Major traffic violations in the country include over-speeding (49 per cent), helmet/seatbelt non-compliance (19 per cent), obstructive parking (14 per cent) and signal jumping and wrong-side driving (18 per cent).
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JOTHI RAMALINGAM B
A two-wheeler in Bengaluru was documented as having paid ₹3 lakh in penalties for 500 violations, which signifies a deeper crisis. According to a Cars24 report, India has levied ₹12,000 crore worth of traffic fines in 202,4, with ₹9,000 crore still unpaid. With only 11 crore people owning cars and 8 crore challans issued last year, the magnitude of non-compliance and weak enforcement raises questions about road safety in the country.
Driving habits
The report, based on a survey of 1.000 people, revealed that 43.9 per cent of the respondents assert they follow rules regardless of police presence. Meanwhile, 31.2 per cent check for police presence occasionally before adjusting their driving, while 17.6 per cent remain vigilant of their surroundings and adjust to avoid fines.
In terms of how surveillance cameras affect driver behaviour, 47 per cent of the respondents state they drive the same way regardless of CCTV cameras, while 36.8 per cent admit they slow down only when they see a camera. The remaining 15.3 per cent only adjusts for the speed cameras, while ignoring others.
Major traffic violations in the country include over-speeding (49 per cent), helmet/seatbelt non-compliance (19 per cent), obstructive parking (14 per cent) and signal jumping and wrong-side driving (18 per cent).
But why do people violate traffic rules?
The survey revealed that people view fines only as minor inconveniences, not actual deterrents to curb dangerous behaviour. Indian drivers only show conditional compliance, where over 20 per cent of the respondents revealed that they would take risks even if fines were doubled.
38.5 per cent of the participants admit that they’ve paid a bribe once or twice, while 15.9 per cent of the respondents say they do it often. Only 29.2 per cent claim to always pay fines the right way.
So, what is the solution?
The report suggests a mix of stricter penalties and smarter enforcement. Some of the proposed solutions include repercussions such as suspension of licenses, higher vehicle insurance premiums and legal action if the fine is not paid on time.
It should also include having more tech-driven enforcement such as AI-based real-time monitoring, and instant penalty systems where automated systems issue e-challans immediately. Raising awareness and mandating refresher driving courses could also help instil safer, more consistent driving habits.
(With inputs from bl intern Nethra Sailesh)
Published on May 19, 2025