Kirov drivers have been warned about fines and penalties for splashing pedestrians from puddles.

      A member of the Public Chamber of Russia's commission on public expertise of legislative initiatives, Yevgeny Masharov, explained the responsibility that drivers face if they intentionally splash pedestrians from puddles. If it is proven that the driver deliberately drove into a puddle to splash a person, their actions may be classified as petty hooliganism (Article 20.1 of the Administrative Offenses Code of the Russian Federation). This can result in a fine of 500 to 1,000 rubles or administrative arrest for up to 15 days, as reported by RBC.

      However, the consequences can be more serious. If clothing or other items are damaged as a result of the splashing, and the damage exceeds 5,000 rubles, criminal liability arises. In this case, the driver faces a fine of up to 40,000 rubles, and in aggravating circumstances (for example, hooligan motives) — up to two years of imprisonment.

      In practice, proving intent is difficult, but it is possible — with the help of witnesses and recordings from surveillance cameras. The victim is advised to immediately file a report with the police, providing the vehicle's details and eyewitness accounts.

      In the coming days, rain and thunderstorms are forecasted in the region. Drivers should remember: even if there was no malicious intent, careless driving in wet weather can lead to serious consequences, especially if a pedestrian slips and gets injured.