UNDERSTANDING MOTOR VEHICLE ACT PENALTIES: FINES AND CONSEQUENCES

Owning a vehicle is a dream for many. However, running it on the road can be a whole new level of hardship. With the increase in the number of vehicles on the road, the number of accidents has also skyrocketed. Therefore, to prevent any unfortunate event, the Parliament of India passed a bill called the Motor Vehicle Act. Let’s explore the fines and penalties under the motor vehicle act.

MOTOR VEHICLE ACT

The Motor Vehicle Act 1988 is an act to regulate the driving and ownership of vehicles on the road. It is aimed at preventing accidents, thefts, malpractices, etc. The act came into effect in July 1989. Over the years, the act underwent several amendments, with the latest one in February 2022 by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The amended act came into effect on April 1st, 2022. The recent amendments mostly extend the provisions of the previous act.

RECENT AMENDMENTS IN THE MOTOR VEHICLE ACT

There are two major amendments, and both are related to insurance claims. 

• The first amendment is related to Interim compensation. Section 140 to 144 has been eliminated and now there's no provision for interim compensation in the absence of no-fault liability.

• There are amendments in sections 145 to 164. These amendments are related to insurance claims in case of accidents, ownership, Hit and Run, Drink and drive, etc.

PENALTIES IN CASE OF VIOLATIONS

The recent act clearly specifies the penalties and fines for violations. In addition, the previous fines have been increased by at least tenfold.

• Driving without a license is a punishable offence, and the violator is liable to a fine of Rs. 5000 and/or imprisonment for up to three months.
• Exceeding the permitted speed limit will result in a fine of Rs. 1000 to Rs. 4000 and/or impounded license.
• Driving under the influence of either alcohol or drungs is a serious offence as it puts the lives of the driver and the surrounding people at risk. Violators will be charged with fines of Rs. 10,000 and/or imprisonment for six months on the first offence. The punishment will increase to Rs. 15,000 and two years imprisonment for subsequent offences.
• Rash driving or jumping red lights is punishable, and the offender is subject to a fine of Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000 and/or imprisonment for up to six months or even one year.
• For two-wheeler drivers, riding without a helmet incurs a fine of Rs. 1000 and/or impounded license.
• Riding an uninsured vehicle is also punishable, with a fine of Rs. 2000 or imprisonment for up to three months, or both.
• Passenger overloading is known to cause many accidents, making it punishable with a payment of Rs. 1000 per extra passenger.
• There are many motor vehicle offences committed by minors. If a minor is found to be engaged in any wrongdoing on the road, the owner of the vehicle or the guardian of the minor will have to pay a fine of Rs. 25,000 and may be liable to imprisonment for up to three years.
• Not providing a way to an ambulance or any other emergency vehicle is a serious offence, and the offender is consequently liable to a fine of Rs. 10,000.
• The Hit and Run case is also covered by the Motor Vehicle Act. In case a person is found guilty, they are liable to compensation of Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 1,00,000, depending on the fatality of the accident and the damage caused by it.

VEHICLE INSURANCE

Vehicle insurance is a type of insurance designed to provide financial stability and protection to the policyholder in the event of damage, accidents, or theft of their vehicle. The main objective of vehicle insurance is to protect the policyholder from bodily injury and financial loss due to accidents caused by rash driving, among other things. Insurance is mandatory for all vehicles under the motor vehicle act, and driving a vehicle without insurance can result in a fine of Rs.2000 or imprisonment for up to three months. Repeated offences may result in more severe punishment. To avoid fraudulent claims, it is important to follow all the rules and regulations mentioned by the insurance provider before opting for vehicle insurance.

Conclusion

It is safe to say that to avoid fines and punishments by law, as well as for your own and others' safety, it is absolutely mandatory to follow the guidelines given by the Government. Wearing a helmet or seatbelt, driving at the speed limit, having proper documents and insurance, safe driving, etc. are necessary for our safety and financial protection. Therefore, it is our responsibility to follow these guidelines and safety measures to avoid any kind of penalties.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

• What is the Motor Vehicle Act?

The Motor Vehicle Act is a bill passed by the Parliament of India for regulating the driving and ownership of vehicles on the road with the aim of preventing accidents, thefts, malpractices, etc.

• Is vehicle insurance mandatory?

Yes, vehicle insurance is obligatory for all vehicles under the Motor Vehicle Act, and driving a vehicle without insurance can lead to even imprisonment.

• What are some safety measures to follow to avoid penalties?

To avoid penalties, it is crucial to follow government-issued guidelines, wear a helmet or seatbelt, adhere to the speed limit, etc.

• Why is overboarding passengers a punishable offence?

It is a punishable offence because it puts too much pressure on vehicles and may cause disbalance, which results in accidents.

• What are the penalties for not providing a way to emergency vehicles?

Not providing a way to emergency vehicles is a serious offence that can result in a fine of Rs. 10,000.