---
title: "Green light does not grant the right to chaos: how a traffic jam at an intersection threatens a fine of 510 hryvnias"
description: "Green light does not grant the right to chaos: why entering an intersection in a traffic jam threatens a fine of 510 hryvnias? 🚦🚗 We analyze the rules that save us from blocking traffic."
date: 2026-08-02T04:16:00.000Z
lang: en
url: https://xab.info/en/posts/green-light-does-not-grant-right-to-chaos-traffic-jam-fine-510-hryvnias
tags: [ukraine, traffic-rules, pdd, rbc-ukraine, fines]
publisher: "XAB.info"
---

# Green light does not grant the right to chaos: how a traffic jam at an intersection threatens a fine of 510 hryvnias

![Heavy traffic jam at an intersection: cars are stuck in congestion, a cyclist passes by](https://xab.info/media/2026/08/02/shtraf-za-probku-na-perekrestke-pravila-pdd/shtraf-za-probku-na-perekrestke-pravila-pdd-1.webp)

Every driver knows the situation: the traffic light turns green, but ahead lies a solid wall of cars. Instinct urges you to move, but it is precisely at this moment that many make a mistake that can paralyze the entire intersection. RBC-Ukraine, citing the Rules of the Road and the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses, explains why a green signal is not an absolute permission to proceed.

### The "Clear Space" Rule

The essence of the conflict is simple: the driver sees a green light but does not see free space beyond the intersection. Section 16.4 of the Traffic Rules contains a direct prohibition: you must not enter the intersection if a traffic jam ahead prevents you from leaving it.

This means that even with a green signal on, the driver must assess the situation. If the car cannot pass unimpeded and will stop in the middle of the intersection, starting to move is prohibited. The driver must ensure there is enough space behind the intersection to complete the maneuver.

### The Domino Effect and Traffic Blockage

Why is this rule so important? If a car gets stuck at the intersection, it will inevitably block traffic in the perpendicular direction. As soon as the traffic light signal changes, streams of cars will collide, and traffic in several directions will be paralyzed.

Such a situation turns an ordinary jam into chaos, where drivers who have the legal right to pass are forced to stand still due to the mistake of one road user. This is why it is critically important to ensure there is a "pocket" for maneuvering before entering.

### Fine for Violation

Violating the rules for crossing intersections entails administrative liability. According to Part 2 of Article 122 of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses, entering an intersection during a traffic jam is punishable by a fine of 510 hryvnias.

This fine is intended not just to penalize the driver but to discipline road users to avoid blocking urban arteries. Drivers should remember: a green light is a signal to move only if the path is clear.