Navigating the roads comes with several responsibilities, and one crucial aspect is understanding the types of traffic challans. A challan is a ticket that follows when traffic rules are broken. Each challan corresponds to a specific rule, and understanding the many types of challan that are issued by traffic authorities can help you avoid fines. From improper parking to speeding, various traffic violations lead to different types of challan.
In this blog, we will walk you through the different types of challans and violations, ensuring you understand the fundamentals, and enabling you to be a responsible road user.
Also Read : Process for Paying a Challan for Riding a Two-Wheeler without a Helmet
Types of Challan
The recent changes in The Motor Vehicles Act, of 2019 have brought about substantial increases in traffic violation fines. These more stringent rules mean that breaking traffic regulations comes with much higher penalties.
To simplify this information, we've prepared a table showcasing various traffic challans and the corresponding fines for each. Take a closer look at the table below for a better understanding of the old penalties and the changes:
Traffic Violation | Updated Penalty (From September 2019) | Old Penalty |
General Offence (e.g., improper number plate, illegal parking) | First time: ₹500Second time: ₹1,500 | First time: ₹100 Second time: ₹300 |
Not Obeying Orders/Not Sharing Information | ₹2,000 | ₹500 |
Not Following Road Rules | ₹500-₹1,000 | Nil |
Driving Without a Valid Driving Licence | ₹5,000 | ₹500 |
Driving an Unauthorised Vehicle Without a Valid Licence | ₹5,000 | ₹1,000 |
Driving After Disqualification | ₹10,000 | ₹500 |
Overspeeding | Light Motor Vehicle: ₹1,000-₹2,000Medium Vehicle: ₹2,000-₹4,000 | ₹400 |
Rash/Dangerous Driving | First time: Imprisonment of 6 months to 1 year and/or fine of ₹1,000-₹5,000 Second time: Imprisonment of up to 2 years and/or fine of up to ₹10,000 | Nil |
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol | First time: Fine of ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months Second time: Fine of ₹15,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 2 years | ₹2,000 |
Driving in Mentally/Physically Unfit State | First time: ₹1,000 Second time: ₹2,000 | First time: ₹200 Second time: ₹500 |
Driving Without Valid Motor Insurance | First time: Fine of ₹2,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months Second time: Fine of ₹4,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months | A fine of ₹1,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months |
Illegal Racing and Over Speeding | First time: Fine of ₹5,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months Second time: Fine of ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 1 year | ₹500 |
Driving Oversized Vehicle | ₹5,000 | Nil |
Accident-related Offences | First time: Fine of ₹5,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months Second time: Fine of ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 1 year | Nil |
Driving Without a Valid Registration Certificate | First time: ₹5,000 Second time: ₹10,000 | Nil |
Driving Without Permit | A fine of ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of up to 6 months | Up to ₹5,000 |
Using Mobile Phone While Driving | ₹5,000 | ₹1,000 |
Overloading Vehicle | ₹20,000 (₹2,000 per extra tonne) | ₹2,000 (₹1,000 per extra tonne) |
Overloading Passengers | ₹1,000 per extra passenger | Nil |
Overloading Two-Wheeler | Disqualification of DL for 3 months and ₹2,000 penalty | ₹100 |
Not Wearing a Helmet While Riding Two-Wheeler | Disqualification of DL for 3 months and ₹1,000 penalty | ₹100 |
Not Wearing Seatbelt While Driving | ₹1,000 | ₹100 |
Not Giving Way for Emergency Vehicles | ₹10,000 and/or imprisonment of 6 months | Nil |
Offences Committed by Juveniles | Imprisonment of 3 years and ₹25,000 penalty (Vehicle owner/guardian also guilty) | Nil |
Offence Related to Enforcing Officers (e.g., Offering bribe) | Twice the penalty under the relevant section | Nil |
Aggregator Offences (Licence-related) | ₹25,000-₹1 lakh | Nil |
Using Horn in Silent Zone | First time: ₹2,000 Second time: ₹4,000 | Nil |
Travelling Without Ticket in Public Transport | ₹500 | ₹200 |
Breaking Down the New Traffic Fines (Effective Since September 2019)
Remember, when you're driving, it's not just your safety but also your wallet that's on the line! Let's take a closer look at the recent changes in traffic violation fines according to the New Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. This quick overview gives you the lowdown on the major updates:
- No Licence, Big Fine
- If you're caught driving or riding without a valid licence, the penalty has gone up dramatically
- It used to be just ₹500, but now it's a hefty ₹5,000
- No Insurance, No Way
- Not having valid motor insurance now comes with a higher penalty
- The fine is now ₹2,000 (or ₹4,000 for repeated offences), up from the old ₹1,000
- Drunk Driving, Heavy Penalty
- Getting behind the wheel after a drink is now way more expensive
- For the first-time offence, you'll have to pay ₹10,000 and could even go to jail for up to 6 months
- If you do it again, the fine jumps to ₹15,000 and the jail time goes up to 2 years
- Race and Speed, Pay the Price
- Racing on the roads or speeding now costs a lot more
- The fine has gone from ₹500 to ₹5,000, and you might be in jail for up to 3 months
- If you do it a second time, the penalty goes up to ₹10,000 and you could spend up to a year in jail
- Juvenile Offences, Big Trouble
- If someone underage breaks the rules, it's not just them who's in trouble
- The new rules say that the vehicle owner or guardian could be fined ₹25,000 and the young offender might even be locked up for 3 years
The Bottom Line
In the ever-changing landscape of traffic fines, the New Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 has introduced stricter penalties to enhance road safety and discipline. These revisions aim to deter traffic violations by significantly raising fines for offences such as driving without proper documentation, being under the influence, speeding, and more. All road users need to stay well-informed about these changes to avoid hefty fines and legal complications.
By adhering to the amended rules and regulations and exercising responsible driving habits, individuals can contribute to safer roads and a better traffic environment. Remember, keeping up with the rules is not just a legal obligation but a vital step towards safeguarding lives on the road. Stay safe!
FAQs:
Q. What is a traffic challan?
A traffic challan is a penalty imposed on individuals who violate road rules or regulations.
Q. How are traffic challans issued?
Traffic challans are issued by law enforcement officers who observe violations, or through automated systems like cameras for red-light offences or speeding.
Q. Can I contest a traffic challan?
Yes, you can contest a traffic challan by following the procedure outlined by the respective traffic department.
Q. What are the consequences of not paying a challan?
Not paying a challan can lead to increased fines, legal actions, or even vehicle impoundment.
Q. Do traffic challans lead to licence suspension?
Certain serious violations can lead to licence suspension, but it depends on the severity of the offence and local regulations.
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