According to the report published by the Times of India in the last quarter of 2023, the Indian auto industry has recorded overwhelming sales growth of 19% in the festive period of 2023, with vehicle sales reaching 3.793 million units. Last year, Indian auto retail sales touched 3.19 million units. The boom in car sales has increased the number of vehicles on the road, and the traffic police face a tough situation in regulating law and order. At the same time, people tend to violate traffic rules, thereby risking the safety of commoners. Let us shed light on common traffic violations in India and tips to avoid them:
Indian roads are always bustling with huge traffic, and the violation of traffic rules is a common sight. It has left the traffic authorities with the daunting task of keeping vigil on such offenders and penalizing them. If you drive a car in India, you should be aware of these most common traffic violations for your and others’ safety. Also, by avoiding these violations, you can save yourself from getting penalized by the traffic police.
Here are some tips to avoid common traffic violations in India:
Red Light Signal Jumping:
It is one of the most common traffic offences in India. Ignoring the traffic signals may seem like a petty offence, but the consequences can be severe. Jumping a red light can lead to severe accidents. Even if you are in a hurry, do follow traffic signals. Red light jumping will also attract a maximum penalty of up to Rs 5,000 depending on the severity of the offence.
How to avoid red light signal jumping?
Pay attention to the traffic lights when you are driving
If there is a yellow signal, slow down your car and be prepared to stop
When the signal is red, stop well before the stop line
Do not stop the vehicle on the ‘Zebra Crossing’ as it may obstruct pedestrians
Crossing the Speed Limit:
Overspeeding is something we often see on Indian roads, especially on highways. Crossing the speed limit may result in a fatal accident. Overspeeding not only puts your life in danger but also poses a threat to other road users. Overspeeding will attract a penalty of 1,000-2,000 rupees depending upon the type of vehicle.
How to avoid overspeeding?
Pay attention to the speed limit signboards when you are driving, especially on highways.
High-speed driving may be thrilling but do remember that it can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. It puts your life as well as others’ lives at risk.
Switch on the high-speed warning system in your car (if available) to warn you if you drive over the speed limit.
Drunk Driving or Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicated Substances:
It is one of the most serious traffic offences. Driving in a drunken state can trigger accidents leading to severe consequences. If you are found committing this offence, the competent traffic police officer is authorized to challan your vehicle and may attract a fine of up to Rs 10,000 and or 6 months in prison, Rs 15,000 and or 2 years in prison in case of repetition of the violation.
How to avoid driving under the influence of intoxicated substances?
Never get behind the wheel if you are under the influence of any intoxicated substance. Instead, look for alternative transport options such as cabs, rickshaws, etc.
If you drive out alone, avoid drinking alcohol.
Ensure that a non-drinking driver accompanies you if you plan to drink alcohol when you go out.
Talking/Texting on the Phone While Driving:
With the advent of smartphones and tablets, we are glued to the screen all the time, even when driving. Using a mobile phone while driving can distract the driver, causing them to take their eyes off the road and lose focus. This can result in accidents, which can cause serious injuries and fatalities.
How to avoid using your phone while driving?
It’s better to put the phone in ‘Silent’ mode when you’re driving.
If you have to make an important call or need to respond to a text, park the car on the side of the road and then proceed.
Do not watch visual content on your phone while driving.
Not Wearing a Seatbelt:
If you are a beginner driver, you may tend to forget to buckle your seatbelt while driving the car. Driving without wearing a seatbelt is an offence. Moreover, a seatbelt is designed for your safety. If you wear it correctly, it can protect you from severe injuries in case of an accident. If caught driving without wearing a seatbelt, the traffic police can impose a fine of up to Rs 1,000.
How to avoid driving without wearing a seatbelt?
As soon as you get into your car, make a habit of buckling up the seatbelt even before you start the engine.
Wear the seatbelt properly around your waist and chest.
Ask the passengers to fasten their seatbelts as soon as they get in the car.
Driving Without Valid Insurance Coverage:
Car insurance is mandatory in India. According to The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, all motor vehicles need to have third-party motor insurance cover. Driving your car without motor insurance or an invalid insurance policy is an offence and may attract a fine of up to Rs 2,000. In case of repeated offences, the penalty goes up to Rs 4,000.
How to avoid driving without active car insurance?
Purchase at least a third-party car insurance policy when you buy a new car. However, a Comprehensive policy is recommended for broad coverage.
Buy a multi-year car insurance plan to avoid the hassle of yearly renewals.
Do remember the due date of the policy and renew the car insurance plan before it lapses.
Driving Without Valid Documents Related to the Vehicle:
Not carrying valid documents while driving your car can attract penalties. Driving without a valid Driving Licence (DL) will cost you a challan of Rs 5,000. Similarly, failing to produce the Registration Certificate (RC) when the authorities demand results in a fine of up to Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000 in case of repeated offence. If your car does not have a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate, you may have to pay a fine of Rs 500.
How to avoid driving without documents?
Always keep a copy of all the essential documents in your car.
Upload the soft copies of the documents to your smartphone or apps like Digilocker.
Renew the documents (DL, RC, Insurance cover, etc.) on time before they expire.
The writer is a Government Law Officer, Department of Law, Justice & Parliamentary Affairs, UT of J&K. He can be reached at kh********@***oo.com
Common Traffic Violations in India: Punishments and Tips to Avoid Them
