• The Government of India approved the Motor Vehicles (Amendments) Bill, 2019 in Rajya Sabha on July 31, 2019. Previously, Lok Sabha approved this bill on July 23, 2019. The amendments proposed in the revised bill are anticipated to assist in reducing corruption, enhancing road safety, improving the rural transport system, modernizing public transport, promoting vehicle insurance uptake, and introducing automation along with various online services to expedite the numerous processes associated with the transport department across India.

New Motor Vehicle Amendment Act: Stricter Penalties for Traffic Violations

• The Indian government has considerably tightened traffic regulations with the enactment of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. This act has introduced significant increases in fines for different traffic violations, intending to discourage reckless driving and enhance road safety.

Key Traffic Offenses and Penalties

Document-Related Offenses

• Driving Without a License: A substantial fine of Rs. 5,000 and possible imprisonment for up to 3 months.
• Driving Without Insurance: A fine of Rs. 2,000 and possible imprisonment for up to 3 months for lacking car insurance.
• Not Carrying Registration Certificate: A penalty of Rs. 2,000.
• Juvenile Driving: A severe fine of Rs. 25,000 for the guardian/owner, along with a potential 3-year prison sentence.

Driving-Related Offenses

• Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs: A major fine of Rs. 10,000 and possible imprisonment.
• Rash and Negligent Driving: A penalty of Rs. 5,000.
• Over-speeding: A fine ranging from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 2,000, depending upon the severity of the violation.
• Jumping Red Lights: A fine between Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000 and possible imprisonment.
• Not Wearing a Helmet: A fine of Rs. 1,000 and a 3-month suspension of the driving license.
• Using a Mobile Phone While Driving: A substantial fine of Rs. 5,000.
• Overloading Vehicles: A fine of Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 20,000, based on the type of vehicle and the degree of overloading.

Vehicle-Related Offenses

• Driving Without a Valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate: A fine of Rs. 500.
• Driving a Vehicle Without a Number Plate: A fine of Rs. 100.
• Driving a Vehicle with Improper Lights or Horn: A penalty of Rs. 500.
• Parking-Related Offenses
• Parking in No-Parking Zones: A fine of Rs. 500 and the potential towing of the vehicle.
• Improper Parking: A fine of Rs. 100.

• It’s essential to follow traffic rules and regulations to steer clear of these substantial penalties and potential legal repercussions. By driving responsibly and adhering to traffic laws, you can help foster a safer and more efficient road network.

• The new Motor Vehicles (Amendments) Bill, 2019 will soon be enacted as law in India, following the signature of the President of India. We believe that this new legislation will significantly diminish road accidents and that people will adhere to traffic regulations more carefully. The substantial fines imposed on vehicle owners and drivers will ensure an improved transport system and greater discipline among the citizens of India while operating their vehicles.

• Please ensure that you do not operate your vehicle with an invalid or lapsed policy, as this may lead to complications. Furthermore, it is advisable to invest in a reasonable car/bike insurance policy well ahead of time rather than facing a hefty fine of INR 2,000.

FAQs
What were the significant alterations made in the Motor Vehicles Act 2019?

• The changes raised fines for traffic offenses, implemented more rigorous licensing requirements, enhanced road safety initiatives, and included measures for vehicle recalls and compensation for hit-and-run incidents.

How did the 2019 amendments affect traffic fines and penalties?

• The penalties for different traffic offenses were notably heightened to promote adherence. For instance, the fine for driving under the influence was increased to ₹10,000, and failure to wear a helmet could lead to a ₹1,000 penalty.

Did the updated amendments establish stricter regulations for driving licenses?

• Yes, the procedure for acquiring a driving license became more rigorous, featuring tougher driving examinations, online application systems, and penalties for operating a vehicle without a legitimate license.

How did the Motor Vehicles Act 2019 tackle road safety issues?

• The amendments established increased fines for reckless driving, mandatory third-party insurance, improved training programs for drivers, and safety guidelines for cyclists and pedestrians.

What measures were included for hit-and-run compensation under the new amendments?

• The compensation allotted for victims of hit-and-run incidents was elevated, offering ₹2 lakh to the family of a deceased victim and ₹50,000 for serious injuries, thereby ensuring enhanced financial assistance for accident victims.