Sevastopol State Traffic Safety Inspectorate: Algorithm of actions when approaching a car with flashing beacons and special signals

Section 3 of the Traffic Regulations of the Russian Federation states that drivers of vehicles with a blue flashing beacon on, while performing an urgent official task, may deviate from the requirements of some sections of the rules, except for traffic controller signals. That is, they may drive through a red light, make a U-turn or turn where it is prohibited for everyone else, drive in the oncoming lane, exceed the speed limit, but only if traffic safety is ensured. Drivers and pedestrians must understand that this vehicle is performing a «specially urgent trip» and enjoys legal priority in traffic.

In the event of this type of transport approaching, drivers are required to take the extreme right position on the roadway, stop if necessary and let the transport pass. It is necessary to prepare for this in advance, assessing and predicting the developing situation on the road around, taking this factor into account. In addition, it is prohibited to overtake such vehicles.

For failure to give way to special vehicles with special light and sound signals on, drivers risk receiving a fine of 500 rubles (Part 2 of Article 12.17 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation) or losing the right to drive vehicles for a period of 1 to 3 months.

We draw the attention of pedestrians to the obligation to refrain from crossing the roadway in the event of approaching vehicles with sound and special light signals turned on. Those who are on the roadway at this moment must immediately clear it (clause 4.7 of the Traffic Regulations of the Russian Federation).

To avoid conflict situations on the road, video recorders are installed in ambulances, fire trucks, traffic police and traffic police patrol cars.

It should be noted that a flashing beacon of yellow or orange color, as well as a white-moon color, does not give an advantage in traffic and serves to warn other road users of danger.

source: Department of the State Traffic Safety Inspectorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for the city of Sevastopol