President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko signed Decree No. 145 "On improving traffic management". The document amends Decree No. 551 of November 28, 2005, which approved the Traffic Regulations. BELTA was informed about this by the press service of the Head of State.
President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko signed Decree No. 145 "On improving traffic management". The document amends Decree No. 551 of November 28, 2005, which approved the Traffic Regulations. BELTA was informed about this by the press service of the Head of State.
The document is adopted to enhance the culture of road users, reduce the number of road traffic accidents, and encourage the use of electric transport. The practical implementation of the measures provided for by the decree will improve road safety in the country and make participation in traffic more comfortable for citizens.
Electric scooters, hoverboards, segways. Where, for whom, and how fast can one ride?
One of the innovations concerns electric scooters, hoverboards, monowheels, segways, and other devices. A generalized concept of "personal mobility device" has been introduced for them, and the procedure for their use has been defined. It will be necessary to move on such devices on bicycle paths, and in their absence – on sidewalks, pedestrian paths, or road shoulders at a speed not exceeding 25 km/h, without creating obstacles for pedestrians. An age restriction is established for the use of personal mobility devices – from 14 years of age. However, it will not apply in residential and pedestrian zones.
Speed limits on highways: 120 km/h for most, 100 km/h for buses
According to the decree, speed limits for vehicles are being optimised. Thus, the possibility of travelling outside populated areas on motorways and roads at a speed not exceeding 120 km/h for motorcycles, passenger cars, and trucks weighing no more than 3.5 tonnes is established, and for buses – not exceeding 100 km/h.
New sign: zone with a maximum speed of 30 km/h
Simultaneously, a new road sign "Zone with a limited maximum speed limit" is being introduced. When present, the speed of vehicles in certain areas, for example, in densely populated residential zones, will be limited to 30 km/h. Such zones are widely used in international practice. Their use allows for ensuring road traffic safety without installing additional speed limit signs and artificial unevenness.
Advantages for pedestrians. Prohibition of intoxicated passengers
In order to improve road traffic safety, the procedure for granting right of way is being clarified. It will be considered granted if the distance between a vehicle and an approaching pedestrian is at least two traffic lanes (if available).
Furthermore, it is prohibited to carry passengers who are knowingly in a state of alcoholic intoxication on a motorcycle (except for a sidecar attached to it) and a moped. In this case, such persons will be obliged to undergo examination upon the demand of traffic police officers.
Mandatory daytime headlight use. What has changed?
The decree establishes the obligation for drivers to switch on low beam headlights during daylight hours from May 25 to June 5 and from August 25 to September 5 when on roads. Thus, the traffic rules enshrine the annual campaigns conducted by the traffic police, timed to coincide with the beginning and end of the academic year.
Cyclists are allowed not to dismount
The procedure for cyclists' participation in road traffic is being improved. Their obligation to wear clothing with retroreflective elements when travelling outside populated areas during darkness is enshrined. Exceptions will apply to cases of travelling on a cycle path.
A cyclist will be obliged to cross the roadway via a cycle crossing or cycle path, and in their absence - via a pedestrian crossing, at an intersection along the line of pavements or verges, without creating obstacles for pedestrian traffic. In this case, the cyclist will be entitled not to dismount.
Lane for public transport? Electric vehicles are also allowed
A number of measures are aimed at stimulating the use of electric transport. Among them are the possibility for electric vehicles to use lanes designated for public transport, ensuring the accessibility of electric charging infrastructure, and others.
The stipulated changes will come into effect six months after the official publication of the decree.
Source: belta.by