Karnataka is one of the most developed states in India. Popular cities such as Bengaluru, which is known as the Silicon Valley of India, Mysuru and Mangalore are located in Karnataka. Karnataka is known for its roads and public transport as well. However, due to the growing number of companies in the state and job opportunities, the population of the state has increased as well.
This has increased road traffic to a certain extent, which can cause unfortunate incidents on the road. To deal with this, the Karnataka government implemented revised traffic fines as per the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. Here is an in-depth guide to the traffic rules in Karnataka.
Karnataka Traffic Fines: What You Need to Know
In 2019, keeping in mind the changing landscape of India in terms of road traffic, the Indian government amended the
Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. One major amendment was carried out with the traffic fines. When the changes were amended and implemented, this was across pan-India.
Karnataka was one of the first states to legally recognise these changes. Considering how there has been a rapid growth in the number of vehicles being purchased in the state, it was important for people to understand and adopt these changes.
Updated Traffic Fines for Karnataka
As per the revised fines in the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988, the Karnataka government amended the fines in the state as well. Here are the updated Karnataka traffic fine rules:
Type of offence |
Vehicle |
Fine in Rs. |
Not wearing a seatbelt
|
Car |
500 |
Not wearing a helmet
|
Bike/Scooter |
500 |
Using a vehicle while being physically or mentally unfit
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
1000 for first offence |
Driving despite being disqualified from driving
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
10,000 |
Blocking the road
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
500 |
Allowing a minor to drive the vehicle |
Four- and Two-wheeler |
25,000
(in addition to 3 years of imprisonment. The vehicle is also deregistered for 1 year. The minor driving the vehicle is not allowed to acquire a driving license before the age of 25 years.) |
Obstructing the path of emergency vehicles
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
1000 |
Driving a vehicle without a number plate
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
2000 for bikes and scooters;
3000 for four-wheelers |
Breaking the traffic signal
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
500
|
Making illegal alterations to your vehicle
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
You could be fined, and the offence might carry a prison sentence as well
|
Using horn in silence zones
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
1000 |
Driving in the wrong direction on a one-way road
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
500 |
Creating obstruction for on-duty traffic police
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
1000 |
Indulging in racing on roads
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
5000 |
More than two people riding on a two-wheeler
|
Two-wheeler |
500 |
Talking or texting on the phone
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
1000 |
Parking in a no-parking zone
|
Four- and Two-wheeler |
1000 |
Also Read: How to Check And Pay Traffic E-Challan Online
Also Read: RTO Fine For Using Tinted Glass
Also Read: Jumping the Red Light: Fines and Payment Methods
Additional tips
- Before you purchase vehicle insurance, do not forget to read the policy document carefully. This will give you an idea about the inclusions and exclusions of the policy.
- Ensure that you carry all the necessary documents when driving your vehicle to avoid getting fined by the traffic authorities.
- Always ensure lane safety while driving, especially in inner city roads where overtaking or sudden turns can cause accidents.
- Get only genuine parts for your vehicle. Avoid going for cheap alternatives as they could cause considerable damage.
- Get your vehicle serviced from time to time to avoid any unnecessary malfunctions.
- If your car is damaged, you can get it serviced from a network garage of your car insurance*
- Do not compromise the performance of your bike by using low-grade fuel. Even though the cost of damages would be covered by your bike insurance policy, use the fuel type recommended by your insurer.*
- If you are planning to drive long-distance, get the tire pressure and engine functioning checked to avoid any unwanted mishaps.
- If you are planning to purchase a second-hand car or bike, always do thorough checks of the vehicle before you purchase it. You can get it through third-party surveyors who give you a detailed report of the vehicle’s conditions. This helps you in making an informed decision whether to purchase the vehicle or not.
- Avoid parking your vehicle in zones earmarked for emergency vehicles.
Also Read: Underage Driving Rules & Fines: A Complete Guide
Conclusion
If you are staying in Karnataka or are planning to stay there, remembering this list of fines might help maintain road safety at all times. Ensure safety for yourself and your vehicle by going for
vehicle insurance.
*Standard T&C apply
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.
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