On the surface, the Moscow Ring Road, known as MKAD, appears to be a well-thought-out transportation artery. It features multiple lanes, high speed limits, and a network of interchanges designed to keep traffic flowing smoothly. Yet several voices warn that the road’s practical safety depends far more on supporting infrastructure than on sheer speed. Anton Shaparin, the deputy head of the National Automobile Union, points to a critical gap: the ring road often lacks sufficient acceleration lanes. This deficiency can create risky moments for drivers entering the highway flow, especially when leaving a gas station or making a quick merge onto the main roadway. That one simple action can increase the odds of a collision if neighboring vehicles do not have enough time or space to react [Citation: National Automobile Union].
Beyond the challenge of merging, there is another issue that tends to surface after incidents on high-speed roads. Vehicles that stop at the scene may not move promptly, waiting for traffic police arrival. The hesitation to clear the roadway can trigger secondary crashes as other drivers fail to anticipate the stopped or slow-moving vehicles ahead. Such delays underscore why a rapid response plan and proper lane-blocking procedures are crucial for highway safety [Citation: Izvestia].
Shaparin also highlights wear on the road surface as a long-standing contributor to danger on the MKAD. Over the years, regular traffic has worn down the asphalt, producing ruts and uneven patches that can surprise drivers, especially at higher speeds. In turn, these surface irregularities increase the risk of loss of control, vehicle damage, and sudden braking in heavy traffic. The cumulative effect of these surface defects is a growing concern among motorists who rely on the MKAD for efficient travel during peak hours [Citation: Izvestia].