Motorists in Belarus applaud the actions of a driver who disregarded a traffic rule, drawing praise for his defiant act.
In Belarus, a common practice on certain roads has sparked debate and raised questions about traffic regulations. For about a decade, drivers have been reportedly using the shoulder of the Minsk-Polotsk highway for U-turns or to yield to vehicles of operational importance with flashing lights. However, the specific rules and penalties for this practice are not explicitly detailed in Belarusian traffic laws.
According to the Belarusian Road Traffic Rules (BRT), driving vehicles on sidewalks, sidewalks, bicycle paths, and horse paths is generally prohibited, except for specific cases. Yet, this practice seems to be understood and tolerated by many Belarusians. Some viewers have expressed concern about riding their bikes on the shoulder of the road due to this practice, while others have shared personal experiences of traffic police allowing them to pass in a similar manner.
The international traffic law principles and common practice in many countries, including European countries, suggest that driving on the shoulder is usually prohibited except in emergencies or when explicitly allowed by road signs. Driving in bike lanes is generally reserved for bicycles and sometimes authorized vehicles like buses or taxis; unauthorized motor vehicle use often results in fines or penalties.
Penalties for unauthorized use of shoulders or bike lanes typically involve fines, possible points on the driver’s license, or other administrative sanctions. To confirm the exact regulations and penalties in Belarus, consulting the Belarus Ministry of Internal Affairs or official government traffic regulation publications is necessary.
A recent video posted by a Belarusian driver admitting to driving on a bike lane to let cars pass has gained tens of thousands of views and mixed reactions. Most viewers fully supported the driver, while others warned that such actions could result in fines or loss of license. The driver moves his truck onto the shoulder of the road and continues moving along it, citing the need to let cars pass.
This practice is common on Belarusian roads, particularly on roads with only one lane for traffic in one direction and a wide, paved shoulder. Road workers, utility workers, and vehicles delivering goods to stores can drive on the sidewalk if there is no other way to approach them. However, it is essential to note that crossing line 1.1 (the solid white line separating the carriageway from the shoulder) is not allowed, and doing so could result in a license suspension.
In conclusion, while the specific rules and penalties for driving on shoulders or bike lanes in Belarus are not explicitly detailed in the current search results, it is crucial for drivers to be aware of the international traffic law principles and common practices. For accurate and up-to-date information, consulting official Belarus traffic laws is necessary.
What is the penalty for driving on a bike lane in Belarus, if such action is unauthorized? It appears that penalties may involve fines, points on the driver’s license, or other administrative sanctions, as is common practice in many countries, particularly in European countries. However, the exact regulations and penalties in Belarus can only be confirmed by consulting the Belarus Ministry of Internal Affairs or official government traffic regulation publications.
