A bicycle accident in Moscow: what to do next
Record the circumstances and do not rush into an informal settlement.
The first minutes
Russian rules define a road accident as an incident involving moving transport that causes injury or damage — Traffic Rules, 1.2.
Stop, mark the scene and preserve related objects until the applicable procedure allows movement — 2.5. Do not stand in traffic for photographs. Immediate safety comes first.
If somebody is injured, call ambulance services and police and give first aid within your skills — 2.6. Call 112. Give the location, number of injured people and immediate dangers. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions. Avoid moving an injured person unless needed to escape an immediate threat.
Record the scene
From a safe place, photograph positions, vehicle plates, signs, traces and damage. Collect witness and participant contact details. This is practical advice to help preserve what happened.
For property-only accidents obstructing traffic, clear the carriageway after recording positions, traces and damage — 2.6.1. With injuries, the different rule requires clearance when other vehicles cannot pass, also after recording the scene — 2.6.
The police-free Europrotocol insurance procedure is not suitable for a car–bicycle collision. Its conditions require two vehicles whose owners’ liability is covered by compulsory motor insurance — Federal Law 40-FZ, article 11.1. Contact police for reporting instructions. Ask for language assistance if you need it.
Afterwards
Seek medical assessment for a head impact, pain or feeling unwell. Symptoms may appear later. Keep medical records and receipts. Do not sign an account you cannot read or disagree with.
Compensation is governed in part by Civil Code articles 1064 and 1079; liability depends on the circumstances. Get legal advice for a dispute. Have the bike inspected before riding again: workshops.
What to do now
- Save 112 and an emergency contact on your phone.
- After a collision, prioritise safety and help, then evidence and reporting.
- Keep medical paperwork and arrange bike inspection and legal help where needed.
Updated: October 2026