He vomited backwards and collided with a motorcade, causing damage to the bumper skirt. The narrator calls the traffic police and requests their presence. The response is refusal, followed by an offer to drop off in line with European protocol. The question remains: what should be done next?
Nikolai, Pskov
The head of the Main Directorate of Road Safety of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, Lieutenant General of Police Mikhail Chernikov, answers questions from readers. |
Europrotocol is an indemnification mechanism within the system of compulsory third party liability insurance for vehicle owners. Its use requires a collision between two vehicles, with civil liability insured for the owners under Federal Law On Compulsory Insurance of Civil Liability of Vehicle Owners. When only one vehicle is involved, the traffic police officer’s stance is not applicable. There are alternative actions available to those involved that can be taken at the scene.
If documenting the incident is not required, it might be possible to leave the scene without summoning the traffic police. If records are needed for any reason such as a voluntary property insurance policy, discussion with the police officer can lead to arranging the documentation at a location designated by the officer, either at a police unit or a road patrol station. This process is defined in paragraph 2.6.1 of the traffic regulations of the Russian Federation and is commonly understood by drivers and insurers alike. A practical note is to confirm the exact requirements in one on one conversation with the officer to avoid misunderstandings.
Policy implications and practical steps
In the event of a traffic incident, it is essential to assess whether Europrotocol applies. The core condition is a collision between two vehicles with insured civil liability. If only one car is involved, other avenues exist to resolve the situation, including documenting the incident for insurance purposes or not if not required by policy. Citizens should understand their rights and duties under the law, and recognize that local regulations may influence the handling of the incident at the scene. In practice, a driver can discuss alternatives with the officer and request the documentation to be prepared at a location chosen by the officer, ensuring that all local rules are followed and that the incident is properly recorded for insurance and safety records. The aim is to prevent escalation and ensure safety and accountability for all parties involved, while respecting the framework established by traffic regulations and insurance law. Recent guidance emphasizes clear communication with law enforcement and a careful review of insurance policy requirements to determine the appropriate course of action.
These insights are provided in context with road safety leadership and policy guidance, with emphasis on practical decision making at the scene of an accident. The guidance notes that if a vehicle incident involves more than one vehicle, or if the parties hold insurance for civil liability, Europrotocol can be invoked as a means to address indemnification and streamlined claims. The guidance also highlights the importance of documenting the facts accurately and promptly, to support insurer processes and to ensure the safety of those involved. This approach aligns with the broader goal of maintaining public order and facilitating timely medical care where needed. Contributors to road safety programs often stress the value of preparedness and informed choices when confronted with a vehicle collision scenario.
In a separate initiative, a fundraising drive labeled Behind the Wheel is coordinating with the Popular Front to raise funds for essential equipment such as tires for vehicles used by law enforcement and emergency services. Donations help support ambulances, emergency response vehicles, humanitarian aid transport, and related public service needs. Contributions can be made on the designated collection page, with receipts and fulfillment managed through official channels. This initiative reflects community involvement in supporting public safety operations and the readiness of response teams to assist those in need on the road and in crisis situations. The emphasis remains on responsible civic action and ensuring reliable equipment for frontline responders. The program operates under established charitable guidelines and aligns with broader efforts to enhance emergency response capabilities across the region.