All about helmet laws in India
Read All about helmet laws in India. For more information, check out the bike insurance policy from Zurich Kotak General Insurance.
The Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 has undergone several revisions to make it more thorough and applicable while keeping up with the evolving traffic situation. The most recent revision from 2019 adds 63 clauses that have some revised helmet laws. These provisions increased fines for traffic infractions, including operating a vehicle without a helmet.
Additionally, these traffic laws set forth requirements for the headgear or helmet worn while you ride.
What are the provisions of the act?
The Motor Vehicle Act of India has concluded the following helmet laws under the act -
• All riders, including the pillion rider, who are older than four years old must wear "protective gear" when operating a motorbike - Section 129(a).
• If they wear a turban while riding a bike, Sikhism adherents are free from wearing helmets.
• The helmet should be tightly fastened to the driver's head using the associated straps to prevent the headgear from coming off in the case of an accident.
• You can have trouble registering your bike if your dealer does not give you the required helmet. Additionally, significant elements, in this case, are the helmet's material and form.
• Section 138 (4) (f) of the Central Motor Vehicles Rule served as the foundation for several states' RTO helmet regulations (CMVR). A minimum of two BIS-compliant protective helmets must be provided to buyers of two-wheelers as per this regulation, one for the driver and one for the passenger.
List of fines for not wearing a helmet in different states
The helmet laws differ state-wise. Some of them are as below -
States | Penalties |
Uttar Pradesh | The fine for riding a two-wheeler without a helmet might be as much as Rs.600. |
Uttarakhand | Laws have been changed by the state government to lower the fine for not wearing helmet from Rs.1000 to Rs.500. |
Gujarat | The state government changed the legislation to lower the fine for failing to wear a helmet from Rs.1000 to Rs.500. |
Karnataka | Rs.500 or/and disqualification of driving license for three months |
Kerala | The state had to withdraw the newly implemented rules due to the disagreement among the residents and the Trade Unions. It is a Rs.500 fine for not wearing helmet. |
Maharashtra | Riders will have a fine of up to Rs.1000, cancellation of their driving license, and/or do community service for three months. |
West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh | Users of two-wheelers without a helmet may adhere to the previous regulations and associated sanctions. It is Rs.1000 fine. |
Bihar, Haryana, Tripura, Assam | Riders without a helmet will face all penalties as per the law. The law is to impose Rs.1000 fine, Driving License cancellation, and/or imprisonment up to 3 months. |
Know the importance of a helmet
Helmets stand as more than just a piece of protective gear; they are guardians of life, silently protecting in the face of risks. Understanding the vital role helmets play in safeguarding our well-being is important. Primarily, helmets serve as the frontline defence against head injuries. Moreover, the importance of helmets extends beyond individual safety as it encourages others to prioritise safety while driving.
Advantages of wearing a helmet
Wearing a helmet is essential for road safety, as it offers numerous advantages that can help prevent road accidents and minimise their impact. Here are some key advantages of wearing a helmet, highlighting its importance in promoting road safety, adhering to traffic rules and reducing the risk of accidents:
Head protection: Helmets provide essential protection for the head, safeguarding the skull and brain from serious injuries in the event of accidents, falls, or collisions.
Compliance with road safety rules: Wearing a helmet is a legal requirement enforced as part of road safety rules in India.
Prevention of fatal injuries: Head injuries are a leading cause of fatalities in road accidents. Wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of fatal head injuries, increasing the chances of survival for riders and passengers involved in crashes.
Protection from debris and weather conditions: Helmets shield the face and eyes from debris, dust, insects and adverse weather conditions such as rain, wind and sun glare. Clear visibility and protection from distractions contribute to safer riding experiences.
Conclusion
Helmet laws mandate the use of helmets by motorcyclists, cyclists and other riders for safety reasons. Failure to comply with these laws can result in penalties, including fines, license suspension and legal consequences. The traffic rules protect you from significant damage done in road accidents, so stay safe, follow the rules that are for your good and you will never have to pay fines. During these discussions, concerns about bike insurance online have also emerged, reflecting a broader discourse on road safety and regulatory compliance.
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