Riders of Motorcycles Could Potentially Use Dedicated Transport Lanes
Sharing the Road! Could Motorcycles Use Public Transport Lanes?
Stuck in the slow lane
At present, motorcyclists are just like any other driver, sharing the road with automobile owners and abiding by the same rules. They can't ride on shoulders, median strips, or bus lanes reserved for public transport. The exception is the space between lanes, allowing them to bypass traffic congestion and save time. Unfortunately, this maneuver often leads to accidents.
The National Automobile Federation (NAF) isechoing concerns about safety and has proposed a solution. They've requested an revision to 18.2 of the Road Traffic Regulations, allowing two-wheeled vehicles to use public transport lanes.
Cleaner beaches, happier society
According to NIITS BDD MVD data, there was a sharp increase in major motorcycle accident indicators in 2024. The number of accidents, deaths, and injuries all rose significantly that year. To preserve the health and lives of motorcyclists and reduce accidents, the NAF suggests utilizing dedicated lanes effectively.
When these lanes were first introduced on Russian roads, they were accessible to all vehicles during nighttime and weekends; however, this idea was later abandoned due to inefficient utilization during non-congested periods. During traffic jams, cars, buses, trolleybuses, and minibuses frequently occupied the additional lanes, leaving no space for bikers. In practice, the lack of usage justified a complete ban for all vehicles except public transport and taxis.
Better for everyone, no extra cost
NAF Vice-President Anton Shaparin argues that allowing motorcycles on dedicated lanes has benefits for all road users. Since traffic jams are common, using the additional lane increases road capacity, especially for motorcyclists. It also relieves stress for regular drivers who are inconvenienced by Riders constantly weaving between cars. Moreover, implementing the proposed amendment won't require any additional resources from the authorities.
Of course, some bikers might see it as an opportunity to speed, increasing their chances of accidents. But, as long as they obey traffic laws, motorcyclists stand to gain from this change without putting others in danger. Motorcycle patrols can easily catch speeding riders using cameras, which are abundant in large cities, particularly Moscow.
Easier process than you think!
The MVD would need to pass this proposal for motorcyclists to start using dedicated lanes. If they prioritize achieving President Putin's goal of zero road fatalities by supporting this amendment, there's a good chance we'll see changes on Russian roads soon.
Stay informed on the latest traffic rule updates and anticipated amendments by visiting our page!
Are you ready for dedicated lanes, fellow motorcyclists? Share your thoughts.
Related Articles
- master the correct yield to "flashing lights": Ministry of Transport prepares new amendments to traffic regulations*
In light of the concerns about safety and the increase in motorcycle accidents, the National Automobile Federation (NAF) has proposed a revision to the Road Traffic Regulations, suggesting that motorcyclists be allowed to use public transport lanes to ensure safety and reduce accidents.
Studies show that when dedicated lanes were introduced on Russian roads, accidents involving motorcyclists decreased due to increased road capacity and reduced maneuvers between cars, benefiting both motorcyclists and other road users.
