Most Important Traffic Rules for Car Drivers

The government designs traffic safety rules to maintain road safety and reduce accidents. Adherence to traffic rules requires a collective effort from citizens, government and law enforcement agencies. The consequences of not adhering to these rules can be severe, underlining the seriousness of the issue.

Strict adherence to traffic rules not only offers safety to pedestrians and drivers but also curbs the occurrence of accidents. Additionally, obeying traffic rules provides a structured framework that offers safety to vulnerable road users such as cyclists, pedestrians, etc.

Having traffic safety rules in place also reduces congestion, ensuring a fair distribution of traffic. This, in turn, improves the overall efficiency of the transportation system.

Adherence to car driving rules is necessary to avoid traffic law violations. Violation of traffic rules can invite a fine and penalty from the authority.

These penalties can range from a monetary fine to suspension of driving licence, and in severe cases, even imprisonment. Below are traffic rules 10 points every car owner needs to follow in India.

1. Wearing a Seat Belt

• One of the crucial car driving rules drivers need to follow while driving is wearing a seatbelt. No matter how many airbags your car has, wearing a seatbelt is important. It is a lifesaver as it significantly reduces the risk of injuries during an accident. It is not only mandatory for drivers, but passengers also need to wear seatbelts.

• Under Section 138 (3) CMVR 177 MVA, not fastening a seat belt while driving is a traffic rule violation and can invite a fine and penalty from the authorities.

2. Follow Traffic Signals

• Almost every jurisdiction in India has traffic signals to facilitate the smooth traffic flow in the region. Following traffic signal rules is crucial to maintaining the smooth transportation operation in the city.

• However, many times, in a hurry, a car driver tries to jump these traffic signals, which leads to traffic congestion issues and sometimes even accidents.

• Drivers need to follow the traffic signal light. Violation of this can invite a challan from the authorities. Repeated traffic rule violations can also lead to suspension of a driving licence.

3. Avoid Drinking and Driving

• Another crucial car driving rule is to avoid drinking and driving while on the road. Alcohol is one of the main causes of road accidents on the road. It can impair an individual's judgement, reaction time and coordination, which can lead to fatal road accidents.

• Not only does it put drivers' lives in danger, but it can also risk others' lives on the road, such as pedestrians. Driving under the influence is a traffic rules violation in India, which can invite hefty fines, driving licence suspension and, in the worst cases, even imprisonment.

4. Avoid Driving Without Insurance

• Considering the incidence of road rash, authorities have made it mandatory for four-wheeler owners to have a third-party car insurance policy.

• This plan offers financial protection to the vehicle owners for damages caused to third parties and property damage by insured vehicles.

• Driving a car without valid motor insurance is a punishable offence and can invite a fine from the authorities.

5. Avoid Using Electronic Device While Driving

• Using mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving can cause distraction and lead to accidents.

• The new law MV rules that came into effect on 1 October 2020 state that the driver can use mobile phones for navigational purposes while driving, but using them for talking or texting is a violation of traffic rules.

• Apart from this, loud music and talking while driving can also cause distraction, which can lead to road accidents.

6. Avoid Racing and Speeding

• Maintaining a speed limit on the road is also crucial to avoid reckless and rash driving. Public roads are not racing tracks.

• Speeding a vehicle leaves less time to respond and react in case of unexpected situations and obstacles on the road, such as sudden braking by the vehicle in front or a pedestrian crossing the road.

• Further, at high speeds, maintaining control of your vehicle is difficult. Hence, to curb overspending, authorities have decided the speed limit to follow on the road. Violation of the speed limit leads to a penalty.

7. Do Not Overload a Car

• Another crucial car driving rule is not overloading a car with passengers. A car that carries passengers beyond its capacity can throw off the vehicle's balance and handling.

• Furthermore, a vehicle that carries a load beyond its capacity, resulting in reduced manoeuvrability.

• Additionally, it takes longer for the car to stop in case of applying brakes when the vehicle is overloaded. An overloaded car is more prone to tipping over during sharp turns and sudden stops.

8. Driving without Valid Documents

• While driving a car on Indian roads, drivers need to carry several important documents to comply with legal requirements and ensure smooth travel.

• These documents include a valid driving licence, which certifies that the driver is legally permitted to operate a vehicle.

• Additionally, the vehicle's registration certificate (RC) must be carried at all times to prove that the car is registered with the relevant authorities.

9. Follow Parking Regulations

• Following parking regulations is crucial for maintaining order and safety on the roads. Proper adherence to these rules helps prevent traffic congestion and ensures that emergency vehicles can navigate streets without obstructions.

• Always park in designated areas, and avoid parking in spaces reserved for specific purposes, such as disabled parking or loading zones.

10. Offer Way to Emergency Vehicle

• Another car driving rule is to offer a way to emergency vehicles while on the road. When you hear the siren or see the flashing lights of an emergency vehicle such as an ambulance, fire truck or police car, it is important to remain calm and take prompt action.

• If you are on a multi-lane road, safely move to the left or right, creating a clear path for the emergency vehicle to pass through the centre.

• Also Read: Rules to follow while driving on highway

Vehicle owners need to follow traffic safety rules while driving on the road, as violations can result in fines and penalties from the authorities. Another crucial requirement for car owners is to have a third-party car insurance policy.

This type of insurance provides coverage for any damage or injury caused to a third party in the event of an accident, ensuring legal compliance and financial protection.

However, third-party car insurance coverage is limited, so vehicle owners often consider purchasing a comprehensive policy. TATA AIG offers different car insurance plans, including third-party, own-damage and comprehensive policies.

Further, we offer a unique list of add-ons, such as zero depreciation, engine security, roadside assistance and consumables in car insurance, to enhance vehicle protection.

Additionally, we have a wide network of garages across the country that provide cashless repair services to our policyholders. With our easy buying and renewal process, you can purchase a car insurance policy in just a couple of minutes without any paperwork.

Maintaining road safety is crucial to avoid incidents such as road rash and other traffic-related issues. To ensure smooth transportation operations and reduce the number of road accidents, authorities in India have established driving laws and traffic safety rules.
Adherence to these rules is essential, and those who violate them are required to pay fines to the authorities.

The amount of the fine can vary depending on the nature and severity of the traffic violation. Failure to pay a traffic fine on time can result in additional penalties from the authorities.

Can I use my phone while driving a car?

No, using your phone while driving is generally prohibited and considered unsafe. It can lead to distractions, increasing the risk of accidents.

Many regions have strict laws against using phones without hands-free systems and violating these laws can result in fines and penalties.

What happens if I do not obey traffic rules?

If you do not obey traffic rules, you may face various consequences, including fines, penalties, or even legal action.

Non-compliance can lead to points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and, in severe cases, suspension or revocation of your driver's licence.

What is the penalty for driving without a car insurance policy?

Driving without a valid motor insurance policy can result in a fine of ₹2000 for a first-time offence and ₹4000 for a repeat offence. It can also lead to imprisonment for three months.