With the implementation of the new Motor Vehicle Amendment Act, 2019, the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police have revised the penalties for traffic violations. This update aims to enhance road safety, discourage negligent driving, and ensure that traffic regulations are strictly followed. Here’s a detailed list of traffic violations and their corresponding penalties:
Revised Penalties for Traffic Violations
| Offense | Penalty (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Driving without a seat belt | 1000 |
| Triple riding on a two-wheeler | 1000 |
| Driving without a helmet | 1000 |
| Carrying excess luggage | 500 (First offense) |
| 1500 (Repeat offense) | |
| Driving without a number plate | 500 (First offense) |
| 1500 (Repeat offense) | |
| Parking in a no-parking zone | 500 (First offense) |
| 1500 (Repeat offense) | |
| Minor driving a vehicle | 25000 |
| Disobeying traffic signals | 5000 (First offense) |
| 10000 (Repeat offense) | |
| Dangerous/rash driving | 5000 (First offense) |
| 10000 (Repeat offense) | |
| Using a mobile phone while driving | 5000 (First offense) |
| 10000 (Repeat offense) | |
| Drunken driving | 10000 |
| Driving a vehicle without registration | 2000 |
| Driving an uninsured vehicle | 2000 |
| Violation of road regulations | 1000 |
| Over-speeding | 1000 (LMV) |
| 2000 (Medium passenger goods vehicle) | |
| Carrying explosive/inflammable substances | 10000 |
| Not giving passage to emergency vehicles | 10000 |
| Driving when mentally or physically unfit | 1000 (First offense) |
| 2000 (Repeat offense) | |
| Racing | 5000 (First offense) |
| 10000 (Repeat offense) | |
| Disqualified person driving a vehicle | 10000 |
| Driving a vehicle registered in another state for more than 12 months | 500 (First offense) |
| 1500 (Repeat offense) | |
| Failure to intimate change of address | 500 (First offense) |
| 1500 (Repeat offense) | |
| Driving without a valid driving license | 5000 |
| Driving without insurance | 2000 |
| Overloading | 2000 |
Consequences of Non-Payment of Fines
Failure to pay traffic fines can lead to more severe consequences, such as court summons, additional penalties, suspension of the driving license, and even imprisonment in extreme cases. It is imperative for drivers to comply with these regulations to avoid legal complications.
Basic Road Safety Rules in Jammu and Kashmir
Adhering to basic road safety rules is crucial for preventing accidents and ensuring smooth traffic flow. Here are the essential rules to be followed:
- Drive on the Left Side: Always keep to the left side of the road. If there are no dividers, allow vehicles to pass on your right.
- Overtake from the Right: Use indicators or horns while overtaking from the right side. Avoid overtaking on narrow lanes.
- Respect Traffic Police: Cooperate with traffic police and avoid arguments or bribery.
- Respect Traffic Signals: Obey traffic signals and allow pedestrians to cross before moving.
- No Parking Zones: Avoid parking in no-parking zones or busy corners.
- Understand Road Signs: Learn and obey road signs and markings.
- Make Way for Emergency Vehicles: Give way to ambulances, police cars, and fire engines.
- Carry Relevant Documents: Always carry your driver’s license, registration certificate, insurance certificate, and Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate. Commercial vehicles must also have a fitness certificate and tourist permits.
- Honking: Only honk when necessary, such as while overtaking or passing through narrow lanes. Avoid honking near schools and hospitals.
- Adhere to Speed Limits: Follow speed limits in cities and on highways to prevent accidents.
- Use of Lights: Use indicators while changing lanes or turning. Use fog lights and emergency lights during heavy rain or fog.
- No Mobile Phones While Driving: Do not use mobile phones while driving. Park safely before making or receiving calls.
- Never Drink and Drive: Drunk driving is heavily penalized and dangerous.
- Learner Drivers: Learner drivers must be accompanied by someone with a valid driving license.
- Prioritize Pedestrians: Always let pedestrians cross the road first.
Additional Safety Rules for Two-Wheeler and Four-Wheeler Drivers
For Two-Wheeler Drivers:
- Only One Pillion Rider: Two-wheelers can carry only one pillion passenger.
- Wear Safety Helmets: Both the driver and the pillion rider must wear helmets. Wearing knee and elbow guards is also advisable.
For Four-Wheeler Drivers:
- Always Wear Seat Belts: All passengers must wear seat belts. Children should have a harness or seat belt.
- Use Mirrors and Indicators: Adjust rearview mirrors before driving and use indicators while turning, changing lanes, or parking.
By following these guidelines and being aware of the penalties for traffic violations, drivers in Jammu and Kashmir can contribute to safer roads and a more orderly traffic system.
