The Motor Vehicle Act, also known as the MV Act of 1988, governs nearly all modes of transportation on Indian roads. The Act offers guidelines for the registration of new motor vehicles, provisions for various traffic regulations, and information on driver and conductor licencing. The Act also discusses
car insurance and
scooter insurance, the liabilities of motorists and insurers in various events, and more.
According to this Act, you cannot ride a vehicle without a valid driver's licence or if your vehicle is not covered by
scooter insurance or
car insurance.
In 2019, the Government made several changes to the MV Act of 1988. You should be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding vehicle purchase, and
scooter insurance or
car insurance in India. But before that, let's discuss the provisions of the MV Act of 1988.
List of offences mentioned under the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988
Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 (Section) |
Offences |
Section 17(i) RRR 177 | If you are found driving in the wrong lane by entering one way.
|
Section 4 R/S 181 | If your vehicle is being driven by a minor. |
Section 39 R/W 192 | If you are caught driving without a valid registration certificate (RC). |
Section 5 R/W 180 | If an unauthorised person drives your vehicle. |
Section 130 R/W 177 | - If you are caught driving without a valid licence.
- If you are found driving without a valid road permit.
- If your vehicle has not been tested for fitness after the prescribed age limit.
|
Section 129 R/W 177 | If you are caught riding a two-wheeler without a helmet. |
Section 184 | If you are caught rash driving. |
Section 138 (3) CMVR 177 | If you are caught driving a four-wheeler without a seat belt properly fastened. |
Section 112-183 | If you are caught doing dangerous things while driving. |
What is the difference between the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988 and 2019?
The amendment to the MV Act of 1988 increased the penalties. It means that the penalty for not having valid
scooter insurance or
car insurance is significantly higher now compared to 2018.
Offence |
Old fine | New fine |
Racing | Rs 500 | First offence: - Rs 5,000 or/and
- Three months imprisonment
Second offence: - Rs 10,000 or/and
- One year of imprisonment
|
Driving without DL | Rs 500 | Rs 5,000 |
Intoxicated driving | Rs 2,000 | First offence: - Rs 10,000 or/and
- Six months of imprisonment
Second offence: - Rs 15,000 or/and
- Two years of imprisonment
|
Overspeeding | Rs 400 | Light vehicle: Medium/heavy vehicle:
|
Riding without car insurance or scooter insurance | Rs 1,000 | First offence: - Rs 2,000 or/and
- Three months of imprisonment
Second offence: - Rs 4,000 or/and
- Three months of imprisonment
|
Violating road regulations | Rs 100 | Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 |
Riding without a helmet (including a pillion) | Rs 100 | - Rs 1000 or/and
- Disqualification
|
Rash driving | Rs 100 to Rs 300 | First offence: - Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 or/and
- 6-12 months of imprisonment
Second offence: - Rs 10,000 or/and
- Two years of imprisonment
|
Overloading (two-wheeler) | Rs 100 |
- Rs 2,000 or/and
- Licence suspension
|
Driving oversized vehicle | - | Rs 5,000 and Rs 10,000
|
Using mobile while driving | Rs 1,000 | Rs 5,000
|
Driving without fastening a seatbelt | Rs 100 | Rs 1,000
|
Why was the fine for violating traffic rules raised?
In recent years, there have been numerous incidents where negligent driving has caused severe road mishaps that have resulted in the death of motorists or pedestrians. People often overlook the importance of wearing seat belts, avoiding intoxicated substances when driving, and not overloading the vehicle because of small fine amounts. They also disregard the significance of having
car insurance or a
scooter insurance policy.
Thus, amendments to the MV Act of 1988 were made to reduce the number of road mishaps and encourage people to obey traffic laws.
To conclude
The MV Act exists to ensure the safety of both riders and pedestrians. It is critical to follow the guidelines outlined above. You must also ensure that your vehicle is covered by
car insurance or
scooter insurance so that you are financially protected in the event of a road accident.