A new version of the traffic rules comes into force in Belarus on January 4

January 4, Minsk /BELTA correspondent/. A new edition of the traffic rules comes into force in Belarus on January 4, the State Automobile Inspectorate informed BELTA. The amendments to the traffic rules were introduced by Decree No. 661 of November 25, 2010. The amendments were necessary, in particular, to bring the rules into compliance with a number of regulatory legal acts. This includes the possibility of resolving traffic accidents where the damage does not exceed 200 euros. In this case, some other requirements must also be met. The new traffic rules also now clarify the concept of leaving the scene of a road traffic accident. In addition, it will now be possible to carry passengers on mopeds (scooters) if there is an additional seat installed by the manufacturer. Previously, it was forbidden to ride two people on such scooters, even if technically possible. At the same time, as with a motorcycle, children under 12 years of age cannot be carried on the rear seat of a moped. The updated traffic rules have resolved the issue with the registration of such vehicles as quad bikes (motor tricycles). This term refers not just to a four-wheeled motorcycle or all-terrain vehicle, but to a vehicle with automotive-type controls, i.e., with a steering wheel. Its curb weight is no more than 550 kg. The new rules allow such vehicles to be registered under category B. The new document also expands the requirements for road users who are not drivers. For example, it was previously unclear what actions a passenger involved in a traffic accident should take. It is now specified that they must provide first aid. The modified traffic rules explain what documents, in addition to an international driving permit, a foreign driver will need to have. This change is due to the fact that new requirements for driving licenses for countries participating in the 1968 Convention on Road Traffic will come into force in March 2011. An important innovation concerns parking violations. Now, the traffic police will be able to block the wheels of trucks weighing over 3.5 tons, buses, wheeled tractors, and self-propelled machines. A special technical device will be used for this purpose. It is expected that a special notice will be placed on the windshield of the blocked vehicle. Most likely, the traffic police will block the front left wheel. The problem of parking in unauthorized places is quite acute in large cities of Belarus, especially in Minsk. In particular, road services face great difficulties in clearing snow from roads due to the fact that large-sized vehicles are sometimes parked on the roadside. It is not uncommon for long-haul truck drivers to leave their trucks for some time in residential courtyards or near them, obstructing the movement of other vehicles. The new edition of the traffic rules also clarifies the procedure for unloading goods into stores from vehicles. If previously trucks and vans were allowed to approach retail outlets via pedestrian zones when there was no other option, now stopping is also permitted. -0-