Autumn will see amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations come into force. New provisions have been introduced to regulate the use of such vehicles as electric scooters, gyroscooters, and segways.
“A generalized concept of ‘personal mobility device (PMD)’ has been introduced for electric scooters, gyroscooters, monowheels, segways, and other devices.
- In recent years, the number of electric-powered vehicles, such as electric scooters, gyroscooters, and segways, has significantly increased. The speeds some of these devices can reach (some electric scooters accelerate up to 50 km/h and more) can pose a threat to both pedestrians and the riders themselves. At the same time, clear rules regulating the use of such mobility devices had not been developed. This complicated ensuring traffic safety and monitoring compliance with traffic rules by individuals using these devices. A special concept of ‘personal mobility device’ has now been introduced. This includes devices powered by an engine but not classified as vehicles – electric scooters, gyroscooters, segways, monowheels, etc. At the same time, a person moving on a PMD is equated to a pedestrian, just like those moving on roller skates, skis, scooters, or in wheelchairs.
Movement on PMDs must be on a bicycle path, and in its absence – on a pavement, pedestrian path, or verge at a speed not exceeding 25 km/h, without creating obstacles for pedestrians. Movement on the carriageway is not permitted.
– It should be remembered: the lower the speed, the less danger to other pedestrians and the person operating the PMD. And please note: an electric scooter must not obstruct cyclists on bicycle paths, or other pedestrians on pavements or pedestrian paths. They must cross the carriageway at cycle crossings or bicycle paths, and in their absence, at pedestrian crossings, ensuring the safety of the crossing, and at the speed of a walking pedestrian. Furthermore, individuals operating PMDs during dark hours must be visible with reflective elements, and the PMD must have its headlight (lamp) switched on. Wearing a helmet is recommended.
/>Among the restrictions on movement on SPM are alcoholic or drug intoxication, age - from 14 years (except for residential and pedestrian zones).
Speed limits on roads
The amendments establish the possibility of moving outside populated areas on motorways and roads for cars, motorcycles, and trucks with a mass not exceeding 3.5 tons at a speed of no more than 120 km/h, and for buses - no higher than 100 km/h.
-This point was misinterpreted by many drivers at once, believing that the speed limit up to 120 km/h would increase on all roads. This is not the case! It only applies to motorways and roads for cars designated by special road signs (pictures). Currently, the speed on them is increased using speed limit signs (pictures 110 and 120). After the amendments come into force, there will be no need to install such signs on these roads.
As for other roads, everything remains unchanged for now. I remind you that the choice of speed mode is the driver's responsibility. It should not be determined solely by signs; it is necessary to primarily consider the time of day, traffic intensity, weather conditions, road surface condition, etc.
The amendments establish the possibility of moving outside populated areas on motorways and roads for cars, motorcycles, and trucks with a mass not exceeding 3.5 tons at a speed of no more than 120 km/h, and for buses - no higher than 100 km/h.
-This point was misinterpreted by many drivers at once, believing that the speed limit up to 120 km/h would increase on all roads. This is not the case! It only applies to motorways and roads for cars designated by special road signs (pictures). Currently, the speed on them is increased using speed limit signs (pictures 110 and 120). After the amendments come into force, there will be no need to install such signs on these roads.
As for other roads, everything remains unchanged for now. I remind you that the choice of speed mode is the driver's responsibility. It should not be determined solely by signs; it is necessary to primarily consider the time of day, traffic intensity, weather conditions, road surface condition, etc.
New road sign
A new road sign "Zone with a maximum speed limit" is being introduced. When it is present, the speed of vehicles in certain areas, for example, in densely populated residential areas, is limited to 30 km/h.
A new road sign "Zone with a maximum speed limit" is being introduced. When it is present, the speed of vehicles in certain areas, for example, in densely populated residential areas, is limited to 30 km/h.