The gathering at the round table, arranged by the Public Chamber, focused on traffic regulations that have remained unchanged for a year and a half.
From 1 January 2021 it is prohibited to alter the traffic rules. Instead, the new document must be published in its entirety, as reported by Izvestia quoting Alexander Kholodov, deputy chairman of the Committee of the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation on security and cooperation with the PMC.
There have been substantial shifts since 1994, when the current text of the SDA was adopted. Some of these changes are reflected in the rules themselves, while others are not. In gradual fashion, the regulations have grown more complex, and a comprehensive revision is now warranted.
Changes are often seen as making the text denser and more technical, argues Vladislav Koptev, a consultant in the traffic management department of the Ministry of Transport. The risk, he notes, is that the wording becomes heavy, intended primarily for specialists, with participial and adverbial phrases creeping into the prose. Yet other voices call for targeted alterations that would streamline the document, making it clearer not only to experts but also to younger readers and non-specialists.
There is broad agreement that the traffic regulations should address several contemporary concerns. Among them are rules for personal mobility devices, a closer examination of repeated traffic incidents, the completion of pedestrian safety provisions, a prohibition on the use of mobile devices while driving, and a concrete approach to drone-related issues. Each of these topics requires dialogue that includes broad public participation, according to Alexander Kholodov, who emphasizes the importance of inclusive discussions in shaping future rules.
Experts contend that updates must balance technical precision with accessibility. They argue for a framework that preserves the rigor needed by professionals while presenting the essential guidance in plain language for everyday drivers, parents, students, and small business owners who rely on safe and predictable traffic norms. The aim is to reduce ambiguity, clarify responsibilities, and ensure that safety measures translate into real-world behavior on roads and sidewalks alike.
Some participants suggest incremental adjustments to specific provisions rather than sweeping revisions, proposing a strategy that first streamlines the most misunderstood or frequently contested sections. Others advocate for a more comprehensive reform that reorganizes the structure of the regulations, making cross-references easier to follow and aligning the rules with current technologies and urban transportation patterns. The debate highlights the tension between maintaining historical continuity and embracing necessary modernization to reflect new tools and mobility forms that have emerged in recent years. The consensus appears to be that the process should be transparent, with clear milestones and opportunities for public input at multiple stages of development.
The discussion also touches on harmonization with international best practices where applicable. While local conditions and the specific road environments must guide the final wording, there is sentiment that certain universal principles—such as prioritizing vulnerable road users, enforcing seat belt and helmet use where appropriate, and ensuring predictable enforcement standards—should anchor any future revisions. The goal is not merely to adjust language but to elevate safety outcomes and practical compliance across the spectrum of road users, from daily commuters to occasional drivers and visitors who may be less familiar with the rules.
In this evolving landscape, the role of public engagement becomes crucial. Stakeholders from every segment of society are invited to participate in forums, consultations, and comment periods that will shape the trajectory of traffic governance in the years ahead. The overarching objective is to craft a set of rules that is clear, enforceable, and flexible enough to accommodate new forms of mobility while preserving consistent expectations for behavior on public roads. By embracing a collaborative approach, the authorities aim to build trust, improve road safety outcomes, and reduce the friction that often accompanies regulatory changes. The ongoing conversations reflect a shared belief that better traffic rules can contribute to safer streets and more confident travel for all members of the community.