Where should cyclists ride according to the rules?

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.

Traffic rules for cyclists

Everyone who moves along any section of the roadway bears their share of responsibility for safety. And it doesn’t matter what kind of vehicle he is driving: a cool car, a super-fast motorcycle, or pedaling a simple bicycle. There are different “rules of the road” for everyone.

What rules should cyclists ride by?

A cyclist is a full participant in the road traffic. But sometimes, compared to motorists, he finds himself in a deliberately losing position for one reason: often he does not even know his rights, responsibilities and rules that he must follow. And there are not so few of them. It’s not difficult to find them; they are all described in the brochure for driving school students and drivers.

And yes, cyclists are not required to pass exams for their impeccable knowledge. But, whatever one may say, a bicycle is also a vehicle. Accordingly, its driver bears exactly the same responsibility as those who drive other vehicles, from a truck to a horse-drawn cart.

Where to ride: on the roadway or on the sidewalk

Today there are several options for the “path” for cyclists. However, this does not mean that those who like to pedal will always have a large choice. Each road suggests only one answer to the question of where to go:

on a lane dedicated specifically for cyclists or on bicycle paths, which are not available in every city;
along the right edge of the roadway;
on the side of the road;
on the sidewalk.

These options are listed in order of preference. That is, if there is a special lane, you shouldn’t even look at the road for motorists. The side of the road becomes open to two-wheelers only when there is no sign of a “separate lane” and movement on the roadway is impossible: it is littered with snow or debris, crowded with cars, etc.

Accordingly, a cyclist has the right to move onto the sidewalk where pedestrians are scurrying about only occasionally, if there are no other options. Unfortunately, this rule is not always observed in Russia. Out of ignorance or deliberately, out of convenience, many cyclists prefer to ride on sidewalks, often creating not only obstacles for pedestrians, but also dangerous: hitting a pedestrian can result in serious injuries. In any accident that occurs on the sidewalk involving a pedestrian, by definition the cyclist will be to blame.

Can a cyclist ride on the roadway?

The existing “Rules of the Road” are quite friendly to cyclists. They do not need to obtain medical certificates, study or demonstrate their knowledge and skills to obtain a license. All you need to do is purchase a vehicle. Traffic regulations even allow people not to wear protective equipment. Although many of those who are seriously involved in the development of cycling urge not to neglect this measure.

And yet the law makes a number of requirements for fans of mechanical transport. The current “Rules...” allowed only those who:

has reached 14 years of age (children under this age “Rules...” are allowed to drive only on special paths or on the sidewalk);
is in adequate condition, that is, is not under the influence of alcohol, drugs or any other medications;
travels in a fully operational, prepared and tested vehicle;
equipped the bike with special headlights on the front and side lights on the rear. Their use is mandatory in the dark, in fog, in heavy rain, etc.

What exactly do traffic regulations say about cyclists?

Owners of this vehicle will especially benefit from taking a look at section 12 of this brochure. It contains rules written specifically for them.

According to them, such road users are obliged to:

Drive exclusively along the right edge of the roadway, trying to stay as close to the road border as possible. Cyclists should line up in a single row and not interfere with other road users;
Give signals:
● when turning left using the left turn signal, and in its absence, with the left hand extended upward or bent at an angle of 90 degrees and the right hand pointed upward;
● when turning right with the right turn signal, and in its absence, with the right hand extended upward or bent at an angle of 90 degrees and the left one pointed upward;
● when braking with your left or right hand extended upward.
Give way to pedestrians in accordance with the rules applicable to motorists. That is, give them the right of way at unregulated pedestrian crossings. On regulated ones, start moving only after the traffic light turns on and you can make sure that all pedestrians have managed to leave the crossing.

It is prohibited for a cyclist to be on the roadway

Every cyclist entering the roadway is prohibited from:

turn around or turn left if the road you are driving on has more than two lanes. In this case, the cyclist is obliged to reach the pedestrian crossing, get off his vehicle and, as a pedestrian, cross to the other side at the traffic light signal;
turn around or turn left on those roads where there are active tram tracks;
cross the road at a pedestrian crossing on a bicycle;
carry passengers if the design of the bicycle does not provide equipped seats for them. Children under 7 years old are allowed to be transported only in special devices;
transport a large load that will protrude beyond the dimensions of the bicycle itself by more than 50 cm on any side, in length or width, as well as load that can interfere with the control of the vehicle.

If a cyclist does not follow the rules, he will have to pay a fine. A representative of the traffic police has the right to write it out.

Traffic rules for cyclists in 2019.

Hello everyone, today we would like to talk about the innovations that have been introduced to the traffic rules.

Let's start with the most basic. What does the concept of bicycle include?

A bicycle is a vehicle that has at least two wheels and is usually propelled by the muscular energy of the people on the vehicle, in particular by means of pedals or handles. Or it may have an electric motor with a power not exceeding 250 W. This is exactly the interpretation given in the traffic rules, which applies even to small children.

There is also the concept of a pedestrian in the traffic rules. Pedestrian is a person who is outside a vehicle on the road or on a pedestrian or bicycle path and does not work on them. Based on this, if you are walking and rolling a bicycle nearby, you are a pedestrian. And when you sit on a bicycle, you are driving a highly dangerous vehicle. And the new traffic rules apply to you.

Alcohol intoxication of a cyclist.

Traffic regulations clause 2.7 prohibits persons under the influence of alcohol from driving a bicycle, as well as transferring control to persons under the influence of alcohol.

In other words, you won’t be able to ride an iron horse while drunk. For such a violation you will face a fine of 1000 to 1500 rubles. However, they will not be able to deprive the rights, if any. Fortunately, you don’t yet need a driver’s license to drive a bicycle, so there are no grounds for deprivation.

Bicycle turn signals.

Clause 8.1 states that before starting to move, changing lanes, turning and stopping, the driver must give hand signals. If you are going to turn, then you need to extend the corresponding arm in the direction of the turn, or raise the opposite arm and bend it at the elbow 90 degrees.

In practice, drivers easily understand the outstretched arm in the direction of the turn. But a bent elbow can mislead other road users. Turn signals must be given well in advance and your hand must be returned to the steering wheel immediately before the maneuver begins.

By the way, many cyclists feel very comfortable in traffic and position themselves as full participants in the movement.

Technical condition of the bicycle.

Based on paragraph 2.3.1 of the traffic rules, it is prohibited to drive if the brake system, steering or lighting devices are faulty in the dark or in conditions of poor visibility. Therefore, if a bicycle does not have brakes or lights, its operation is prohibited. However, there is no penalty for this.

Where you can ride a bike.

Everything is much more complicated here. Let's start in order.

if there is a bike path or lane for cyclists, then we ride along it
if there is no bike path, then along the right edge of the roadway
if this is not possible, then on the side of the road
if there is not even a curb, then we drive on the sidewalk
if the sidewalk is very busy and it’s difficult to pass, then we walk and roll the bike next to it

Age for bicycle drivers.

These rules apply to all cyclists over 14 years of age. If the cyclist's age is from 7 to 14 years, then driving is allowed only on sidewalks and bicycle paths. Cyclists under 7 years of age are prohibited from traveling unaccompanied by an adult.

Dedicated lanes for cyclists.

In 2019, you can see new signs on the roads that designate special lanes for cyclists.

Protective equipment for cyclists.

However, there is no talk about safety in the traffic rules! The use of a helmet and protection when riding a bicycle remains voluntary. Apparently, it is much more important to the guardians of the law that our bicycle has no play in the steering column than the safety of our heads.

That's all the innovations that affect cyclists in 2019. Thank you for reading this article to the end.

Like and write your opinion on this in the comments.

Traffic rules for cyclists

If you decide to ride a bicycle around the city, take the time to learn the basic rules of the road. At least someone should know them!

Author: Anastasia Romashkevich, velonation.net
Cover photo: Traffic.net

They say that cyclists don’t follow the rules and don’t read traffic regulations, so they need to be banned as soon as possible. Although if you observe some other participants in the movement, you suspect that they are the ones who are not familiar with the rules. In the last few years, several amendments have been made to the traffic rules, which specifically relate to bicycles. Someone might have missed them, but someone probably thinks that he already knows everything better than anyone else. One way or another, the only worthy argument in any dispute is exact knowledge of how everything really works. We've selected the most common statements about bicycles, compared them with current traffic regulations, and added tips that will help you comply with the law (or break it wisely).

WHAT THEY SAY A bicycle is a vehicle just like a car.

HOW IN REALITY In paragraph 1.2 it is stated that a bicycle is a “vehicle”, but there is not a word about its similarity with cars. A car, if we speak in terms of traffic rules, is a mechanical vehicle. Do you feel the difference? Some provisions of the rules apply to all types of vehicles (for example, the obligation to yield to pedestrians at crossings), but there are points that apply only to cars or only to bicycles.

Discussions about equality usually lead to the fact that cyclists should also get a license and pay road tax, and they should be fined to the fullest extent of the law. This, of course, is complete nonsense. Do cars often crush people to death in your city? What about bicycles? That's the same! A car is a highly dangerous vehicle. A bicycle - no, because it is lighter and slower. The impact of bicycles on the condition of the road surface is also minimal. At the same time, the cyclist himself is more vulnerable compared to those who travel inside a metal body. Therefore, in many countries, cyclists are considered as an intermediate link between pedestrians and cars. They are given legislative concessions, for example, they are allowed to drive on red lights, and they turn a blind eye to some minor violations.

WHAT THEY SAY Some people say that you can’t ride on the sidewalk, and others say that a bicycle has no place on the roadway. There are known cases of fines being imposed for both.

HOW TO REALLY The location of a bicycle on the road is regulated by clause 24.2. Memorize these numbers so you can throw them in the face of the next taxi driver, who will shout at you to immediately get off the roadway and onto the sidewalk. Brief summary of the point: if there is no cycling infrastructure on the street or it is impossible to use it, you are allowed to ride on the right edge of the roadway. If it is impossible to drive on the roadway, you must move along the side of the road. Riding on the sidewalk is a last resort when driving anywhere else is not possible.

True, many interpret this “impossible” broadly and to their advantage. They say it’s scary, it means it’s impossible. #velonation sent a request to the traffic police in this regard. The answer was as vague as the wording in the traffic rules itself: officials said that in each case the question of whether there was a violation is considered separately. So use your own judgment, but read the next point first.

WHAT THEY SAY If a cyclist on the sidewalk interferes with or creates a danger for pedestrians, he must get off the bicycle and roll it next to him.

HOW IT'S ACTUALLY That's right - see clause 24.6. Proponents of driving on the sidewalk will, of course, say that they completely agree with this and drive past pedestrians carefully and with all respect. Sometimes this is true, but sometimes a cyclist on the sidewalk resembles a dog breeder letting his beloved dog out into the yard without a collar with the words: “He doesn’t bite!” When driving out onto the sidewalk, remember not only about your own safety, but also that there are people for whom, for various reasons, the very presence of a bicycle on the sidewalk is already stressful and a hindrance.

WHAT THEY SAY You can walk on the sidewalk with children.

HOW IT IS REALLY possible and necessary - this is also discussed in paragraph 24.2. Children under 7 years of age, accompanying adults, as well as people carrying a child in a child seat must drive only on the sidewalk. It is prohibited to carry children without a special place on bicycles (see clause 24.8). From 7 to 14 years old you can also ride on bicycle paths.

WHAT THEY SAY In the bike lane at the Boulevard end, a cyclist will have to dismount every 50 meters. State Duma deputy Vyacheslav Lysakov spoke in this spirit last year.

HOW TO ACTUALLY Apparently , the deputy was prompted to this idea by signs with the image of a crossed-out bicycle. Well, Lysakov is not good at reading signs. A crossed-out bicycle marks the end of the bike path - then you ride a bicycle on a general basis, but there is no question of dismounting. The bicycle ban looks almost like a “brick” - a circle with a red border and a bicycle in the middle. There are plenty of such signs around Red Square. There is also a triangular sign with a bicycle and a red border; it warns drivers that they will encounter bicycle infrastructure ahead.

WHAT THEY SAY There is a debate on the Internet about whether a car driver should yield to cyclists going straight before turning right. And if it should, then under what conditions.

HOW IT ACTUALLY According to one version, you only need to yield if there is a bike path. This is a misconception, but it can still be understood - this is how it was written in the previous version of the traffic rules. It is more difficult to understand people who argue with the current version of clause 13.1. We quote: “When turning right or left, the driver is obliged to give way to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the roadway on which he is turning.” It seems that everything is clear. But no, someone insists that you should only yield to those who dismount and cross the street at the zebra crossing. Motorists generally really like it when cyclists dismount and turn back into pedestrians, but this has nothing to do with the rules.

In any case, the number of people who do not know or interpret the rule loosely is somewhat scary - there is no guarantee that you will actually be allowed through. The best thing you can do is stand in front of the cars at the intersection. So, firstly, you will be better visible. Secondly, the bicycle starts from a standstill a little faster than a car, and you will have a slight head start to quickly pass the intersection.

WHAT THEY SAY Pedestrians have become insolent, they must learn to respect cyclists and get off the bike paths.

HOW IT REALLY Pedestrians are no more impudent than cyclists riding on the sidewalk. Clause 4.1 allows them to walk on bicycle paths if it is impossible to walk on the sidewalk. As usual, there are no specifics in the rules; everyone interprets it as best they can.

WHAT THEY SAY You can ride a bicycle on dedicated public transport lanes.

HOW IN ACTUALITY Clause 18.2 was introduced into the traffic rules in 2015, and not everyone knows about it, but it is really possible to drive on dedicated roads. Dedicated lanes are far from real bike paths, but it’s still better than riding in traffic with cars. It is easy to recognize the allocated lane - it has a marking in the form of the letter A (obviously, from the word bus), as well as a sign with a pictogram in the shape of a bus and another sign indicating the operating mode. On weekends and holidays, priority for public transport and bicycles usually does not apply; cars can use allocated lanes.

WHAT THEY SAY Bicycles must have lights.

HOW TO ACTUALLY It’s not enough to attach headlights to your bike, you must remember to turn them on “in the dark and in conditions of poor visibility, regardless of the road lighting, as well as in tunnels” - as required by clause 19.1. Insufficient visibility occurs, for example, during rain. A person who rides a bicycle in the dark without lights turns invisible and becomes dangerous to himself and others. The easiest way to make sure you don't miss is to install dynamo lights like those used on rental bikes. They turn on automatically and stay lit the entire time you pedal. The front light should be white and the rear light red. This is important, otherwise you will mislead other road users.

It seems that everything is simple, but there is one catch in the form of clause 19.5, which requires that low beam headlights and daytime running lights be turned on on all vehicles during the day. Presumably, they simply forgot to edit this paragraph after separate requirements for bicycles were added to the traffic rules, so it can be ignored.

WHAT THEY SAY You cannot ride a bicycle without a helmet and reflective elements on your clothing. Rumor has it that there have been situations where cyclists have been fined for not wearing a helmet.

HOW TO REALLY Wear a helmet or not is your choice. There is not a word about helmets in the rules, and clause 24.10 only recommends, but does not in any way oblige cyclists to wear reflective elements at night - no matter what drivers dying of idleness in a traffic jam shout at you about this. In response, you can advise them to brush up on the traffic rules at their leisure - it obviously won’t hurt.

Read also:
Zebra hunting. Speaking of crime and punishment, it is important to first take all possible preventive measures, and only then punish the violators.

WHAT THEY SAY Cyclists must dismount at zebra crossings.

HOW IT REALLY IS A free paraphrase of one of the provisions of clause 24.8. The exact wording is: “Cyclists are prohibited from crossing the road at pedestrian crossings.” This is one of the most controversial innovations in traffic rules. If you faithfully follow this rule on a street with a lot of intersections, cycling turns into a nightmare. On the other hand, supporters of dismounting say that a motorist may not notice a bicycle rushing along a zebra crossing and will not have time to brake in time.

It must be borne in mind that clause 24.8 applies primarily to those who ride a bicycle on the sidewalk - you can pass the intersection along the roadway in the general flow, without any dismounting. Driving recklessly on sidewalks is a very bad idea anyway. Especially at intersections. From a #velonation point of view, you are complying with the spirit of the law if you slow down to walking speed when approaching a zebra crossing. But keep in mind that in the eyes of opponents of cycling, you will still remain a persistent offender and living proof that bicycles should not be allowed beyond parks. And in the event of an accident, you will be to blame.

WHAT THEY SAY Cyclists should signal their maneuvers using gestures.

HOW IS IT REALLY Well, how else? Motorists have special headlights for this, cyclists do not have such headlights, so paragraph 8.2 requires you to signal with your hands. There are two ways to inform others about your intention to turn - they are in the picture. The sign must be given before the maneuver begins, and stopped immediately after or even during the execution (make turns more securely by holding the steering wheel with both hands). If you want to stop, raise your left hand up. It's very simple. It is necessary to give hand signals, including when riding on bicycle paths. People cycling behind you need to be aware of your plans.

Clause 8.2 is one of the most important, along with the requirement to attach headlights to the bicycle. Following these two rules will make you a predictable and visible road user. If the energy that is spent on talking about dismounting was invested in promoting lanterns and hand signs, there would be more order on the roads.

WHAT THEY SAY You can't turn left on a bicycle.

HOW TO ACTUALLY This is almost a true statement - paragraph 24.8 states that bicycles cannot “turn left or turn around on roads with tram traffic and on roads with more than one lane for traffic in a given direction.” The rule was adopted for safety reasons - changing to the left in traffic can be really risky. In some countries, this problem is solved with the help of bicycle traffic lights, bicycle boxes, and so on. Our traffic regulations are still dealing with dangers mostly through prohibitive measures. So for now, it is completely legal to turn left only by dismounting and moving along the pedestrian crossing.

This material does not list all the rules related to bicycles. You can't go wrong if you read the traffic rules in their entirety - it's not long or difficult. You can find the current version by following the link. When leaving home on a bicycle, be attentive and polite to others. The traffic rules do not say anything about this, but this is one of the most important rules.

Traffic rules and fines for cyclists in questions and answers

Traffic rules for bicycles

Cyclists are full road users from the point of view that they have their own rights (and responsibilities) that give them the use of roads and sidewalks in certain cases. However, traffic rules are often a rather ambiguous legal act, sometimes contradictory. Therefore, let's look at traffic rules and fines for cyclists from a practical (law enforcement) point of view in a question and answer format!

Is a bicycle a vehicle?

Yes. By the very definition of a bicycle, it is a vehicle. But it should not be confused with mechanical vehicles. The latter is driven by a motor.

But it's not that simple. And the bicycle can also move due to the motor. But in order for it not to fall under the definition of mechanical vehicles, but to remain in the proud title of “Bicycle”, the engine on it, according to the 2019 traffic regulations, must meet 3 criteria:

it should only be an electric motor,
its power should be no more than 0.25 kW (

0.34 hp),

it should automatically turn off at speeds of 25 km/h or more.

A cyclist is also a driver. This status is given to him by the definition of a driver - any person driving a vehicle.

Where can you ride?

This is a rather complex and conditional subtlety. The fact is that according to the Rules, as many as 7 different formal traffic zones are allowed for cyclists, depending on age and the organization of traffic in a given area.

Therefore, first we suggest that you find out where you can travel specifically in your case by interactively answering a few simple questions.

Where can I ride? Quick test

Let's now look at where you can ride a bike depending on your age.

Over 14 years old

On bicycle paths and bicycle pedestrian paths or a lane for cyclists of your choice in any cases, if any,
on the right side of the road:
- if the above zones do not exist or for one or another (objective) reasons it is impossible to travel through them,
- if the width of your bicycle is more than 1 m (including with cargo),
- if you are riding in a bicycle convoy,
on the side of the road, if there are no special paths or lanes for cyclists, and it is impossible or impossible to drive along the right edge of the roadway (note that the side of the road is not a roadway); at the same time, you must not interfere with pedestrians (they have priority on the side of the road),
on the sidewalk or pedestrian area, if all of the above is absent or there is no possibility to drive on them - that is, in fact, this paragraph allows you to drive through pedestrian parks, alleys, etc.; or if you are transporting a child under 7 years old or riding with a cyclist under 14 years old (clause 24.2 of the Rules).

The lane for cyclists is separated from the rest of the road by a solid line and is marked as follows:

And/or with a sign like this:

From 7 to 14 years

Along the bike paths
along bicycle and pedestrian paths,
on the sidewalk,
along the pedestrian path,
along the pedestrian zone.

Any of the above is your choice.

Under 7 years old

Along bicycle and pedestrian paths,
on the sidewalk,
along the pedestrian zone.

Any of the above.

Where should I dismount?

There are a number of areas where you are required to dismount, but they are few:

while crossing a pedestrian crossing, if you expect that drivers will be obliged to give way to you (they are obliged to give way only to pedestrians (Section 24.8 of the Traffic Regulations), and in the event of an accident the blame will fall on you),
in pedestrian areas (in parks), on pedestrian paths, sidewalks or the side of the road, unless you interfere with pedestrians or they are in danger (clause 24.6 of the traffic rules).

How far away should car drivers stay from me?

On safe. Alas, clear boundaries of the 2019 traffic rules are not regulated either with respect to the lateral interval or with respect to the distance.

Previously, there was an attempt to develop a new law to introduce a clause into the Rules that would oblige drivers to keep a lateral distance of 1 meter from the cyclist, but it was not adopted.

Today, the safety of the distance and interval is precedented - that is, until an accident occurs, the distances are considered safe.

Is it possible to drive in a bus lane?

You can. The very description of road sign 5.11 allows cyclists to move on it:

5.14 “Lane for route vehicles.” A specially designated lane in which route vehicles, cyclists , as well as school buses and vehicles used as passenger taxis move in the same direction as the general flow of vehicles .

Should I give way to cars turning right?

According to traffic rules, you are required to drive on the right edge of the roadway in most traffic situations. That is, to be to the right of all cars. But many cyclists have more than once encountered a situation where from the right lane only turn right (for cars), but you need to go straight.

When turning right, traffic rules clearly require car drivers to give way to cyclists who are on their right and moving straight ahead.

13.1. When turning right or left, the driver must give way to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the roadway onto which he is turning.

Do pedestrians have the right to walk on bike paths?

In short, it is the same right as cyclists, according to traffic regulations, have the right to ride on sidewalks. If there are no sidewalks or other areas for pedestrians in a given area or it is impossible to move along them, then pedestrians have the right to walk on the bike path. Moreover, they can walk at least the entire width of several people, but they have no obligation not to interfere with cyclists, alas.

If there are no sidewalks, pedestrian paths, bicycle paths or shoulders, and also if it is impossible to move along them, pedestrians can move along a bicycle path or walk in one row along the edge of the roadway (on roads with a dividing strip - along the outer edge of the roadway).

What does it mean if you can’t move on the sidewalk? The lack of opportunity must be objective. Just a bad or dirty surface, for example, does not make it impossible to move on it, although it does make it difficult. “ There are too many people there ” is also not a reason to occupy a bike path.

Should I wear a reflective vest and when?

Obliged. Reflective vests or capes have already created a lot of buzz since their introduction on March 18, 2018. But few people thought that cyclists are no exception to the Rules.

The obligation to wear vests is imposed by clause 2.3.4 of the traffic rules, and it applies to drivers of all vehicles, and not just mechanical ones - that is, cars.

In addition, paragraph 24.10 recommends that cyclists, when riding in the dark, in rain or fog, install or wear something with reflective elements.

Thus, cyclists are required, in the event of a forced stop or in an accident, while on the roadway or on the side of the road at night outside a populated area, to wear reflective clothing in accordance with GOST.

If you don't have a vest with you

As you can see, the loophole is simple: just leave the road and stand to the side. Please note that you also need to get off the side of the road.

Should I use lights?

Yes. According to clause 19.1 of the traffic rules, a bicycle must have a flashlight or headlight, which must be turned on in the dark or in conditions of poor visibility. Please note that poor visibility includes fog and rain.

During daylight hours, the bicycle must in any case have:

white flashlight or reflector,
at the back there is a red reflector or flashlight,
on both sides of the bicycle there are red or orange reflectors.

There is a penalty for their absence.

What are the fines for cyclists?

There are only two of them. Cyclists cannot be held accountable under the Code of Administrative Offenses in the same way as drivers. And there are 2 reasons for this:

the fact is that the Code of Administrative Offenses differs from the Traffic Regulations in the understanding of vehicles - the first provides under this concept only motor vehicles with an engine of much greater power than 0.25 kW - that is, a bicycle according to the Code of Administrative Offenses is not a vehicle, only according to the Traffic Rules;
It is for the first reason that there is a private article for cyclists of the Code of Administrative Offenses and only 2 parts in it: one (Part 2 of Article 12.29) provides for a fine of 800 rubles for any violation of the Rules by a cyclist; the second - part 3 of the same article - a fine of 1,500 rubles for any violation committed while intoxicated.

The specificity of these articles means that even if you are caught in a violation for which you can be charged under an article with a larger fine, one of the above articles must still be applied, since they apply specifically to cyclists.

Is it possible to drive drunk?

No. This is prohibited for all drivers, regardless of status - cyclist or car driver. This is a violation of paragraph 2.7 of the traffic rules:

2.7. The driver is prohibited from driving a vehicle while intoxicated (alcohol, drugs or other), under the influence of medications that impair reaction and attention, in a sick or tired state that jeopardizes traffic safety.

According to all current standards of 2019, the traffic police inspector is obliged to punish a drunken cyclist, as well as conduct an examination, as well as drivers of mechanical vehicles, since the state of intoxication must be established.

Can a drunk cyclist's driving license be revoked?

No. We have already indicated above that cyclists are subject to special articles of the Administrative Code with corresponding fines. Therefore, for driving while drunk, a cyclist can be charged under Part 3 of Article 12.29 for 1,500 rubles, but cannot be deprived of the right to drive.

Moreover, while on a bicycle, you are not required to transfer your license to a traffic police officer at all. By the way, about the cyclist’s communication with the traffic police.

Stopped by a traffic police inspector - what are my rights?

You have similar rights and responsibilities as motorists. You can also request to present your official ID if the inspector contacts you (clause 45 of the regulations).

But you yourself are not obligated to submit practically anything for verification. Alas, this is true (and this is a big minus). Licenses and other typical automobile documents must be submitted for verification only to drivers of mechanical vehicles (clause 2.1.1 of the traffic rules). But the inspector can check the civil passport of a cyclist as a citizen, and only if the first one commits a traffic violation or to attract him as a witness or witness (clause 107 of the Administrative Regulations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs).

By the way, the reasons for stopping and checking documents are the same as for motorists.