Hand signals and stops
According to Traffic Police Administrative Regulations, an officer can halt a vehicle using a baton or a disc with a red signal aimed at the vehicle. Section 6.11 of the SDA specifies that the request to stop is delivered through a loudspeaker or a hand gesture directed at the vehicle. There is no single, exact gesture defined for inspectors. The officer may use either a baton or a hand, as long as the driver clearly understands what is required.
I did not notice the signal – what happens next?
Poor visibility, fog, or distracted driving can happen. In many cases, radio communication remains on and the next traffic police unit stops the vehicle. Under article 12.25, failure to comply with the stop request carries a fine ranging from 500 to 800 rubles. Police may pursue and stop by force if there is reasonable belief that a criminal, a thief, or a dangerous driver is behind the wheel.
Is there a stricter penalty if the pursuit uses flashing lights?
Even after attempts to stop via loudspeaker, a driver who complies with the lawful orders must receive the same 500 to 800 ruble fine under Part 2 of Article 12.25 of the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation. Disobedience to a police order can lead to harsher sanctions under part 19.3 of the Code, including a fine from 2,000 to 4,000 rubles, administrative arrest for up to 15 days, or compulsory labor for 40 to 120 hours if an attempt is made to evade punishment during prosecution.
Administrative Regulations and the law On Police authorize officers to compel a stop in such situations using special measures, which can include road blocks with trucks or even wheel challenges. Damages to the vehicle are not reimbursed, and this situation poses obvious danger. If the driver resists the lawful demands and behaves aggressively, the inspector may use force or weapons.
How can a driver prove an unintentional violation?
According to Article 1.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, doubts about guilt should be interpreted in favor of the driver, known as the presumption of innocence. Showing a DVR recording can help demonstrate what happened. If the footage reveals that the inspector’s gesture was not visible due to obstacles, and the driver remained restrained and polite, a warning is possible. If a fine is imposed, the video can be used in an appeal to contest the position.
What if the signal is unclear or misrepresented?
Drivers who fear halting in dim or isolated areas may suspect a threat. In such cases, experts recommend driving to the nearest police station and reporting the incident. It is advisable to call the traffic police hotline while en route and indicate the location and circumstances, stating the intent to reach the nearest permanent post.
Where is stopping not allowed and what happens then?
Stopping closer than five meters from an intersection, on tram tracks, or at pedestrian crossings is generally avoided. Obedience remains essential because the inspector bears responsibility for the situation, provided all lawful instructions are followed. The Management Regulations state that when stopping is required in prohibited areas, the officer takes measures on site to ensure road safety. In such locations stopping is reserved for actions needed to suppress crime, handle administrative offenses, carry out regulatory activities, or prevent real harm to road users. Patrol cars with light signals may indicate a stopping point. In normal terms, stopping in a place where stopping is prohibited often signals danger ahead, such as a multi-vehicle collision, and the stopping point is typically shown by a patrol car with flashing lights.