On May 2, public discussions of the draft law on the new edition of the traffic rules started in Belarus. In the process of creating this project, the expert team of the Moscow Military District advised the UGAI of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Belarus, and almost all of our proposals were taken into account. In our opinion, important improvements have been made to the draft traffic rules that describe the movement of cyclists. These improvements will bring the Rules closer to the editions of the countries of the European Union.
So, what we are invited to discuss, what we agree with, and what we recommend to adjust.
May 2 in Belarus started public comment the draft law on the new edition of the traffic rules. In the process of creating this project, the expert team of the Moscow Military District advised the UGAI of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Belarus, and almost all of our proposals were taken into account. In our opinion, important improvements have been made to the draft traffic rules that describe the movement of cyclists. These improvements will bring the Rules closer to the editions of the countries of the European Union.
So, what we are invited to discuss, what we agree with, and what we recommend to adjust.
Ability to move along the carriageway on the laid-back streets
An important concept has been introduced "Zone with a maximum speed limit" (it will be possible to create zones of 30 km / h in cities), where cyclists will have the right to move along the carriageway.
We are for it". The position of the Moscow Military District remains unchanged - over time, we need to return the ability to ride a bicycle on the carriageway, but we understand that at present it is unsafe on the large streets of large cities in Belarus.
Innovations in markings and information signs / plates
The concept of "road with a cycle path" has been introduced, a sign "does not apply to cyclists", the requirement for marking a cycle path has been simplified (formally, now there is no need to install signs after each intersection).
We are for it". These innovations will make it easier to organize bike lanes on the road and simplify their identification.
If there is a traffic light or a traffic controller, then you can not dismount
According to the new traffic rules, cyclists will not be able to dismount at regulated crossings, but at the same time they must move at the speed of a walking pedestrian. On unregulated crossings, cyclists will still be required to dismount.
We are for it". We believe that at the moment this is the correct option. Ability not to dismount important, but at unregulated intersections it may be less safe, although the issue is debated, there are many small crossings where such an intersection is natural and safe.
Simplified "winter" rules
The ban on driving in snow and icy conditions now remains only when driving on the roadway. The sidewalk and bike path can be cycled in any weather.
We are for it". In our opinion, a bicycle as a means of transport can be used all year round and in any weather.
You can ride without a mirror
In the new traffic rules, the requirement for the mandatory presence of a mirror has been removed.
We are for it". This requirement is contrary to the Vienna Convention, and formally cyclists can now be fined for not having a rear-view mirror.
Be brighter outside the city!
A mandatory requirement is introduced for the use of vests on country roads at night.
We are for it". We believe that this is correct, since the factor of "night time" is one of the main reasons for the death of cyclists outside the city.
Added mono-wheels, scooters, gyro scooters ...
The project describes the means of personal mobility.
We are in favor, but ... In our opinion, the inclusion of new means of transportation in the traffic rules is relevant, however, we believe that their interpretation is somewhat unsuccessful. In the near future, we will propose to introduce more precise and understandable definitions.
An electric bike arrived at the SDA
The new version of the SDA includes the concept of "electric bike". Models with a power exceeding 250 watts are proposed to be classified as mopeds, and e-bicycles with a lower power are classified as bicycles.
We are against the current wording. An unfortunate one in the draft rules is the definition of e-bicycles. They should certainly be identified (at least in order to move fast electric bicycles from the sidewalks to the roadway), but, in our opinion, the breakdown of a moped bike should be carried out according to the principle of operation of an electric motor. If the engine stops "helping" the cyclist at a speed of 25 km / h, then such a bike is equated to a regular bike, if it is to a higher speed - to a moped. According to the proposed project, it turns out that all electric bicycles more powerful than 250 watts will become mopeds with the requirements for their registration, the presence of AM category rights, the need to use a motorcycle helmet and move along the roadway.
The corrective proposals of the Minsk Cycling Society in the new edition of the SDA will be submitted to the traffic police before May 11. We also remind you that anyone can make their comments and suggestions to the bill by May 15 in special topic on the legal forum.
The expert work of the Minsk Cycling Society was supported by the European Union within the framework of the project “Urban Cycling in Belarus”.
