In India, people breaking rules is not a new thing. The reason we see people neglect rules or not care about safety is mostly because our system is a bit relaxed compared to other developed or developing countries. While we have a long list of rules and regulations that one must follow, cops don’t enforce all of them. Here, we have a list of some traffic offenses that many of you may not even know existed.
Blocking Traffic
In parking lots, we often see this. We’ve all been in situations in many public or paid parking spots in India where there’s always one person who parks their vehicle so irresponsibly that it blocks the path for others. This is actually an offense, and if reported, police can issue a challan of ₹100 to the offender. The main aim of this challan is to ensure that people do not create obstructions for others, but many tend to overlook this due to the small fine amount.
Not Having First Aid
This is a rule specific to Chennai and Kolkata. Other states might not consider this an offense. If the driver of a car fails to provide first aid or does not have a first aid kit in the car in case of an accident, cops can issue a fine of ₹500, or the offender may face a jail term of up to 3 months. This rule ensures that every vehicle is equipped with a first aid kit, which is mandatory for every new two-wheeler and four-wheeler sold in India.
Smoking in a Car
Smoking in a public place is an offense, and so is smoking inside a car in the Delhi NCR region. Even if your car is parked and not in motion, it is considered an offense. Cops can issue a challan of ₹100. This is done to reduce the number of smokers in public places and cars to avoid any distractions.
Borrowing a Car
This is another rule specific to Chennai. As per this rule, if you are borrowing a car, the owner must be aware of it. If someone takes a car without informing the owner, Chennai Police can impose a jail term of up to 3 months or a fine of ₹500. This was implemented to reduce vehicle thefts, as thieves often claim the vehicle belongs to a friend during routine police document checks.
Installing a TV
Car interior customizations are done by many workshops across the country. However, in Mumbai, installing a TV or any video-playing device on a vehicle’s dashboard is illegal, and a fine of up to ₹100 can be imposed on violators (the amount may have increased). This rule aims to reduce distractions while driving.
Leaving a Car on Idle
Also in Mumbai, if you leave your car idling for a long period or leave the engine running unnecessarily, cops can issue a challan of ₹100. This rule encourages drivers to save fuel and turn off the engine when the vehicle is not in use.
Giving Lifts to Strangers
Offering lifts to strangers is considered an offense in India. Why? Well, this is to reduce crimes and thefts and also to prevent the misuse of private cars for commercial purposes. If you are found giving lifts to strangers, your vehicle can be confiscated for being used as a taxi.
