Underage driving is a growing problem in India, with many young people getting behind the wheel without proper training or experience. Of late this hazard has also emerged
in our Malibu Township.
Attempts by a few law abiding residents, who somehow managed to stop and advise such errant underage children, has only resulted in a defiant look and driving away in a huff!
This article is an advisory and refresher for residents on the laid rules & regulations of this subject. Under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 to ride a gearless motorbike that is up to 50 CC you need to be above 16 years of age and to ride a motorbike with gear and for a car you need to be 18 years and above. Anyone caught driving below this age group is considered an underage driver and is subject to fines and penalties.
A valid driving licence is mandatory.
Driving without a valid license is an offence that can attract major fines and penalties, followed by the vehicle getting impounded.This can also negatively affect your vehicle insurance claim.
In addition to fines, underage drivers may also face legal action. If an underage driver is involved in an accident, they can be held liable for any damages or injuries that occur. They may also face criminal charges, including reckless driving, driving without a license, and endangering the lives of others. To combat underage driving, the government of India has implemented several measures. One such measure is the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, which states that any minor caught driving a vehicle can be sent to a juvenile home for up to three years.
It is important to note that the penalties for underage driving not only apply to the driver but also to the vehicle owner. If a minor is caught driving a vehicle that belongs to someone else, the owner of the vehicle may also be held responsible and face heavy fines and penalties. Based on seriousness of the case, they might also face a 3-year prison sentence as well. Along with this, the vehicle’s registration will be cancelled for the duration of a year.
Driving On the Wrong Side
The other serious hazard being faced is of the speeding Delivery Boys & Construction workers on their two wheelers with wrong side driving, dangerous overtaking and being totally unmindful of the Speed Barriers/Breakers,etc. This very unfortunately also applies to a number of our residents driving their cars!
A periodic check of driving licenses and at all entry and exit gates by our Security Staff and possibly by involving the Haryana Traffic Police, besides other measures, will go a long way in ensuring road safety in our township.
