In Kazakhstan, starting from May 6, 2024, a decree of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan came into effect, introducing changes to the Rules of the Road.
Under the new regulations, the following speed limits are allowed in populated areas:
- For vehicles: up to 60 km/h, except for buses and special traffic modes indicated by corresponding road signs, but not exceeding 90 km/h;
- For buses: up to 50 km/h;
- For vehicles in residential areas and courtyard territories: up to 20 km/h.
Now, passing on a yellow traffic light is allowed only if the green light did not flash immediately before it goes off.
It is stipulated that a driver who crosses the stop line on a permissive traffic light can proceed in the intended direction regardless of the traffic light signals at the intersection exit.
Drivers are allowed to continue driving when a traffic controller raises their hand or when the yellow signal is on in cases where the traffic light operation does not include the green signal flashing just before it goes off.
When turning left at intersections, the passing of vehicles from the oncoming direction is done from the right side, except in cases of intersections with special geometric parameters that do not allow such a maneuver.
Regardless of the turning radius, a U-turn is allowed provided that traffic safety is ensured and it does not obstruct other vehicles.
It is also clarified in the rules that a turn should be executed in a way that the vehicle does not end up on the opposite side of the road when exiting the intersection. The turn should be made within the lane corresponding to the one occupied during the maneuver.
A new traffic light signal has been introduced. The green "+" symbol signal informs vehicles from the oncoming direction that a red signal is on, prohibiting them from passing.
When the green "+" symbol is off, it indicates to vehicles from the oncoming direction that a green signal allowing passage is on.
Additionally, new road signs have been introduced for electric cars, electric scooters, and pedestrians.
- "Movement of motorcycles prohibited": Movement of motorcycles and mopeds is prohibited;
- "Movement of vehicles with trailers prohibited": Movement of trucks and tractors with trailers of any type is prohibited, as well as towing of mechanical vehicles;
- "Cycling prohibited": Movement of bicycles, electric scooters, and small electric vehicles is prohibited;
- "Electric scooter riding prohibited": Only electric scooters are prohibited from moving.
Furthermore, the Rules now include a new type of road marking and the sign "Diagonal Pedestrian Crossing".
