Authorities once again target right-hand drive cars: MVD and Ministry of Transport begin risk assessment

Amidst growing imports of cars from Japan, the state is studying the impact of right-hand drive on road safety

Russian authorities have begun a comprehensive assessment of risks associated with the operation of right-hand drive vehicles. This was reported by the Ministry of Transport, clarifying that the work is being carried out jointly with the MVD, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and FSUE "NAMI". The study became part of the federal plan for implementing the road safety improvement strategy, approved by the government in May 2026.

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According to the document, specialists must analyze the impact of right-hand drive vehicles on accident rates and determine whether additional regulatory measures are required for such vehicles.

The topic has become particularly relevant amidst the ongoing growth of car imports from Japan. Despite increased recycling fees and changes in import rules, right-hand drive cars remain an important part of the Russian car fleet, especially in the regions of the Far East and Siberia.

According to data cited in the road safety strategy, more than 2.5 million right-hand drive vehicles are registered in Russia today. This accounts for about 3.6% of the country's entire car fleet.

At the same time, the authorities are not yet talking about any restrictions or prohibitions. The focus is precisely on collecting statistics and assessing existing risks. In the future, the results of the study may form the basis for new recommendations for driver training or additional requirements for the operation of such vehicles.

The issue of right-hand drive car safety has been discussed for several years. The main complaints are traditionally related to difficulties when overtaking on two-lane roads and limited visibility in right-hand traffic conditions. However, proponents of such cars point to the high technical condition of imported vehicles and significant experience in their operation in Russian regions.

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