The new regulations, which took effect on September 1, 2023, were designed to ease daily life for car owners while aiming to improve road safety. This assessment comes from an interview featured on a major television outlet, with Vyacheslav Subbotin, a well-known automotive expert and founder of the GAZ Reid Sport team, sharing his perspectives.
Subbotin expressed support for removing fines in certain contexts, highlighting that many drivers previously faced penalties even when critical safety gear was missing from vehicles. He pointed out that items such as a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher can sometimes do more harm than good. According to him, in typical emergencies a vehicle may be engulfed in flames before any extinguisher can be effectively used, rendering the equipment less practical than it appears. He emphasized that the presence of such devices does not automatically translate into greater safety when every second counts.
The expert also noted a new restriction beginning in September preventing drivers from obstructing the windshield view with devices inside the car. This precautionary measure is aimed at reducing visual distractions and ensuring that drivers keep a clear line of sight on the road ahead. The emphasis, he observed, is on preserving visibility rather than adding clutter to the interior.
Earlier in the year, the State Duma proposed abolishing the transport tax as part of broader efforts to stabilize fuel prices. This proposal was reported by Public News Service, signaling a potential shift in the financial landscape for motorists who rely on gasoline daily.
In late August, Vladislav Davankov, who serves as Deputy Chairman of the State Duma, publicly requested Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin to consider waiving parking fees for newly registered Russian cars. The petition reflected a broader push to reduce operating costs for car owners, aligning with the government’s broader economic and consumer-friendly initiatives.
There were also reports of a road incident where a bus lacking brakes collided with seven other vehicles, underscoring the ongoing need for rigorous safety standards and robust vehicle maintenance in a rapidly evolving regulatory environment. Stories like this underscore why lawmakers, experts, and industry specialists continue to scrutinize the practical impact of new rules on daily driving habits and vehicle safety.
Overall, the regulatory changes from 2023 sought to streamline compliance for drivers while addressing real-world safety concerns. As more regulations come under review, automotive professionals stress the importance of balancing accountability with practical safety outcomes, ensuring that owners are not burdened by rules that do not translate into meaningful protection on the road. The conversation continues to evolve as authorities assess the effectiveness of these measures and explore additional steps to promote safer driving and more stable operating costs for motorists across the country.