When a vehicle operator commits violations during engine operation and may also fall short of meeting secondary safety or structural requirements of the vehicle, there is no automatic fine. Instead, the offender can receive a warning or a verbal remark from the traffic police inspector. This approach focuses on corrective measures rather than punitive penalties for minor infractions, especially in contexts that do not compromise public safety or the functioning of essential services.
The framework for this practice is outlined in the Code of Administrative Violations of the Russian Federation, specifically provisions that authorize discretionary exemption or leniency in cases judged to be of minimal administrative impact. It is suggested that leadership within the Ministry of the Interior endorse and promote such discretion. A directive to territorial departments calls for inspectors to apply leniency more frequently for minor violations, consistent with the cited legal provisions and the aim of reducing unnecessary fines for small infractions.
According to the head of the Chief Directorate for road safety and movement within the Ministry of Internal Affairs, statements emphasize that these instructions should guide decisions when handling minor traffic violations related to the transport of essential goods. The goal is to support the steady operation of the economy by ensuring that routine deliveries of consumer goods, agricultural products, industrial materials, and other vital items proceed with minimal disruption, while maintaining safety standards. The official highlighted the practical benefit of a warning in preserving supply chains and avoiding penalties for trivial mistakes that do not endanger road users.
Please note that the cancellation of fines under this policy applies only to freight transport. Drivers operating regular passenger vehicles, especially when any vehicle component is defective or the vehicle fails to meet safety requirements, remain subject to appropriate penalties in line with existing regulations.