Which side of the sidewalk should a pedestrian walk on?
Which side of the sidewalk should a pedestrian walk on?
Just like drivers of any type of self-propelled vehicles, pedestrians are considered full road participants (RD).
It doesn’t matter whether a person has his own car or motorcycle, for example, he needs not only to know which side of the road a pedestrian should walk on, but also to familiarize himself with information about what rules pedestrians should follow on the roads.
Pedestrians’ ignorance of traffic rules (traffic rules) poses a great danger to both their own lives and those around them.
Based on the 2019 traffic rules, a driver is any person who independently drives a self-propelled vehicle or teaches another person to drive one.
Persons moving on roads without any vehicles are called pedestrians.
Pedestrians also include people in wheelchairs, but only if they are not equipped with special engines, and people driving a motorcycle or bicycle along the side of the road.
While a person is driving a vehicle in his hands, he is not considered a driver, but when he starts driving it, he is forced to adhere to the rules intended for drivers.
Pedestrians and drivers are equal participants in traffic on the roads, and in order to prevent accidents, each of them must clearly understand what rules should be followed.
Which side of the sidewalk should a pedestrian walk on?
To ensure the safety of pedestrians, roads are equipped with specially designated areas, such as sidewalks or pedestrian paths. On roads without sidewalks, pedestrians are allowed to walk along the side of the road.
Also, if there is no sidewalk, the pedestrian is allowed to walk on the bike path. Only people in wheelchairs or those carrying bulky loads may move along the edge of the roadway.
Pedestrians are prohibited from moving in the middle of the road, as well as next to the median strip . This is not only regarded as a violation of traffic rules, but poses a great danger to the health and life of the person himself.
A person walking on the side of the road must move in the direction opposite to the movement of cars . But when a pedestrian is holding another vehicle, such as a scooter or motorcycle, he must move in the same direction as the drivers.
When moving along the sidewalk, a pedestrian must stay on the right side, that is, move in the direction of vehicle traffic.
Pedestrian movement along the roadway
Any moving person sooner or later needs to cross the road, and the safest area for this is a specially equipped crossing, which can be either above ground or underground.
When there is no pedestrian crossing on the road, crossing should be done at the intersection, but keeping to the line of the sidewalk or shoulder.
In the case where there are no crossings or intersections nearby, pedestrians are allowed to move along the roadway in order to cross it, but only in an area that is clearly visible in both directions and at an angle of 90° relative to the divided line on the roadway.
On sections of the road with regulated traffic, traffic lights or traffic controllers indicate places for crossing the road.
When crossing the roadway in an unregulated area, a person must make sure that the crossing is safe and that there are no possible obstacles that could harm him or others.
It is prohibited to linger when crossing the roadway, since when stopping in the middle of the road a person creates an obstacle to other road users.
In the event that for some reason it was not possible to cross the road on time, for example, the traffic light turned red, the person must stop exactly on the divided line and wait for the next signal allowing his movement.
It is strictly forbidden to cross the roadway while a special vehicle is approaching, which includes police vehicles, medical aid vehicles and fire equipment.
What is prohibited for pedestrians?
To prevent a possible accident, the movement of a pedestrian is limited to the following nuances:
- It is prohibited to run out onto the road surface;
- You cannot cross the road in places not intended for this purpose when a car is approaching, regardless of its speed;
- It is prohibited to enter the roadway due to some obstacle that blocks the visibility of the pedestrian for drivers.
It is worth noting that drivers are obliged to give way to pedestrians only if they cross the road in a specially designated area - a crossing. Otherwise, the pedestrian is forced to wait for a safe moment, then cross the roadway.
Irrational actions of pedestrians often lead to car accidents, and a pedestrian in this position is the most vulnerable traffic participant.
Pedestrians are not allowed to travel on the highway, as well as the movement of pets, mopeds, bicycles and other self-propelled vehicles whose speed does not exceed 40 km/h.
Pedestrian rights
A pedestrian is considered a full participant in the road traffic, having his own rights.
If a conflict situation arises between a pedestrian and a traffic police officer, he has the following rights:
- do not adhere to the opinion of traffic police officers;
- defend your own position, confirming this in the protocol;
- do not put your signature on the protocol for your own reasons;
- file a complaint against traffic police officers to higher authorities, etc.
Compared to drivers, pedestrians are much more vulnerable, and in the event of an accident, the driver may not be harmed, but for the pedestrian the consequences are often dire.
Based on the fact that pedestrians are the same road users as drivers, their traffic violations are also subject to certain sanctions:
- crossing the road at a red traffic light or in an unauthorized place is punishable by a fine of 500 rubles;
- if, while crossing in the wrong place, a pedestrian becomes an obstacle for other road users - the fine is 1000 rubles;
- in case of unlawful actions of a pedestrian, which caused a traffic accident with minor injuries to other road users, he must pay a fine of 1,500 rubles.
A pedestrian should be interested in maintaining his health and life in general. Knowing the traffic rules for pedestrians, you can not only increase your own level of safety, but also prevent very serious consequences.
Which side of the roadway should a pedestrian walk on according to traffic rules?
Traffic rules apply not only to vehicle drivers, but also to other road users, including pedestrians. Citizens have the right to move on specially designated sidewalks, and in their absence, on the roadway. In this case, it is important which side of the road a pedestrian should walk on according to traffic rules.
Ignoring the rule about choosing which direction to drive on can lead to additional safety risks. It was to reduce the risk of accidents that the requirement on the side of movement for people without transport was introduced. A person on foot can also be brought to administrative responsibility along with other road users.
Who is a pedestrian according to traffic regulations?
Traffic rules contain the rights and responsibilities of pedestrians. The definition of the concept is specified in paragraph 1.2 of the Traffic Regulations, among other terms.
Thus, the concept of pedestrian is understood as an individual who participates in movement and is a full member of the road traffic without the use of mechanical transport.
- persons who move on foot, without using any additional means of transportation;
- citizens using a wheelchair;
- moving with the help of rollers, skis or other sports equipment;
- having a bicycle or other vehicle that rolls nearby.
The legislator also introduced some concepts that directly relate to this category:
- A pedestrian path is a specially designated section of the road on which pedestrians can only move independently, without the use of vehicles. There is also a bicycle and pedestrian path on which you can also drive vehicles, such as bicycles, roller skates, and so on.
- The pedestrian zone is a separate area that is specially allocated for citizens. It differs from a path in that it is a wider area for pedestrians, in which you can only move independently.
- A pedestrian crossing is an area marked with special markings and a sign that is used for individuals to cross the road. That is, this is a special zone through which you can cross from one side of the road to the other.
The responsibilities of pedestrians are separately specified in the text of the traffic rules (Chapter 4). The main points include:
It turns out that a person must move, ensuring maximum visibility. If it is possible not to go out onto the roadway, then he should not do so.
Rules for pedestrian movement on the roadway
If there is such a possibility, the pedestrian must walk along the sidewalk, pedestrian zone or other area intended for pedestrian movement (clause 4.1 of the traffic rules). However, this is not always possible to realize. In some places there are simply no special parts where a person could walk without interfering with other people on the road, but the need to move along this particular trajectory may remain.
Traffic regulations also take this point into account, introducing rules for movement specifically on the roadway, that is, where cars and other mechanical vehicles usually drive:
A person undoubtedly has the right to walk along the road, but the main requirement is that he does not interfere with passing cars through his actions. The current restrictions are in place to ensure maximum safety.
Pedestrian traffic at night
The main goal of traffic rules is to establish rules that would ensure maximum safety for each participant. Driving at night is a special issue, since in conditions of reduced visibility the likelihood of accidents increases significantly.
With good street lighting, this problem is not so acute. But it is not always available even within populated areas, not to mention other territories.
In paragraph 4.1 of the traffic rules there are special provisions regarding the side of the road and requirements for people who go out onto the roadway at night:
- in populated areas, people are recommended to have reflectors with them if they move along the roadway, including when crossing the road;
- Outside populated areas, citizens are required to have reflectors.
- If there is no curb or sidewalk, the pedestrian must walk on the side of the road towards traffic.
If a pedestrian does not have a reflective element, but it is necessary to cross the road, it is recommended to use some kind of light source, for example, a flashlight on a mobile phone. It will attract the driver's attention and help avoid an accident.
Rules for the movement of a disabled pedestrian on the roadway
Special requirements are presented for disabled people who use special wheelchairs.
On the one hand, citizens with disabilities are forced to move in a wheelchair and have no other option. On the other hand, they use a mechanism that fits the description of the vehicle. Thus, in the general provisions of the traffic rules, the concept of a vehicle is given, which is understood as a device used for transporting goods and people.
On the other hand, paragraph 1.2 of the traffic rules defines the concept of “pedestrian” and disabled people in wheelchairs are also included in this category of traffic participants.
It turns out that in general, general rules that apply to pedestrians in general apply to citizens with disabilities. But there are still some features, they are directly indicated in the traffic rules:
- the first paragraph of clause 4.1 of the traffic rules states that even if there is a sidewalk or other area for people, citizens who use wheelchairs have the right to move along the edge of the roadway;
- the third paragraph states that people usually walk towards traffic, but people in wheelchairs must move in the direction of traffic (when traveling on the road).
There are no special features for disabled people who move without wheelchairs. They participate in road traffic along with other pedestrians and, if there is no shoulder, are required to move on the left side of the road against traffic.
Which side should a pedestrian walk on the sidewalk?
Traffic regulations establish rules of movement for pedestrians and clearly define that a pedestrian must walk along the road against traffic, that is, on the left side. However, traffic regulations do not contain requirements for the movement of people on sidewalks.
Outside the roadway, citizens can move on any side. There are also no special requirements regarding sidewalks.
If there is a bike path but no sidewalk, a pedestrian can walk along it, but there are also limitations. There is no direct indication regarding the direction of movement, but pedestrians should not interfere with bicycles; accordingly, they move from the edge.
Which side should a pedestrian walk on if there is no sidewalk?
If there is no sidewalk or curb, the pedestrian must move against the traffic, that is, on the left side. If there is a shoulder, then you can walk along it in the direction of travel.
If there is one-way traffic on the road, then you can only walk along it as a last resort. You can move on any side, but always from the very edge.
Rights and responsibilities of a pedestrian
The rights and responsibilities of pedestrians are outlined in Chapter 4 of the Traffic Regulations. Among the main points are the following:
- Pedestrian movement is carried out in specially designated areas. You should only go out onto the roadway if they are not there.
- If there is no other option, then you can move along the edge of the road, in the direction of traffic.
- At night, a person should ensure maximum visibility using reflectors. In populated areas this is a recommendation, but outside of them it is a requirement.
- Foot columns are always directed in the direction of travel . More than 4 people are not allowed in one row. There should be guides with red flags on the front and back. In case of poor visibility, they must use lights, white in front and red in back (Section 4.2 of the Traffic Regulations).
- Crossing the road is carried out at traffic lights and special crossings, and when they are absent, at intersections (clause 4.3 of the traffic rules).
- In regulated areas, people must obey general requirements (clause 4.4 of the traffic rules).
- Before crossing the road, pedestrians must make sure that the maneuver is safe (clause 4.5 of the traffic rules).
- You cannot stop while crossing unless it is related to safety (Section 4.6 of the Traffic Regulations).
- Citizens must also let cars with special signals pass. If they are already on the road, they must clear it as quickly as possible (clause 4.7 of the traffic rules).
- You can wait for transport at special areas, and if they are not available, on the sidewalks (Section 4.8 of the Traffic Regulations).
Pedestrians have the same rights as other road users. Among the special rights, one can highlight the advantage at special crossings, sidewalks, as well as with an appropriate traffic light signal.
Penalty for driving incorrectly on the roadway
Administrative liability is provided not only for violation of traffic rules by drivers, but also applies to pedestrians. Thus, the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation presents a number of norms for violation of which citizens are held accountable:
All violations by pedestrians, including jaywalking and other common violations, are punishable in accordance with these articles.
Who is at fault in an accident with a pedestrian?
A fine is not the only type of liability that a pedestrian bears if he is at fault. However, in practice, situations where a person moving independently will be at fault are quite rare.
Thus, in accordance with paragraph 8.1 of the traffic rules, the driver must ensure the safety of his maneuver, as well as inform other road users about the actions being taken (for example, using a turn signal).
If a driver hits a person at a crossing, then it will not be possible to avoid liability. The blame falls entirely on whoever was driving, since pedestrians have the right of way in such areas.
A similar situation arises if the accident occurred on the sidewalk or roadside (provided there is no sidewalk). In these places, the pedestrian also has an advantage if he walked on the right side of the road and did not violate any other rules.
The situation becomes more complicated when an accident occurs outside pedestrian zones, that is, on the roadway. There is an opinion that even in this case the driver will bear full responsibility, but this is not always the case.
A citizen driving a car or other transport will be held liable in the following situations:
- he had the opportunity to avoid a collision;
- the lighting was sufficient, the person appeared on the road in advance;
- the accident occurred due to a malfunction of his vehicle;
- the driver was intoxicated.
Innocence can be proven by referring to poor lighting, the fact that the person appeared on the side of the road unexpectedly and did not have reflective elements in the dark. In this case, you can use the testimony of registrars and witnesses.
When moving, people must follow a number of rules that are introduced to achieve safety. At first glance, they seem simple, but in practice they have their own characteristics:
- The law identifies wheelchair users as a special group, assigning them movement in the direction of traffic. But other disabled people do not have any special requirements; their position on the road is regulated by the general rules inherent to pedestrians.
- A citizen may also be brought to civil liability if he is found guilty as a result of registering an accident. Victims have the right to file a claim for damages in court. The amount of damage is confirmed by documents and examination.
- A pedestrian may also be held criminally liable if, as a result of his guilt, another citizen receives serious bodily injury (Article 268 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation).
- Organized columns move along the sides of the road according to their own rules.
- Cyclists must follow their own rules and are considered pedestrians only if they ride alongside.
- A person who violates the rules of crossing or being on the wrong side of the road may also be found guilty. But everything is considered individually.
The legislator did not provide for liability for being on the roadway and crossing a road within a populated area without reflectors, but in the event of an accident, a pedestrian on foot may be found guilty, especially in a situation where other lighting was insufficient.
Basic rules of behavior on the road for pedestrians
Natalya Galayda
Basic rules of behavior on the road for pedestrians
BASIC RULES FOR SAFE BEHAVIOR ON THE ROAD FOR PEDESTRIANS
1. Never run out onto the road in front of an approaching car - the driver cannot stop the car right away.
2. Cross the roadway only in designated places at pedestrian crossings, making sure that approaching traffic on the left and right allows you to pass .
3. Cars parked on the sidewalk block your view of the road . Therefore, you first need to look out from behind a standing car, assess the situation and make sure it’s safe to cross.
4. When getting off a bus or trolleybus, do not run out onto the road . Wait until he drives away, and only then, after making sure that there are no cars, cross the road .
5. When exiting the tram, walk onto the sidewalk, go to the nearest pedestrian crossing and cross the roadway.
6. Do not run out onto the road outside the pedestrian crossing zone ; in this place the driver does not expect pedestrians and will not be able to instantly stop the car.
7. You are not allowed to ride on the roadway on skateboards or roller skates.
8. It is dangerous to play ball and other games near the roadway; it is better to do this in the yard or on the playground.
RULES TO FOLLOW!
1. cross the street only when the traffic light is green;
2. cross the street in appropriate places, making it clear to drivers of your intention, so as not to force them to brake suddenly;
3. move on sidewalks;
4. use the underground passage, if available;
5. do not walk near the roadway;
6. do not accumulate at bus stops, forcing other pedestrians to leave the sidewalk ;
7. give way to parents with baby strollers;
8. do not walk along a narrow sidewalk arm in arm or hugging each other, occupying it entirely.
9. All these rules should be dictated by good upbringing and a sense of respect for others.
10. Realize that the zebra crossing does not guarantee complete safety. Of course, you can think the other way around and run across the road . You will be right , but you risk getting maimed or worse. Do you agree that being a disabled person is not the best option?
11. When approaching the road , look at the approaching car, indicating your intention to go to the zebra crossing .
12. Only after making sure that the driver has seen you and started to slow down, and he is at a sufficient distance from you, can the pedestrian the road .
13. Be careful : just because the driver starts to stop does not guarantee that he won’t run into you. The road can be slippery, the tires on the wheels are “bald” , the brakes are bad. It is better to wait until the car comes to a complete stop.
14. Always assume that an overtaking car may well be driving in the second lane, and its driver may not see you.
15. Walk along the crossing at a normal pace. You shouldn’t run across, but you shouldn’t “crawl”
16. In some situations, it wouldn’t hurt to nod your head to the driver who missed you as a sign of gratitude.
The Traffic Rules say : “ A pedestrian is a person who is outside a vehicle on the road and is not working on it. Persons moving in wheelchairs without motors, driving a bicycle, moped, motorcycle, carrying a sled, cart, child stroller or wheelchair are considered pedestrians . ”
This means that pedestrians are all people walking along the road , and even if they are carrying a bicycle, moped or motorcycle next to them, they are also pedestrians .
RULES OF CONDUCT FOR PEDESTRIANS
Pedestrians must move on sidewalks or pedestrian paths , and in their absence, along the sides. (If there are no sidewalks, footpaths or shoulders , or if it is impossible to move along them, pedestrians can move along a bicycle path or follow each other along the edge of the roadway.)
On a country road, pedestrians must walk towards the movement of vehicles. Pedestrians moving in wheelchairs without a motor, as well as those driving a bicycle, moped or motorcycle next to them, must follow the direction of travel of vehicles.
Pedestrians can cross the carriageway at pedestrian crossings , and if there are none, at intersections along sidewalks or roadsides. In the absence of a pedestrian crossing or intersection, a pedestrian is allowed to cross the road at right angles to the edge of the roadway in an area without a dividing strip or fences. In this case, the road should be clearly visible in both directions.
When there is a traffic controller on the road , pedestrians must follow his signals. Pedestrian traffic can also be regulated by a pedestrian traffic light . In the absence of a traffic controller and a pedestrian traffic light, you must be guided by the signals of the transport traffic light.
At unregulated pedestrian crossings, pedestrians may enter the roadway only after they have assessed the distance to approaching vehicles and are convinced that the crossing will be safe.
When crossing the roadway outside a pedestrian crossing, pedestrians should be especially careful. A pedestrian should not enter the roadway due to any obstacle (a car standing at the sidewalk, etc., interfering with the view of the roadway, until he is convinced that there are no approaching vehicles. Once out on the roadway, pedestrians should not linger or stop, unless it is related to ensuring traffic safety.
Pedestrians who do not have time to complete the crossing must stop on the center line dividing traffic flows in opposite directions , or on a “safety island” . It will be possible to continue the crossing only after making sure that further movement is safe and if the traffic light signal (regulator) allows the crossing.
When approaching a car with a blue flashing light and special sound signals, pedestrians are required to refrain from crossing the roadway, and those on the roadway are required to immediately vacate it (step back or quickly cross to the desired side, giving way to such a vehicle .
Let's look at the general safety measures that must be observed when pedestrians move on the roads .
When leaving the entrance of the house, pay attention to whether a car, motorcycle, moped, or bicycle is approaching you.
If there is a car parked near the house or trees growing that block your view, before entering the roadway, look around to see if there is a moving vehicle behind the obstacle.
When driving on the sidewalk, always stay on the right side so as not to interfere with oncoming pedestrian or interfere with traffic.
When walking along the sidewalk past a gate or garage exit, you need to pay attention to whether a car is leaving.
When preparing to cross the road , you need to inspect the roadway. Let us repeat that pedestrians cross the roadway at pedestrian crossings or at intersections.
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Traffic rules for pedestrians. Where can you go on the road?
Good afternoon, dear reader.
This article is the first part of a series on traffic rules for pedestrians .
Let's start with the fact that every road user is, to one degree or another, a pedestrian. And even the most hardened drivers, who spend day and night behind the wheel, still sometimes leave the comfort of their vehicles and become pedestrians. This means that absolutely everyone needs to know the rules for pedestrians.
Who is a pedestrian according to traffic rules?
Before moving on to consider traffic rules for pedestrians, you need to understand who a pedestrian is from the point of view of the rules. According to paragraph 1.2 of the traffic rules:
“Pedestrian” is a person who is outside a vehicle on the road or on a pedestrian or bicycle path and is not working on them. Persons moving in wheelchairs, driving a bicycle, moped, motorcycle, carrying a sled, cart, baby or wheelchair, as well as using roller skates, scooters and other similar means for movement are considered pedestrians.
The following can act as a pedestrian:
- Person outside the vehicle.
- Cyclist, mopedist, motorcyclist.
- Man on roller skates, scooter, skateboard.
1. Pay attention to the fact that a cyclist, mopedist, or motorcyclist can act as both pedestrians and vehicle drivers.
For example, if you get on a bicycle, then you are a driver, if you get off the bicycle, then you are a pedestrian. This allows you to use traffic rules to your advantage.
If you want to use the pedestrian crossing, you must dismount. If you want to continue driving along the roadway, then get on your bike.
2. Persons riding roller skates, scooters, and skateboards are in any case pedestrians.
3. Road workers are not pedestrians and are not required to follow the rules for pedestrians. However, if a worker does not perform work on the roadway, then he automatically becomes a pedestrian.
Location of pedestrians on the road
Now let's discuss the rules related to the movement of pedestrians on the road :
4.1. Pedestrians must move on sidewalks, pedestrian paths, bicycle and pedestrian paths, and, if there are none, along the roadsides.
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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).
So, the pedestrian must choose to move (in descending order):
- Sidewalk, pedestrian path, bicycle and pedestrian path.
- Roadside.
- A bicycle path or the edge of a roadway.
The figures below indicate all the elements of the road along which pedestrian traffic is possible:
Let's look at what each of the terms listed above means.
“Sidewalk” is an element of the road intended for pedestrian traffic and adjacent to the roadway or bicycle path or separated from them by a lawn.
“Shoulder” is an element of the road adjacent directly to the roadway at the same level with it, differing in the type of surface or marked out using markings 1.2, used for driving, stopping and parking in accordance with the Rules.
At the same time, there cannot be both a sidewalk and a curb . The sidewalk is either adjacent to the roadway or separated from it by a lawn. The shoulder also adjoins the road at the same level as it. Those. the shoulder must be located at the same level as the road.
For example, if a depression (ditch) begins on the side of the roadway, then there is no shoulder on such a road.
Footpath
“Pedestrian path” is a strip of land equipped or adapted for pedestrian traffic or the surface of an artificial structure, marked with sign 4.5.1.
The pedestrian path is indicated by sign 4.5.1:
Bike and pedestrian path
“Pedestrian and bicycle path (pedestrian and bicycle path)” is a road element (or a separate road) structurally separated from the roadway, intended for the separate or joint movement of cyclists with pedestrians and indicated by signs 4.5.2 - 4.5.7.
The bicycle and pedestrian path is indicated by signs 4.5.2 - 4.5.7:
First of all, the rules require pedestrians to choose to travel either on the sidewalk, on a pedestrian path, or on a bicycle and pedestrian path.
But what to choose if you have all the listed elements at the same time? In this case, you can choose the road at your own discretion.
If there is no pedestrian path, no bicycle path, no sidewalk on the road, then traffic rules allow you to walk on the side of the road. If there is not even a shoulder, or it is impossible to move along it, then you can continue driving along the roadway or bicycle path.
Pedestrians in wheelchairs and carrying loads
Pedestrians carrying or carrying bulky objects, as well as people in wheelchairs, may move along the edge of the roadway if their movement on sidewalks or shoulders creates an obstacle for other pedestrians.
Please note that the rules allow a special mode of movement for persons carrying bulky items, as well as those in wheelchairs.
They can, on their own initiative, choose the roadway instead of driving on the sidewalk.
However, this is a right, not an obligation. Those. Even if a bulky object interferes with other pedestrians, you are not required to go out onto the roadway with it.
Direction of pedestrian movement on the roadway
When walking along the edge of the roadway, pedestrians must walk towards the movement of vehicles. Persons moving in wheelchairs, driving a motorcycle, moped, bicycle, in these cases must follow the direction of travel of the vehicles.
Please note that pedestrians must walk towards vehicles, i.e. in the oncoming lane (on the left side of the roadway). However, pedestrians driving a bicycle, moped, motorcycle or using wheelchairs must follow the passing lane (along the right edge of the roadway).
Features of movement in the dark
When crossing the road and driving along the sides or edge of the roadway in the dark or in conditions of insufficient visibility, pedestrians are recommended, and outside populated areas, pedestrians are required to carry objects with reflective elements and ensure that these objects are visible to vehicle drivers.
Let's consider the concepts of darkness and insufficient visibility:
“Darkness” is the period of time from the end of evening twilight to the beginning of morning twilight.
“Insufficient visibility” - visibility of the road is less than 300 m in conditions of fog, rain, snowfall, etc., as well as at dusk.
If you are forced to cross the road, walk along the side of the road or roadway outside a populated area in bad weather or at night, then the rules oblige you to use reflective items. In populated areas, the rules recommend the use of reflectors, i.e. It is not necessary to wear them, but it is advisable.
For example, you can wear a special yellow vest, which is usually used by road workers. Such vests are sold in workwear stores and cost between 100 and 200 rubles.
I note that for the absence of reflectors outside populated areas, a pedestrian may be fined by the traffic police. In populated areas, the rules only recommend having retroreflectors, and no penalties are provided for their absence.
Nevertheless, reflectors allow the driver to notice a pedestrian in time and reduce speed, so I recommend that pedestrians use them constantly. Otherwise, you risk your life and health.
Traffic police fines for pedestrians
Let's look at the fines that the Code of Administrative Offenses for pedestrians provides for:
Rules for the movement of pedestrians on the side of the road and the roadway
Not only those who drive cars, but also pedestrians are full participants in any road traffic. It does not matter whether a person owns a car, moped, motorcycle or bicycle. Everyone must understand what laws exist, which side of the road a pedestrian should walk on, and how a driver should drive. Ignoring traffic rules is fraught with catastrophic consequences.
Pedestrian movement
According to the Road Traffic Rules (TRAF), approved by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation of October 23, 1993 No. 1090, any person who independently controls a moving vehicle or teaches another to drive it is considered a driver. People moving without the use of transport are classified as pedestrians. This also includes people with disabilities in wheelchairs that are not equipped with engines, and people pushing a bicycle or moped with their hands.
To prevent extreme situations on the road, all participants must clearly understand what rights they have and what responsibilities they bear. For safe walking, the road surface is equipped with sidewalks or special pedestrian paths. Where both are absent, a roadside suitable for movement is installed.
A sidewalk is an asphalt, paved or wooden path rising above the ground, running on the side of the street, separated from the main road surface by a curb or other fence.
Driving in such a place is completely prohibited. An exception can be made only for public service equipment and road maintenance equipment. Parking on sidewalks is permitted only where special signs are installed. In the complete absence of other routes, access for unloading goods is possible.
A pedestrian path is a structure located outside the road, used for walking outside or inside a populated area, marked with sign 4.5.1.
The sign is placed directly at the beginning of the part of the road on which a restriction for vehicles is introduced. Its action continues immediately after the installation site. Sign 4.5.2 “End of the pedestrian path” cancels the ban.
Pedestrian movement along the roadway
According to the requirements of paragraph 4.1 of the traffic rules, it is allowed to walk only on a pedestrian path or equipped sidewalk. If it is not there, you can walk on a path intended for bicycles.
It is allowed to move along the road along a suitable shoulder and the edge of a hard road surface if the former is in poor condition. Then you need to move in one row towards traffic, that is, on the left. By the way, riding a bicycle is allowed only in the direction that coincides with the flow of traffic, the same rule applies if a person drives the vehicle manually.
The second important point of the traffic rules is 4.3. According to it, pedestrians can move to the other side strictly along a pedestrian crossing equipped with sign 5.19.1 or a painted zebra crossing. If there is no one in the line of sight, crossing at the intersection along an imaginary line of the curb or sidewalk is allowed.
A pedestrian crossing is a purposefully designated sector of the road surface, which is designed to move to the opposite side, as well as an engineering structure equipped for the same purpose, above or below the surface.
The movement of pedestrians along the roadway at intersections in a populated area is also regulated by traffic rules. Knowing and applying them is extremely important for safety.
It happens that at an intersection that is not equipped with a traffic light, the markings are applied not exactly after the sidewalk, but on the side. In this case, you need to strictly follow the zebra crossing, walking only along it. When planning to cross the road, you should make sure that the moving vehicle can actually brake before crossing. Even a light-weight car cannot be stopped instantly at a speed of 45-50 km/h. But a whole stream could follow.
At crossings not regulated by light signals, paragraph 4.5 of the traffic rules requires leaving the sidewalk or roadside on the hard surface to cross only after assessing the distance to moving cars.
According to paragraph 4.4 of the Rules, where regulation is carried out by a pedestrian traffic light with the image of a “little man”, it is necessary to be guided by it. If there is only a transport traffic light, it is allowed to cross to the other side when the green permitting signal is on in the direction of traffic flow, and no one turns at this time onto the roadway being crossed. Based on clause 13.1 of the traffic rules, the driver in this case must stop and let people pass, but situations are different, so you should be extremely vigilant.
What is prohibited for pedestrians?
Firstly, you must not interfere with the movement of traffic or go out onto the road because of a standing large vehicle that limits your view. First you need to make sure that there are no approaching cars.
Secondly, based on clause 4.8 of the traffic rules, you cannot wait for a bus or other route vehicle outside the landing area elevated above the surface level. If there is none, you must stand on the sidewalk, the sidewalk, which is prohibited from leaving until the vehicle arrives and stops moving. When exiting it, you must immediately leave the canvas.
It is forbidden to pass around the bus from behind, and the tram from the front.
In addition, you cannot:
- allow a child to go out on the road without being accompanied by an adult;
- outside the crossing, cross a road equipped with a dividing strip or consisting of four or more lanes for driving in each direction;
- cross the road where there is a protective fence;
- hesitate, linger on the road, unless otherwise poses an immediate danger;
- go along the motorway.
- lead a group or class of children outside the designated areas, in the dark, without accompanying adults.
At night and in conditions of poor visibility, a person on the roadway or side of the road in a populated area should, if possible, wear reflective elements on shoes and clothing. For pedestrians walking through countryside, the absence of such elements is strictly prohibited.
You cannot walk diagonally at a signalized intersection: this option is only possible if special markings are applied (1.14.1, 1.14.2).
A person who is already on the roadway, when approaching a car with a working blue (blue-red) flashing light, must immediately clear the road. If such a vehicle appears in sight before the intersection begins, you need to refrain from it.
Pedestrian rights
Which side of the road a pedestrian should walk on in a populated area is determined by the direction of traffic flow. As mentioned earlier, it is allowed to walk towards cars along the edge of the road if there is no equipped sidewalk. Unfortunately, this phenomenon often occurs in our country.
A person walking along an unregulated pedestrian crossing has an advantage over moving vehicles. The driver is obliged to stop the vehicle and let it pass. If during the crossing the permit signal for vehicles comes on, the pedestrian has the right to complete the crossing.
A person walking towards a bus or other vehicle stopped in a designated place from the door also has priority: drivers are required to let him through. In any place on the road, even outside the crossing marked with signs and markings, blind pedestrians have priority and signal to drivers with a white cane. People carrying or transporting large loads have the right to move along the edge of the roadway without creating interference with their actions.
The most vulnerable road user is the pedestrian. His rights are in many ways similar to the rights of people driving vehicles. For example, he has the right to express disagreement with the traffic police inspector and to express his point of view in writing in a protocol on an administrative offense.
In the manner provided for in Art. 30.2 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation, a pedestrian held accountable has the right to file a complaint against the decision made to the prosecutor's office. No later than three days from the date of receipt, it is sent to the appropriate judicial authority for consideration. As a result, the illegal document may be canceled, and the negligent inspector will be subject to disciplinary action.
As practice shows, in most cases the judge takes the side of the citizen, and not the police officer. Therefore, it is always worth fighting for your rights to the end. The law provides for the possibility of filing a claim for compensation for moral and material damage caused as a result of unlawful bringing to administrative responsibility. Such cases are usually won, and the person is paid money for the inconvenience caused.
The main legislative norm applied in the vast majority of cases in practice to pedestrians is Article 12.29 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation. The first part regulates the movement of pedestrians along the sidewalk, sidewalk and roadway, that is, compliance with traffic rules. The second part provides for sanctions for persons riding a bicycle. The third part indicates the responsibility of such road users who are in a state of any intoxication.
95% of protocols on administrative offenses are drawn up annually precisely under Part 1 of Art. 12.29 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation. At the same time, citizens who commit an offense for the first time are most often given a punishment in the form of a warning.
Such a resolution comes into force on the eleventh day after delivery of its copy to the involved entity. Within one year after this, a person, on the basis of Art. 4.6 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation is considered to have been brought to administrative responsibility. That is, if during this period of time he repeatedly violates the Traffic Rules, he will face a more severe punishment: a fine of 500 rubles.
For parts 2 and 3 there is no warning, but sanctions are imposed:
- according to Part 2 of Art. 12.29 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation – 800 rubles;
- according to Part 3 of Art. 12.29 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation - from 1000 to 1500 rubles.
The second most common norm is Article 12.30 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation. It establishes liability for failure to comply with traffic rules by pedestrians, which ultimately resulted in interference with the free movement of a vehicle or causing mild or moderate harm to human health.
The first part of the article defines sanctions for obstructing moving vehicles. Such an act entails punishment - a fine of 1000 rubles. The second part of the norm provides for liability for failure to comply with traffic rules, which through negligence resulted in health consequences (mild or moderate severity). This violation is punishable by an amount from 1000 to 1500 rubles.
The decision imposing a fine also comes into force on the eleventh day after delivery of the copy. The difference from a warning is that a person is subject to administrative liability for a year from the date of payment of the fine. Article 32.2 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation allocates 60 days for this, after which liability for delay occurs.