New Traffic Fine Rules: What Happens If You’re Caught Without a Helmet

What Is the Fine for Not Wearing a Helmet in India?

The Motor Vehicles Act 1988 makes it illegal to drive a two-wheeler without a helmet. The Act specifies that any person caught driving a two-wheeler without a helmet is liable to a fine and the seizure of the driving license for three months.

The penalty for driving a two-wheeler without a helmet is ₹1000. This penalty may vary by state, so ensure you check the fee for your state. Additionally, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways have mandated wearing ISI-stamped helmets. If found without wearing a helmet with an ISI stamp, a ₹1000 fine can be imposed. Further, if the straps of the helmet are undone additional ₹1,000 fine can be imposed.

Tips to Avoid Getting Fined for Not Wearing a Helmet While Driving

If you keep forgetting to wear your helmet, here are a few practical tips to help you.

1. Purchase a helmet lock to ensure your helmet stays on your two-wheeler.
2. Ensure that you have an extra helmet for the pillion rider. This is simply because, in India, helmets are mandatory for both passengers.
3. Don’t forget to wear a helmet that meets your state’s requirements. Remember that only certain helmets can save you from a fine.

Why is Wearing a Helmet Important for Two-Wheeler Riders?

Wearing a helmet while riding a two-wheeler is possibly the simplest and most effective way to ensure road safety. Here are some reasons why you must not ignore wearing a helmet.

Ensures Legal Compliance

Wearing a helmet is legally mandated for every two-wheeler rider in India. Under the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, riding a two-wheeler without a helmet is an offence punishable by penalties.

Promotes Road Safety

Wearing a helmet is not just a legal requirement; it is an effective safety measure you must not ignore. It protects you from brain or head injuries, dust or insects from entering your eyes, and makes you more visible to other drivers on the road, etc.

Saves You From Heavy Penalties

Section 194D of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, imposes a penalty for not wearing protective headgear/ helmet. According to this section, a penalty of ₹1000 can be imposed for not wearing a helmet.3

Did You Know that, according to a recent survey, one Bengaluru rider was found with 89 challans amounting to ₹44,500, while one rider in Delhi paid around ₹61,000 worth of challans for traffic violations?4

Protects Your Licence to Drive

Under section 194D of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, a two-wheeler rider found driving without a helmet should be disqualified from holding a driving license for 3 months.

To Conclude

Wearing a helmet while driving a two-wheeler is more than just following a legal mandate. It is a step you take to ensure your own and overall road safety. In India, road accident cases have increased sharply in recent years due to traffic violations. Next time you head out to ride your two-wheeler, ensure you don't forget your helmet.

The next step to ensure safety and protection as a two-wheeler rider is to purchase a reliable bike insurance policy. Head to Jio Insurance Broking: A comprehensive platform where you can explore, compare and purchase policies of reputed insurance companies.