Is it possible for a cyclist to ride on the road?

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.

How to ride correctly as a cyclist so as not to get a fine

15 May 2014 17:05 KP Belarus

How to ride correctly as a cyclist so as not to get a fine Photo: Victor DRACHEV

The bicycle boom in the Belarusian capital began several years ago. Of course, Minsk is not Copenhagen, but all cyclists in the world have one thing in common: the requirement to comply with the traffic rules of their countries

1. Can a cyclist ride on the road?

If there is no bike lane, the cyclist must ride on the sidewalk or pedestrian path without obstructing pedestrians.

If there are no bike paths, sidewalks or pedestrian zones nearby, you need to ride along the side of the road or along the edge of the roadway. BUT! Firstly, you can drive no further than one meter from the right edge of the roadway. You can drive further than one meter only to avoid obstacles and in permitted cases of turning left or making a U-turn. Secondly, if there is an asphalt shoulder on the road, separated from the main roadway by a solid white or yellow line, you need to drive without driving onto the line.

Photo: Ekaterina MARTINOVICH

2. At what age can you ride a bicycle on the roads?

In pedestrian and residential areas, on sidewalks, on bicycle or pedestrian paths, you can ride at any age. But you can only travel on the road unaccompanied by an adult from the age of 14.

Photo: Ekaterina MARTINOVICH

3. How to drive through intersections?

Riding a bicycle through a pedestrian crossing is prohibited. The cyclist must stop, get off the bike and roll it in his hands along the zebra crossing. Exception: “green bicycle crossings” - places marked with special green markings. These are already being made in Minsk.

But we must take into account that according to the rules, intersections are not places where a bicycle path crosses a road. You don’t have to get off your bike here, but you need to give way to all traffic that crosses the bike path.

Photo: Ekaterina MARTINOVICH

4. What should be on the bike

In the dark, as well as in conditions of poor visibility, for example in fog, according to the rules on a bicycle, a light with a white light should be on in front, and a red one on the back. The use of other light elements (reflective vests, reflectors, flickers, etc.) is not regulated by traffic regulations, but experienced cyclists are advised to have them. It's the same with helmets.

STAY IN TOUCH!

What a cyclist should not do

— Turn left or make a U-turn on roads that have more than one lane in each direction.

— Turn left or turn around on roads where there are trams.

— Transport passengers on a frame or trunk without a special seat.

- Drive in snow or ice.

— Carry cargo that protrudes more than half a meter beyond the dimensions, and cargo that interferes with the control of the bicycle.

— Pulling another bicycle on a rope (except for an industrial bicycle trailer).

— Ride faulty bicycles.

— Ride a bicycle “without arms” or “without legs”

ADVICE "KP"

“When moving on the sidewalk, stay close to the roadway”

Chairman of the Board of the Minsk Bicycle Society Evgeniy Khoruzhy shared his advice with Komsomolskaya Pravda readers.

1. If we are driving along the road and need to make a maneuver or go around an obstacle (for example, a parked car), we do this. First, we show with our hand that we are turning, hold our hand for a few seconds, look back and only then turn, making sure that the path is clear. When driving around parked cars, be careful - their doors may suddenly open.

2. The bell will help warn pedestrians of your arrival. If you do this in advance, it will be much easier to drive on the sidewalk - try it!

3. When crossing exits from yards, do not forget that visibility in these places is often limited, and some car drivers may be inattentive. Therefore, control the situation and slow down if you think that the driver may not notice you or simply not let you through.

4. When moving along the sidewalk, stay on the side closest to the roadway. This will make it safer for both you and pedestrians. This is a general rule for installing bike lanes because pedestrians often enter buildings along the street and cross the road in much fewer places.

5. If you are driving around an obstacle that blocks visibility, slow down and stay as far away from it as possible so as not to hit a pedestrian or cyclist coming around the corner. Also, don’t go around pedestrians too closely, so you won’t scare them and won’t collide if someone suddenly steps to the side.

AT THIS TIME Drunk bicycling will result in a $75 fine.

A cyclist is a full-fledged participant in road traffic. Therefore, responsibility for violations is the same as for car drivers.

For violating traffic rules, a cyclist can be punished with a fine of up to 450 thousand rubles. If the violating cyclist is drunk or high, or he refuses to be examined, the fine will range from 450 to 750 thousand rubles. But they cannot take the car away from a drunk cyclist, even if they catch him in this state several times: cyclists are not subject to the confiscation law.

If a cyclist’s violation (even if “sober”) resulted in the creation of an emergency situation, the fine is from 450 thousand to 1.2 million.

Well, if as a result of an accident property is damaged or the victim receives minor bodily injury, the fine can reach 3 million rubles. A cyclist who leaves the scene of an accident faces the same punishment.

WHAT ABOUT THEM?

In Europe you are punished for walking in a bike path

In all European countries, a bicycle has every right to be on the roadway,” Yevgeny Khoruzhy, chairman of the board of the Minsk Cycling Society, told Komsomolskaya Pravda. - Moreover, in many countries, riding a bicycle on the sidewalk is prohibited, and you can be fined a considerable amount for this. Belarus is the only country known to me where cyclists are actually equated with pedestrians, which leads to a large number of conflicts and controversial situations.

Some countries allow driving on sidewalks, while others allow left turns on a multi-lane road (this is a rather dangerous maneuver that requires appropriate infrastructure and driving culture for road users). Cyclists are often allowed to overtake stationary or slow-moving vehicles on the right side, using caution.

Pedestrians can enter the bike path only as a last resort - if it is not possible to walk on the sidewalk, if it is impossible to move on the sidewalk, being careful and not interfering with cyclists. In our country, unfortunately, pedestrians are not punished for being on the bike path.

BY THE WAY

According to Belarusian rules, electric bicycles are equal to mopeds, which means that an AM category license is needed. But the traffic regulations of European countries classify such vehicles as ordinary bicycles, however, subject to certain conditions.

In addition, the rules of most European countries provide signs that can be used to allow oncoming traffic of cyclists on one-way roads (a popular solution for the central streets of many cities).

Even more materials on the topic: “Belarus: Transport”

Cycling in the city: rules and recommendations

You bought a bicycle, but you only ride it in the park. Over time, other needs appear: many people want to ride a bicycle to work, others want to go on vacation on it. Before you start riding a bicycle around the city, it’s worth understanding where you can ride, as well as what conventional signs and rules exist.

Before you start riding your bike, you should check it carefully:

well inflated wheels;

Safety: rules for riding a bicycle

City streets are full of various types of transport and pedestrians; a cyclist should know how to interact with them and where to ride. There are three possible options:

Is it possible to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk?

Cyclists often ride on sidewalks because they are afraid of cars on the roads. A bicycle is a vehicle and it is prohibited to ride it on pedestrian paths. But there are exceptions to every rule: only children under 14 years old under adult supervision are allowed to ride on sidewalks, as well as an adult carrying a child under 7 years old in a bicycle seat.

If you do end up on a pedestrian path, contrary to the traffic rules, then move closer to the roadway, watch your speed, because many pedestrians are much more unpredictable than cars, and do not honk your horn demanding to give way.

If you are concerned about yourself and those around you, it is better to get off the bike and walk part of the way, holding your “two-wheeled friend” by the handlebars.

Cyclist on the road: traffic rules

On the road you are a cyclist-driver who, from the age of 14, has the right to be a full participant in road traffic.

To ride safely on the road, you need to know the traffic rules that affect you as a cyclist:

Move in the direction of the flow.

Signal to other road users.

Observe the requirements of road signs and traffic lights.

Slow down at intersections and exits from yards.

Give way to cars on the right when crossing an uncontrolled intersection.

At a zebra crossing, cross the road on foot.

Equip your bike with the following dimensions : white on the front and red on the back.

Try to avoid conflicts on the road, let pedestrians pass at zebra crossings and remain calm. When you drive onto and off the sidewalk, place the wheel at a right angle so that it does not slip and steer the bike to the side. Be careful on the road and predictable for the driver.

These are the basic rules to follow when driving on the road. But the safest option for cyclists is bike paths. City authorities actively support their creation within the city.

Cyclist signs

Cyclists must make their intentions known to other road users.

There are a number of generally accepted hand signals that should not be ignored:

Stop is a sign in the form of a raised hand.

Turn to the right - the right arm is extended parallel to the ground with an open palm, or the left arm is extended and bent at the elbow.

Turn to the left - the left arm is extended parallel to the ground with an open palm, or the right arm is extended and bent at the elbow.

If a group of cyclists is riding, they should also exchange information. The first sign is given by the leader, and the group members repeat it, warning the next participant in advance:

The hole on the right is the right hand lowered down.

The hole on the left is the left hand lowered down.

Signs must be given in advance so that motorists or group members have time to react to them.

Comfort on the road: is cycling clothing necessary or can you do without it?

Many people think: why spend money on cycling clothes if you can wear what you have at hand. The answer is simple: convenience, practicality and safety.

When creating special equipment for cycling, the conditions of its use are taken into account:

does not hinder movement when driving;

protects from wind and rain;

Cycling shorts have a special padding that softens the fit. The sweatshirts have a pocket at the back where you can put all sorts of small things and not have to take a backpack with you, for which your dry back will thank you. It also has bright inserts that make you more visible on the road at night.

The rules do not oblige cyclists to wear cycling clothing; this choice is purely individual. If you ride a bike often and for long periods of time, convenience is paramount.

Bicycle helmet

An important attribute of cycling equipment is a helmet . It is optional according to traffic regulations, but make the decision yourself based on your personal comfort criteria. Remember that safety is not achieved by wearing a helmet, but by reducing your speed when driving on roads. This accessory, hated by many cyclists, is an element of protection in case of a fall. But for children it is a mandatory attribute.

Is it possible to ride a bicycle in casual clothes?

You can feel comfortable on a bike in casual clothes, especially if you ride short distances. But in the dark and foggy weather, it is worth adding reflective elements to it or your backpack. And also don’t forget about the flashlights, which must be present on the bike.

In rainy weather, the following will come to your aid: a raincoat, special shoe covers and properly selected fenders for your bike. If the bike breaks down on the road or you get tired of riding, then you will be allowed on public transport with it without any problems. Place it so that it does not interfere with the entry and exit of passengers.

If you want to ride a bicycle to work, but your bosses forgot about taking a shower, the only way out of the situation is to arm yourself with a change of clothes and wet wipes. It is also worth protecting yourself from driving with a backpack on your back; place it on the trunk or basket. You don't need to drive very fast; plan enough time on the road to drive at a relaxed pace.

Bicycle theft protection

Of course, in order to completely protect yourself from the theft of a bicycle, it is better not to have one at all. But we are not looking for easy ways!

Where to park your bike

People always leave their bicycles unattended when they go about their business. But you need to do it wisely. Nowadays there are more and more bike racks, try to fasten your bike to them.

If there are no bike parking areas nearby, use sturdy railings or barriers. Avoid flimsy structures and don’t expect that no one will look at your bike in a crowded place.

How to attach a bike

If you often leave your bike unattended for long periods of time, invest in a U-shaped metal lock. It is heavier and shorter than a regular cable lock, but it cannot be broken with wire cutters, and it will take a long time to saw. This process takes too much time, so thieves prefer not to mess with such locks.

If you are using a cable lock or chain, wrap the frame several times and attach it to the parking bar. The tighter you make it, the harder it will be to bite through it.

For reliability, purchase several locks : use the U-shaped one to secure the frame and rear wheel to the parking space, and fasten the front wheel with a thick cable lock.

Remember that God protects those who are protected. Follow the traffic rules, respect other road users, and you will be happy!

Is it possible for a cyclist to ride on the road?

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.

How to ride correctly as a cyclist so as not to get a fine

There are more and more cyclists in Khabarovsk every year, but there are almost no special paths for two-wheeled vehicles. Therefore, citizens are forced to ride on sidewalks, along with pedestrians, or directly on the roads. Let's find out how to do it correctly.

A bicycle, like a car, is a vehicle, which means accidents involving two-wheelers are also classified as road accidents. In just 5 months of this year, 11 such incidents occurred in Khabarovsk. 11 people were injured, including five children. The most common violations, traffic inspectors say, are uncontrolled driving in courtyards and not dismounting when crossing a pedestrian crossing.

— Cyclists are required to follow the rules for crossing pedestrian crossings. Precisely the crossing, because crossing the zebra crossing is prohibited. For this violation, an administrative fine of 800 rubles is provided. In this case, the blame for the accident will lie entirely with the cyclist, since he violated the rules. This means that he will also have to pay for the damage caused to the car,” explained Alexander Baranov, propaganda inspector for the Khabarovsk State Traffic Safety Inspectorate.

Can a cyclist ride on the road?

Traffic regulations allow cyclists to ride on the sidewalk and on the road. In the first case, two-wheeled vehicles should not interfere with pedestrians. In the second, you can drive no further than one meter from the right edge of the roadway. Please note: if there is an asphalt shoulder on the road, separated from the main roadway by a solid white or yellow line, you need to drive without driving onto the line.

At what age can you ride a bicycle on the road?

The rules state that children from 14 years of age can drive on the road; in residential and pedestrian areas you can drive at any age.

“But parents should pay attention to the fact that our courtyards in Khabarovsk are sometimes as busy as the roads, so you shouldn’t leave a child riding a bicycle near the house unattended,” explains Alexander Baranov. — Almost half of all accidents occur in courtyards. By the way, in this case, parents face a fine of 500 rubles for neglecting their children.

How to pass intersections?

The most pressing issue for a cyclist is intersections. The rules prohibit crossing it on a two-wheeled friend. Be sure to dismount. But, according to the traffic police, not everyone does this, and in Khabarovsk there are often cases when accidents occur for this reason.

What should be on a bike

Flashlight with white light and red light at the back
Helmet and other protection on the cyclist

What a cyclist should not do on the road

Turn left or make a U-turn on roads that have more than one lane in each direction;
Turn left or turn around on roads where trams operate;
Transport passengers and cargo that protrude more than half a meter beyond the dimensions;
Drive in snow or ice;
Pulling another bike on a rope.

Cyclist signals

Stop - any hand up.

Turn or rearrange to the right - right arm to the side or left arm bent at the elbow.
Turn or rearrange to the left - left arm to the side or right arm bent at the elbow.

Fines for cyclists

Interfering with vehicles – 1000 rubles
Causing minor or moderate harm to the health of a pedestrian – 1000-1500 rubles
Pedestrian crossing – 800 rubles