Introduction:

As per the current situation in the country, the recorded road accidental deaths in the year 2020 were around 1.20 Lakh, an average of 328 on a daily basis. There is a dire need to scrutinize the reason behind such high numbers and also if any change in any law or rules is required for controlling the same. The study conducted by NCRB (National Crime Record Bureau) showed that the number of fatalities and road accidental deaths are caused due to over speeding, dangerous or careless driving, overtaking, force of nature, sometimes due to poor weather conditions and other causes like deliberate or negligent conduct on the part of human beings. Further, the report recorded that drivers of two wheelers are more prone to road accidents followed by cars, trucks, buses and lorries etc. During the study by NCRB, it was found that the accidents reported in rural areas were more than the urban areas. 

General Safety Rules for Drivers:

1. Sticking to the Speed Limits: Always follow the speed limit as mentioned on the sign boards. Going beyond the speed limit will attract fines and penalties from authorities and lead to road accidents.

2. Avoid Distraction: Make sure that there should not be any distractions while you drive. Stay alert and focussed while driving. Example: Talking on mobile phone is a punishable offence and is a major reason behind road accidents. Another example of distracted driving include listening to loud music while driving.

3. Wearing Safety Gears while driving: Wearing a seatbelt while driving is a must for the driver to protect himself from the collision against the windshield. Not only the driver but also the pillions must make sure that they are strapped in order to avoid the after effects of the accident on them. 

4. Avoid Drink and Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol can impair the reaction time. This kind of driving can always lead to judgment errors and mishaps. Even if the driver feels fine after drinking, he must refrain from doing so.

5. Maintaining Good condition of the Vehicle: The driver must make sure that he has properly maintained the vehicle and should always recheck before driving. Checking the tyre pressure, break fluids, coolant levels are some of the essential requisites which must be checked and rechecked by the drivers. 

6. Practice Defensive Driving: The drivers adopting such practice by anticipating the scenarios that could lead to dangerous situations may reduce the dangers linked to driving. Example: Apprehending the weather conditions for driving and a reckless motorist or driver. Not using the high beam light while driving in the mountain regions is a must in order to avoid any dangerous situations.

Updated List of Traffic Fines for Different Violations in India :

Vehicle Documents: To be Carried During All Times

It is mandatory that the driver must be well equipped with the valid driving license, vehicle’s registration certificate, Pollution control certificate, insurance policies and the required permits. Having all these documents in place would lead one to avoid the unnecessary panic created by the traffic police officials and also avoid the risk of being caught. 

Lawyer on the Spot in association with AITWA

While on the road, if any situation arrises wherein one needs or assistance of any lawyer or in need of any legal advice, the team from LotS (Lawyer on the Spot) is available 24*7 for help. If any driver is caught by the authorities for any reason, valid or invalid, the LotS Team is available on a call for the benefit of the transport fraternity. The Team can help in providing a quick solution to all your on-road legal issues.