm to the health of the victim, entails the imposition of an administrative fine in the amount of one thousand to one thousand five hundred rubles.

Traffic Laws

Before riding a bicycle, you should familiarize yourself with the traffic rules, since there are significantly fewer rules and prohibitions for cyclists than for motorists. And as a result, without violations, the likelihood of dangerous situations will be reduced to a minimum.

Where is it allowed to travel?

Paragraph 1 of Article 24 of the Traffic Rules states that the owner of a bicycle must move along bicycle/pedestrian paths, or along lanes for cyclists. In this case, the cyclist must be at least 14 years old. Driving on other elements of the road is prohibited, but there are exceptions to this section of the traffic rules.

In addition, the width of the vehicle (including cargo) should not be more than one meter . And if there are several cyclists, then they must ride in one column.

If, in addition, it is not possible to drive on the roadway, then the traffic rules allow driving on the side of the road, observing the same restrictions.

And last but not least, there is an exception that allows you to move on the sidewalk and pedestrian path . In this case, it should be impossible to drive along all the sections of the road described above (bicycle path, right side of the roadway, etc.).

And also if the owner of the bicycle accompanies a cyclist under seven years of age or transports him on a seat/in a bicycle stroller or in a trailer for cyclists.

As you can see, one exception leads to another, and there are quite a few cases for moving on the sidewalk when this is not a violation.

Responsibilities

In addition to the place of movement, a cyclist has other responsibilities in road traffic. In the traffic rules, a cyclist is equal to a driver and must follow the following rules:

The bicycle must signal before turning, stopping or starting to move. If the vehicle is not equipped with light signals, then the turn signal is given with the hand extended to the side - left or right. The signal is given before the turn, and at the beginning of the turn, the hand accordingly returns to the handlebars of the bicycle.
It is imperative to give way to pedestrians, slow down or stop before crossing. It is worth knowing that a cyclist himself will be considered a pedestrian only if he is walking the bicycle next to him. This is the only way to move a bicycle across a pedestrian crossing.
When crossing a bicycle path and a road, a cyclist must let all vehicles pass before passing.

Alcohol intoxication

However, there are also such “craftsmen”. But the very fact of intoxication while riding a bicycle is not a violation, but an aggravating circumstance for violations .

For traffic violations, the cyclist will pay a fine of 800 rubles, as stated in the second part of Article 12.29 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation, but the third part of this article states that if the violation was committed while exceeding the blood alcohol limit, the cyclist will be fined 1000 - 1500 rubles.

You can find out more about penalties for drunk riding on a bicycle here.

What is prohibited?

Paragraphs 24.8 and 24.9 of Article 24 of the Traffic Regulations describe all the prohibitions for cyclists (as well as for scooters):

The vehicle cannot be driven without holding it with your hands. On smooth, straight roads you can often see teenagers who have learned to ride without hands - a spectacular example of impairment.
A cyclist must not carry a load that protrudes from the sides by more than half a meter, or simply interferes with control.
It is prohibited to carry passenger(s) if this is not provided for by the structure of the bicycle. This is especially true for children under seven years of age.
If the road has several lanes or tram tracks, then it is prohibited to turn left or turn around.
Towing of other bicycles is prohibited.

Controversial situations

In practice, cyclists are fined quite rarely, because recording this offense is quite difficult. A cyclist, noticing an inspector, can quickly move off the sidewalk onto the roadway, and a cyclist can cross a pedestrian crossing in a matter of seconds. Without the necessary evidence, it will be difficult to justify a fine.

And of course, you can try to appeal any fine. A cyclist can file a complaint with the traffic police directly against the chief inspector who issued the fine.

And you can try to appeal the fine received in court. The violator is given ten days from the date of receipt of the fine to take these actions.

However, the possibility always exists and if there is evidence of innocence, the fine can be canceled. If, however, the court makes a contrary decision, then the violator will be given two months to pay the fine, and if the fine is not paid during this time, the fine will be collected by bailiffs forcibly.

How can a violation be proven?

Proving a cyclist's violation is quite difficult. For example, a bicycle does not have a license plate, making it much more difficult to identify the offender.

Photos or video materials can serve as evidence of a violation , but most often only violators who are caught in the act are fined.

In the event of a collision with a pedestrian, stronger evidence is used - the testimony of witnesses and the victim.

Conclusion

A bicycle is rightfully considered a participant in road traffic as a driver, not a pedestrian. And therefore he is prescribed certain restrictions and responsibilities in the Traffic Rules.

Of course, there are much fewer of them than for car owners, and for violating them they cannot be deprived of the right to drive a bicycle, for the absence of such in principle. But for any violation they can be fined in the amount of 800 rubles , and if the cyclist was also intoxicated, then up to one and a half thousand rubles.

The rules should be followed not only out of fear of a fine, but primarily guided by the safety of oneself and, of course, strangers, because suddenly lost health is much more valuable than the money spent on a fine.

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