According to an **official statement from the Russian State Traffic Inspectorate**, a pervasive question plagues many drivers when navigating pedestrian crossings, often referred to as 'zebra crossings'. The scenario is familiar: you stop, allow a pedestrian to cross, and as soon as they pass your car's hood, you immediately accelerate. But what follows for many is a moment of anxiety: will this action result in a fine? This pressing question, a source of considerable stress for numerous motorists, has finally received a clear and definitive answer from a representative of the Traffic Police. Where exactly lies the demarcation line between properly yielding to a pedestrian and committing a violation? The traffic regulations unequivocally address this uncertainty. The rules explicitly state that a driver is obligated to 'yield to a pedestrian,' which fundamentally means 'not creating obstacles for them.' This instruction is the pivotal point of the entire issue. It is not, in fact, necessary for the driver to wait until the pedestrian has completely vanished from sight or reached the opposite sidewalk. Instead, you are permitted to resume movement if the pedestrian has already crossed your lane and is continuing their journey in the oncoming lane, or has moved beyond the immediate path of your vehicle. The crucial condition here is that your actions must not, under any circumstances, compel the pedestrian to alter their speed or direction. This nuanced understanding is key to lawful and safe driving at crosswalks. Conversely, the regulations clearly define what constitutes a violation: if you begin to move and this action causes the pedestrian to slow down, stop abruptly, or even jump out of the way, this is deemed a direct infringement of the rules. Such behavior can subject the driver to a significant fine, potentially up to 2500 rubles, underscoring the gravity with which these pedestrian safety regulations are enforced. This stipulation emphasizes the need for drivers to exercise extreme caution and make a judicious assessment of distance and speed when interacting with pedestrians on the road, prioritizing their uninterrupted passage. However, how can an inspector definitively prove that you created an obstacle? This is where the subtleties come into play. The official stance is straightforward: if the pedestrian has safely crossed and exited the roadway, you are free to proceed. Yet, in practical enforcement, an inspector might perceive a violation if they deem your movement to have been too sudden or premature. In such contentious situations, a 'dashcam' or 'car video recorder' becomes your most invaluable ally. It provides an objective and irrefutable recording of the incident, clearly documenting the distance between your vehicle and the pedestrian, and the actions of both parties. This evidence can either exonerate you or confirm a violation, making it an essential tool for dispute resolution. It is vital to remember that these rules are not one-sided; responsibility is shared among all road users. Pedestrians are also obligated to ensure their safety before stepping onto a crosswalk. Regrettably, this aspect of the rule is frequently disregarded. Therefore, the golden rule for drivers is paramount: when approaching any 'zebra crossing,' significantly reduce your speed in advance and be prepared for a complete stop at any moment. This isn't merely a recommendation; it's a critical driving practice essential for ensuring everyone's safety. In the unfortunate event of an accident occurring directly on a crosswalk, the fault almost invariably falls upon the driver. This reflects the absolute priority given by law to pedestrian safety within these designated areas. However, if an impact occurs outside the crosswalk, the investigation becomes considerably more complex, and every minute detail takes on paramount importance in determining liability. The precise location, speed, visibility, and actions of both parties will be meticulously scrutinized, making each piece of information critical to the outcome. This distinction highlights the protected status of crosswalks and the elevated duty of care expected from drivers within them. The conclusion is both simple and unambiguous: you are not required to wait until the pedestrian vanishes completely from your field of vision. Nevertheless, you must initiate movement smoothly and gradually, and only when you are absolutely certain that you will not cause any alarm or necessitate any sudden action from the pedestrian. The primary objective is not merely to avoid a fine, but to guarantee the safety of everyone on the road. Is it not? This official clarification from the Traffic Police not only provides legal guidance but also fosters a culture of safe and conscientious driving that prioritizes human life and well-being. It is a call for prudence and mutual respect between drivers and pedestrians to create a safer traffic environment for all.