Upon arrival of vehicles bearing distinctive signals, journalists need to adjust their arrangements.
Starting July 26, 2025, drivers in Russia will face increased fines for violating traffic rules, as reported by both the "Khabarovsk Krai Today" news agency and the "Parliamentary Newspaper".
One of the key changes concerns the passage of vehicles with special signals, such as flashing lights. Drivers are now required to move to the next lane or to the side of the road to allow unhindered passage. Driving in the same lane at the same speed as these special vehicles is prohibited. This new rule aims to improve the priority movement of special vehicles.
Moreover, it is forbidden to overtake special vehicles by speeding in the adjacent lane or to drive at the same speed parallel to them. This rule also applies to passing cars without a colour scheme, which is a newly introduced obligation. The fines for violations of these new passing rules currently remain up to 7,500 rubles, but are expected to increase following recent amendments to the Administrative Code approved by the Federation Council.
Regarding the transportation of children, new rules will also be enforced. As of July 26, 2025, it will only be permissible to transport children in special car seats that meet the requirements of UN Regulations No. 44 and No. 129. The details about specific fines for violating these new child transportation rules are not yet clear.
Additionally, separate legislative changes in Russia, effective from late July 2025, include increased state fees related to vehicle ownership, registration, and driver's licenses, as well as fees applicable for registering foreign nationals and stateless persons at their place of residence or temporary stay.
In summary, the key new traffic rule effective July 26, 2025, focuses on strict procedures and prohibitions while passing vehicles with special signals, aiming to ensure their unhindered movement, accompanied by expected rises in fines for violations. The details about the specific fines for lane merging and child transportation are yet to be clarified.
The new rule for passing vehicles with special signals in Russia's transportation industry is aimed at prioritizing their movement. Drivers who do not comply with this rule may face fines, which are expected to increase following recent amendments to the Administrative Code. On the other hand, in the finance sector, there will be increased state fees related to vehicle ownership, registration, and driver's licenses, as well as fees for registering foreign nationals and stateless persons.
