When navigating the bustling roads of India on your two-wheeler, ensuring a safe and legal ride requires more than just a helmet and a tank full of fuel. Understanding the essential documents needed for a hassle-free journey is paramount. Whether manoeuvring through city traffic or embarking on a long-distance adventure, having the proper paperwork isn’t just prudent; it’s legally mandatory. This blog is a comprehensive guide to the necessary documents for a seamless bike ride, ensuring compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act 1988. Here, we will tell you about documents to carry while driving a two-wheeler.
Documents to Carry While Driving Bike
Before heading out for a ride, make sure to have the following mandatory documents to carry while driving a bike:
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Bike Registration Certificate (RC)
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) registers your bike, proving its registration with details such as the registration number, make, model, and owner information contained in the RC.
A valid DL is legally required to ride a two-wheeler on public roads. It specifies the type of bike the holder is authorised to ride, whether with or without gear. Carrying your DL is mandatory, and digital copies via government apps like DigiLocker are acceptable.
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Two-Wheeler Insurance Policy
A bike insurance policy is compulsory for riding on public roads. If opted for, it serves as proof of insurance coverage, including Third Party and Own Damage. The policy includes the registration number, insurance company, coverage type, policy tenure, and limits.
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Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC)
The PUCC is an emission certificate indicating that your bike's pollution levels are within permissible limits. It includes the bike's registration number and is essential for legal riding on Indian roads.
A fitness certificate is necessary for bikes older than 15 years for continued road legality. Renewal of the fitness certificate is required every two years.
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Medical Certificate (if applicable)
Riders above 50 may need to produce a medical certificate certifying their fitness to ride a two-wheeler. It ensures that they are physically capable of handling the vehicle safely.
Apart from the necessary documents, it would be best to consider following basic traffic rules while riding. Adhering to traffic rules is crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road:
Always wear a helmet, and ensure any pillion rider does the same.
If necessary, bring essential documents such as a Driver’s License (DL), Registration Certificate (RC), Insurance Policy, Pollution under Control Certificate (PUCC) and Medical or Fitness Certificate.
Keep to the left on a two-way road, maintain lane discipline and follow road signs diligently.
Slow down at intersections, junctions, corners and pedestrian crossings and always obey speed limits.
Use hand signals and turn indicators to communicate your intentions to other road users.
Ensure your bike’s registration number is visible, and follow proper vehicle maintenance for roadworthiness.
Use the horn sparingly and avoid unnecessary honking.
Do not overtake unsafely, and avoid parking near junctions, on flyovers, bridges or footpaths.
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Importance of Two-Wheeler Insurance
Beyond legal requirements, two-wheeler insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind:
Insurance coverage offers financial assistance for repairs and liabilities in case of breakdowns or accidents.
Bike insurance is mandatory; carrying it while riding ensures compliance with legal requirements.
Insurance covers theft, damages due to natural or manmade calamities and third-party liabilities.
New-age insurance companies offer hassle-free online processes for purchasing and renewing bike insurance.
Conclusion
Riding a bike in India demands a thorough understanding of mandatory documents and traffic rules. Compliance ensures legal adherence and creates a safer and more responsible road environment. From essential documents to basic traffic etiquette, being a responsible rider is not just a legal obligation but a commitment to personal safety and the well-being of fellow road users.
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.
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