Everything related to Traffic Laws in India

India accounts for 10% of worldwide road fatalities, making road safety responsibility highly essential for everyone. Aside from a unique driving skill, Indian roads also require an understanding of the traffic rules and regulations that govern these chaotic roads. Thousands of commuters from metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, etc, feel distressed due to this menace every day. The reasons behind the menace are the increasing number of cars on the roads, extremely poor road management, poor quality roads, etc.

Basic Traffic Rules / Regulations in India

It is highly unlikely that you are unaware of the basic traffic rule. However, let us have a recap so that we won rsquo t skip any of the important ones. The traffic rules require you to follow traffic signals, road signs, specified speed limits, lane discipline, and boycott drunk driving. The imperative use of seat belts, and helmets, and the forbid the use of mobile phones during driving.

Effects of any Violations

The consequences for disobeying these basic traffic rules of India range from monetary fines and license suspension to imprisonment, depending upon the gravity of the offence. These penalties are specified in the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, which was recently revised in 2019, that also introduced the concept of traffic challans. These penalties may fluctuate across states.

Some Important Violations

Certain specific violations that you must pay extra attention to are:

• Speed limit to abide by:

India rsquo s diverse roads have varying speed limits, from brisk highways to measured urban streets. Violating this leads to consequences, from fines to potential license suspension or imprisonment.

• Lane to drive on:

Stick left, overtake carefully from the right, and prevent traffic chaos and accidents.

• Drunk Driving Check:

A strict prohibition shadows drinking and driving. The permissible blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit serves as a guiding note, emphasising that intoxicated driving can result in fines, license suspension, and imprisonment.

• Safety Measures:

Seat belts secure both driver and passengers. For two-wheeler riders, a helmet is a standard precautionary measure to avoid danger to one's own life.

• Use of Mobile while driving:

Mobile phones should not distract drivers from safe driving. Using phones without hands-free devices is a traffic offence, with repercussions extending from penalties to fines.

• Parking requisites:

Park only in designated areas where it is permissible, respecting regulations to avoid traffic fines or towing.

• Protection for School Buses:

School buses transporting future generations must follow speed limits, proper signage, and responsible driving practices.

• Legal Documentation:

Always carry your vehicle rsquo s RTO registration with the vehicle. Also, obtain motor insurance, including mandatory third-party liability coverage for lawful road travel.

Fine amount imposed by the government

What is a Challan?

The issuance of a traffic challan, an official document, signifies a violation of traffic laws. The beginning of an electronic challan system has accompanied the change in the system, making the process more efficient and transparent. You can also use challan online check to find out the fine on your vehicle. This e-challan serves as the channel through which fines for committed offences are communicated.

What to do when you are pulled over?

There might come an occasion wherein you are intercepted or asked to pull over by a traffic official. Here, it is mandatory for you to halt the vehicle and furnish the necessary documents. An understanding of your own rights enables you to explain any legitimate reasons for the violation, and compliance with the official rsquo s orders is essential. Recklessness of these principles may lead to fines, license confiscation, or judicial proceedings.

Get a better understanding of your rights on the road, especially at the time when you are stopped by traffic police, by visiting Stopped by Traffic Police? Know your Rights! | Motor Accident Law Guide (lawrato.com)

However, there might come a situation when things might go south. For such times, LawRato enables you to Consult the best Motor Accident Lawyers/advocates in India , who can not only handle complex situations of traffic violations but also help you with motor accident claims .

Powers of a Traffic Official

Traffic officials wield the privilege to demand and scrutinise driver rsquo s licenses and indispensable vehicle documents. They retain the authority to impound licenses, seize vehicles, and effectuate arrests without a warrant for specific infractions. The laws make sure to provide them with a position where following their instructions isn rsquo t just a suggestion rather, it rsquo s necessary.

What to do when harassed by a Traffic Official?

If faced with harassment by a traffic official, remember:

1. Never succumb to illegal demands.

2. Allow license impoundment if necessary, avoiding bribery.

3. Note down the official's details for potential complaints.

4. Lodge a formal complaint with the traffic police, detailing the incident and the involved official.

FAQs

Q1. I blocked a parking spot. How to avoid fines next time? Sidestep penalties by parking smartly. Stick to designated spots, mind the rules, and ensure you are not hindering traffic. Q2. I got caught for speeding and got fined. Can I challenge it? Yes, challenging a speeding challan is a hassle, but if you did not speed, gather proof like photos or witnesses.

Q3. Can a traffic police arrest me without a warrant? Yes. If you are caught with serious violations, like reckless driving, a uniformed officer can arrest you on the spot without any warrant.

Q4. Speeding fines differ on highways and in the city. Yes, penalties do vary. Going over the limit on highways is usually costlier than in the city.

Q5. Who can collect fines for traffic challans on the road? A Traffic Police of or above the rank of Sub-inspector can collect fines for traffic violation. Make sure to collect the receipt generated by the challan collection machine.

Advocate Chikirsha Mohanty

4.0 | 2+ user ratings Greater Kailash - 1, Delhi
5 years

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