Table of Contents
Introduction
Traffic laws are put in place to ensure the safety of all road users and to maintain order on the roads. While many people are aware of the basic traffic laws, such as stopping at red lights and yielding to pedestrians, there are several other traffic laws in India that are not as well known. In this article, we will take a look at some of the top traffic laws in India that many people may not be aware of.
Use of mobile phones while driving
Use of mobile phones while driving: As per Rule 21 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules 1989 (CMVR), it is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving in India, except to make emergency calls. This includes texting, talking on the phone, and even using hands-free devices. Using a mobile phone while driving can be extremely dangerous, as it takes the driver’s attention away from the road and can lead to accidents.
Seat belt laws
Use of seat belts: Rule 138 (3) of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989 (CMVR) also makes it mandatory for all drivers and passengers in the front seats of a vehicle to wear seat belts at all times while the vehicle is in motion. This rule is designed to reduce the chances of serious injuries in the event of a collision or accident. However, many people do not realize that it is mandatory to wear seat belts, and may not use them even when they are available in the vehicle.
Overloading of vehicles
Overloading of vehicles: As per Rule 21 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989 (CMVR), it is illegal to overload a vehicle beyond its capacity. This includes both the number of passengers and the amount of cargo that can be safely transported. Overloading a vehicle can cause it to become unstable and more prone to accidents.
Drunk driving
Drunk driving: As per Rule 21 and 22 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989 (CMVR), It is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal blood alcohol limit in India is 0.03%. Driving under the influence can lead to serious accidents and can result in fines, jail time, and the loss of driving privileges.
Use of speed governors in buses and trucks
Use of speed governors in buses and trucks: Section 110(1)(f) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 requires all buses and trucks to be equipped with speed governors, which are devices that limit the maximum speed at which the vehicle can travel. This rule is designed to reduce the chances of accidents caused by speeding.
Speed limits
Speed limits: There are various speed limits in place for different types of roads in India. It is important to adhere to these speed limits, as driving at high speeds can increase the risk of accidents. In residential areas, the speed limit is generally 40 km/h, while on highways it can be up to 80 km/h. It is illegal to exceed speed limits beyond the limit and can penalize you under section 183 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 and Rule 21 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989.
Right of way
Right of way: In India, vehicles on the right have the right of way. This means that if you are turning left at an intersection, you must yield to oncoming traffic. It is also important to remember to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and to give way to emergency vehicles such as ambulances and police cars. Click here to know more.
Use of horn
Use of horn: As per Rule 119 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. It is illegal to use the horn excessively or to honk at someone in a rude or aggressive manner. As per The horn should only be used to alert other road users of your presence in a situation where it is necessary for safety reasons.
Carrying a valid driving license
Carrying a valid driving license: As per Rule 3 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, it is a legal requirement in India for all drivers to carry a valid driving license while driving. The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 states that it is an offense to drive a vehicle without a valid driving license, and offenders may be subject to fines and other penalties.
Overtaking
Overtaking: It is illegal to overtake on the left side of a vehicle as per Section 14 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. If you want to pass another vehicle, you must do so on the right side. It is also important to remember to use your turn signals when overtaking to let other drivers know your intentions. Click here to know more.
Disobeying traffic signals
Disobeying traffic signals: It is illegal to ignore traffic signals such as red lights and stop signs as per Section 119 of The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Disobeying traffic signals can lead to accidents and can result in fines and loss of driving privileges.
Use of child safety seats
Use of child safety seats: Rule 138 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989 also require that children under the age of 14 be seated in a child safety seat while traveling in a vehicle. This rule is designed to ensure the safety of young children, who are more vulnerable to injuries in the event of an accident.
Use of helmets by two-wheeler riders
Use of helmets by two-wheeler riders: Section 129 of The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 requires all two-wheeler riders to wear a helmet while driving. This rule is designed to reduce the chances of serious head injuries in the event of an accident.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to familiarize yourself with the traffic laws in India and to always follow them while driving. This will help to ensure the safety of all road users and will help to prevent accidents. Remember to always drive defensively and to be mindful of other road users, and you will be well on your way to becoming a responsible and safe driver.
All efforts are made to ensure the accuracy and correctness of the information published at Legally Flawless. However, Legally Flawless shall not be responsible for any errors caused due to oversight or otherwise. The users are advised to check the information themselves.
