22 Jan, 2025

How to Avoid Unexpected Traffic Fines?

Driving is a part of everyday life for most people. Governments worldwide are tightening traffic regulations to improve road safety, reduce accidents, and manage congestion. This includes stricter enforcement of speed limits, mandatory use of seat belts, stricter penalties for drunk driving, and more focus on ensuring vehicles are roadworthy. Additionally, many places are implementing smart traffic systems to optimize traffic flow, reduce emissions, and encourage the use of public transport.

However, many of us are not aware of all the necessary regulations. Breaking traffic rules can lead to fines and sometimes even e-challans, which might come as an unpleasant surprise. However, by following simple steps and adhering to the rules, one can easily avoid most of the fines. In this article, we discuss how to avoid unexpected traffic fines.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Unexpected Traffic Fines

Understanding and implementing preventative measures can help drivers avoid unexpected traffic fines, ensuring a smoother and safer driving experience. Here are some proactive measures to avoid unexpected traffic fines.

Traffic rules differ from state to state and even region to region. Knowing the local traffic laws, such as speed limits, parking regulations, and lane usage, is indispensable. Being informed ensures you do not end up violating rules unintentionally. The Motor Vehicles Amendment Act of 2019 introduced stringent punishments for various driving offences like drunk driving, underage driving, and driving without a license.

Keep your car in excellent condition to prevent penalties for issues like a malfunctioning brake light, a broken indicator, or even a missing rearview mirror. Regular maintenance is not only your safety guarantee but also your traffic regulation compliance guarantee. Ensure that your PUC is not a stale document. Driving without a valid PUC may lead to fines under the Motor Vehicles Act. Servicing also prevents potential issues that can lead to unforeseen breakdowns or violations.

The most common traffic violation that occurs in India is speeding. It not only puts lives in danger but is also associated with a lot of penalties in the form of fines. Especially in school zones or residential areas, where speed limits are typically lower, it's crucial to strictly adhere to the recommended speed limits. Crossroads cameras record the penalty for jumping red lights or ignoring signal lights. So be respectful to the signal lights and stand still in the hopes of evading the charge as well as preventing accidents.

Illegal parking frequently leads to the imposition of a traffic ticket. Never ever park in a place other than a parking place. Never park at an entrance gate or a pathway. The authorities keep such unauthorized parking on record and pass an e-challan upon those offenders. Use apps and online applications that help us to find the perfect parking spot that saves us from unnecessary expenses towards fines and towing.

Distracted driving is risky and causes accidents with fines. Refrain from talking on the phone, eating, or doing anything that diverts your attention from the road. If you need to check directions or have a call, drive to the nearest safe stop first. According to the Motor Vehicles Act, distracted driving is a serious crime and has punishment associated with it.

 You must at all times keep a valid license while driving your vehicle. Secondly, carry an account of your vehicle's registration certificate and also insurance with a PUC. If you fail to maintain these documents within reach, traffic authorities may penalize you for not having them in time. One must put copies of every important document using applications like Digilocker/mParivahan approved by central governments.

Seatbelts are mandatory for all car passengers, including those in the back seat. Not wearing a seatbelt is a traffic violation and compromises your safety. Make it a habit to buckle up every time you’re in a car.

Driving on one-way streets is risky as well as illegal. It is always important to look for the road signs and abide by the traffic directions. One can also join the line with the help of the navigator and not confuse himself or herself.

Indian roads are increasingly seeing the installation of AI cameras to capture traffic violations such as speeding, jumping the signal, and improper parking. These cameras don't sleep, as they run 24/7 and never miss committing any violation. Knowing their locations and following the rules of traffic will save you from paying fines and will make the roads safe for everyone.

Also read, Benefits and Use Cases of AI in the Automotive Industry

Some Additional Guidelines To Avoid Incurring Fines

Do Not Drink and Drive: This is a very serious offence that carries a jail term as well as punishment. Always use public transport or a designated driver if you’ve consumed alcohol.

Observe the Rights of Pedestrians: Failure to give way at crossings for pedestrians will attract a fine. Watch out and be sure to abide by the rules for zebra crossings.

Don't Overload the Vehicles: If you transport more passengers or goods than permitted, you will face consequences. You will undoubtedly receive a fine. Stick to the limits to avoid fines and ensure safety.

Wear Helmets: If you have a two-wheeler, a helmet is a must. Ensure the pillion rider also wears it. Wearing helmets is necessary and extremely essential for road safety.

E-Challan, The Digital Tracker: The government issues e-challans to track and monitor traffic violations. Whenever there is any case of overspeeding, jumping the signal, or even driving without proper documents, then the government provides the electronic challan. There are various official websites or apps through which one can see the electronic challan. Thus, keeping vigilant and checking oneself will prevent such flags from rising.

Responsible Driving: Traffic fines are preventive measures rather than punitive measures to make roads safer. The main intention of imposing these penalties is to avoid violations and hence a good number of accidents, creating responsibility within every driver. Educate yourself, respect traffic laws, and so teach others. Safe driving is to avoid penalties and promote a more peaceful and safer road environment.

Read to know: Traffic Rules Every Car Driver Should Know in India