Modifying traffic regulations in Belarus
Starting September 1, Belarus will enforce new traffic rules, bringing significant changes to the way cyclists and users of personal mobility devices (PMDs) navigate the country's roads.
One of the key changes is the registration and licensing of PMDs, with violators facing fines ranging from 5 to 20 base units, or up to 50 for repeat offenses. PMD users will be treated as cyclists under the new rules, meaning they will be subject to similar regulations.
Cyclists and PMD users will be required to dismount when crossing a road, except at designated bike crossings with special traffic lights. Failure to comply will result in a fine under Article 18.20 of the Code of Administrative Offenses.
E-scooters, among other PMDs, will be allowed to travel at 25 km/h on bike lanes and 10 km/h on sidewalks. However, PMDs weighing more than 35 kg will be prohibited from pedestrian areas and sidewalks.
To ensure compliance, offenders using e-scooters or similar devices will be detected using special GIAI developments designed to track their speed.
In cases where minor injuries were caused or the driver left the scene of the accident, the fine will be from 5 to 20 base units. If a minor under 18 commits a violation, the matter will be handled by a juvenile affairs commission, and the parents may be held responsible for improper upbringing.
Repeated violations may lead to administrative arrest or community service (Article 18.14 of the Code of Administrative Offenses). Criminal responsibility may be imposed for repeated violations, with penalties ranging from a fine to up to six months of community or corrective labor (Article 317.2 of the Criminal Code).
The new rules also affect the use of cars. From September 1, rear window tinting for cars will be allowed. Interestingly, cars will no longer be subject to speed limits on highways or open roads, although this information was not explicitly provided in the text.
Gardening cooperative territories are now considered residential zones, giving priority to pedestrians, cyclists, and PMD users over other vehicles. However, they should not unreasonably obstruct the movement of other vehicles.
From December 1 to March 1, the use of "All Season" marked tires will also be prohibited. It is important to note that failure to comply with these new rules will result in fines and possible administrative penalties.
