In a recent discussion with Izvestia, Evgeny Ufimtsev, who oversees the All-Russian Association of Insurers (VSS) as its president, outlined ambitious plans for next year. The organization envisions a system that verifies the presence of OSAGO policies using traffic surveillance cameras across the Russian Federation. This approach would complement existing verification methods and expand the reach of policy enforcement beyond traditional checks at service points or roadside stops.
Ufimtsev noted that the VSS has repeatedly proposed leveraging camera networks to confirm that drivers carry valid OSAGO coverage. The idea has lingered in pilot stages and experimental trials, but the coalition believes it is ready for broader deployment. The shift aims to create a more reliable, automated layer of compliance that reduces evasion and strengthens consumer protections for all road users.
According to the insurer leader, a sweeping rollout of policy verification via cameras is planned for the coming year. He warned that drivers who lack OSAGO coverage could face penalties captured by the automated system once the program reaches full implementation. The forecast suggests a real change in enforcement dynamics, moving toward continuous, camera-based monitoring rather than periodic checks alone.
Beyond enforcement, the VSS is in talks with the Central Bank of Russia to discuss extending certain measures intended to support insurers into 2023, along with exploring several innovations. Among the initiatives under consideration are adjustments to repair timelines and the regulatory status of used spare parts in OSAGO repairs. These measures aim to streamline claims processing, improve repair efficiency, and potentially reduce costs for consumers and carriers alike.
Ufimtsev emphasized that extending the OSAGO repair window from 30 days to 60 days could be necessary in the near term. He argued that longer repair periods would better accommodate the realities of modern repair shops and the availability of parts, which can sometimes be constrained. His position reflects a pragmatic view of the market dynamics, acknowledging that keeping vehicles off the road for too long is economically burdensome and could contribute to a shortage of essential components.
The discussion also touched on the potential use of used spare parts, a topic that has sparked debate within the industry and among policyholders. Allowing refurbished or second-hand components could help address supply gaps and lower repair costs, while still meeting safety and regulatory standards. Advocates contend that properly certified used parts can deliver reliable performance without compromising vehicle safety or consumer protection.
In related developments, prior signals from St. Petersburg included legislative initiatives aimed at tightening penalties for drivers who do not maintain an OSAGO policy. This broader policy stance underscores the push to ensure all drivers are adequately insured, reinforcing the system’s integrity and reducing risk for insurers and the public alike. The interplay between stricter enforcement and practical adjustments to repair procedures reflects a comprehensive approach to managing the OSAGO ecosystem in the years ahead.