Essential Traffic Rules Every Car Driver in India Should Know

Last updated: 05 Feb 2025

Road mishaps are a major source of concern for both citizens and the government in India. According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, every 100 road crashes in 2017, 2018, and 2019 resulted in 32, 34, and 35 deaths, respectively. To curb the number of road mishaps and lower the death rate due to accidents, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has laid down several road safety rules in India. Since the number of vehicles on the road is increasing with each passing day, it is important to educate ourselves on various road safety and traffic rules in India. Today, we will look at some important four-wheeler traffic rules in India.

Importance of Traffic Rules in India

Traffic rules make roads safer and ensure a smooth traffic flow, making driving a hassle-free experience for all those on the go.

1. Traffic rules decrease the risk of accidents and injuries.
2. It prevents congestion of roads.
3. Strict traffic rules make commuters follow them, thus protecting them from unnecessary fines.
4. Traffic rules quite literally save the lives of drivers, passengers, and bystanders.

Top 10 most important traffic rules for car drivers

1. Do not drink and drive

Drinking and driving may look like fun but it is far more dangerous not just to self but for others too. Besides risking the lives of people on the road, co-passengers and self, being caught driving while inebriated can land you in big trouble with authorities.

What do four-wheeler traffic rules in India have to say about drunken driving? 

• According to Indian law, if you are found driving with a blood-alcohol level of more than 0.03% in your body, then you are breaking the law. 

• The permissible limit for alcohol is 30mg per 100ml of blood. 

• If you are found drinking and driving, you will be penalized for an amount ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000. 
  

Drunken driving also attracts imprisonment for a period ranging from 7 months to 4 years.

2. Car Insurance

According to the MV Act of 1981, driving without minimum coverage in the form of third-party liability cover can attract penalties. If your car is not insured or if your car insurance has expired and you are still driving the uninsured car, the traffic authority can fine you for Rs 2,000. If the same offense is committed again, a penalty of up to Rs 4,000 can be imposed.

3. Always wear your seat belt

Don't call yourself a safe driver if you don't wear your seat belt around your chest and waist habitually. Driving a car with a seat belt not only ensures your safety but is also mandatory under the law. If you are caught breaking this car traffic rule, you could face a fine of up to Rs 1,000.

4. Don't use a mobile phone while driving

Using a cell phone while operating the steering wheel can cause distraction and lead to an accident. According to the new MV rules that came into effect on 1 October 2020, the driver can use his or her mobile phone only as a navigational device. If you are caught talking on the phone or for any purpose other than navigation, you will be fined for an amount up to Rs 5,000. Using a phone while driving can attract imprisonment for a year.

5. Avoid over-speeding

Have you ever noticed a highway speedometer? If yes, you may have also noticed the red display indicating that you exceeded the speed limit. Over-speeding your car can result in a fine of Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000. The over-speeding fine depends upon the size of your vehicle.

6. Follow traffic signals

In this fast-paced world, everyone is in a rush, and you are not alone. Failure to obey traffic signals can result in a tragic collision. In addition, jumping red signals is prohibited, and violating this traffic rule can result in a fine of up to Rs 5,000 or imprisonment of one year. Apart from the signal, also keep your wheels behind the zebra crossing.

7. Make way for emergency vehicles

Keep your ears alert when driving and as soon as you hear sirens, instantly give a pass to the emergency vehicle. According to section 194E of the MV Act, not granting a pass to the hospital ambulance, fire ambulance, and other emergency vehicle is illegal. If you fail to do so, you could face a fine of up to Rs 10,000.

8. Number plate

While driving your car, make sure your number plate is clearly visible. Driving with a broken or damaged registration plate is illegal and is considered a serious offense.

9. Always keep your driving license handy

Driving a four-wheeler without a valid driver's license in your car or a digital version in a digital locker is unlawful in India and can result in a fine of up to Rs 5,000. Also, keep other essential documents such as RC, PUC, and insurance papers with you at all times while driving.

10. Rash driving

Rash driving can lead to a severe car crash. If you enjoy speeding and overtaking cars for no reason, you are encouraging authorities to penalize you. In India, reckless driving is punishable by a fine of Rs 5,000.

Importance of Car Insurance Policy

A Car insurance policy is not just a legal necessity but also a safety measure for the vehicle and a useful step in protecting your well-being and financial health.  

1. Indian Motor Vehicle Act 1988 mandates all drivers to at least have a third-party vehicle insurance policy.
2. Insurance helps cover third-party liabilities after an accident.
3. Insurance compensates for theft and damages dues to accidents and natural and human-made calamities.
4. With some insurances giving a cashless option, you can save money while getting useful repairs for your car at a network garage.

FAQs

1. What happens if I break a traffic rule?

   There are fines and legal measures such as the seizure of vehicles, suspension of licences, and, in extreme cases, imprisonment for breaking traffic rules in India.

2. Is wearing a seatbelt mandatory for passengers?

   Yes, Indian traffic rules mandate that all passengers, including at the rear, should have seat belts on for safety.

3. When to renew my car insurance policy?

   Usually, car insurance policies are valid for a year and need to be renewed after that.

4. Can I drive my car without original documents?

   If you have a digital copy of your vehicle documents, you can drive your car and show it to authorities if asked during a vehicle check.

Conclusion

Now that you are aware of road safety rules in India, follow them to avoid any penalties or fatalities on the road. Be a responsible citizen by adhering to traffic rules and making roads safer.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.