WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE STOPPED BY A TRAFFIC POLICE IS A COMMON PROBLEM THAT EVERYONE HAS EXPERIENCED AT LEAST ONCE IN THEIR LIVES. A police officer’s job is to ensure that law and order are maintained in a society. And they are armed with the means and, at times, coercive, but necessary, powers to do so. The same principle holds true for traffic cops. A traffic cop’s primary responsibility is to ensure that traffic flows smoothly and to deter anyone from breaking the rules. There are times, however, when you are pulled over by the police for no apparent reason. In that case, it’s critical to understand your rights and what you should do if you’re confronted with a situation like this.
If a traffic cop stops you in India, he or she may ask for your license, though it is best to keep all of your documents in your vehicle. In addition, you must keep original copies of all documents. The following is a list of documents you should keep in your vehicle at all times:
- Registration Certificate(RC)
- Pollution Under Control (PUC)
- Driving License(DL)
- Car insurance policy
WHAT ARE THE RIGHTS OF TRAFFIC POLICE?
- A traffic cop has the authority to request that you to show all your documents or if there is any suspicion.
- In the event of a traffic violation, such as speeding or running a red light, the cop has the authority to seize your vehicle.
- A traffic cop has the authority to take your license if they suspect you of something. She or he is required to know.
- In the event of a traffic violation, such as speeding or running a red light, the cop has the authority to seize your vehicle.
- If you’re found to be under the influence of a prohibited drug, substance, or alcohol, a traffic cop has the authority to arrest you without a warrant
WHAT ARE YOUR RIGHTS IF YOU ARE STOPPED BY TRAFFIC POLICE?
- If a traffic cop stops you, you can always request that he or she show you his or her identification. You can make a note of their buckle number or name, and if the buckle is still missing, you can ask for their ID card. If the traffic cop refuses to show you their identification, you have the right to refuse to hand over your documents.
- When a police officer asks for your documents, you only need to present your driver’s license at that time, according to Section 130 of the Motor Vehicles Act. The decision to hand over the remaining documents is entirely up to you.
- If a police officer decides to confiscate your driver’s license, make sure you’re given a valid receipt issued by the Traffic Police against your license.
- The Traffic Police can’t tow your car away if there’s a human inside.
- If you believe you’ve been harassed by a traffic cop, you can file an online complaint or go to your local police station and explain what happened.
- A traffic cop can only issue challans if they have a government-issued challan book or an e-challan generator with them.
- If the police officer on the scene of the incident is a sub-inspector or higher authority, you can pay the challan right there and then.
- A police officer cannot compel you to exit the vehicle or remove your keys from the ignition.
IF YOU RECEIVE A TRAFFIC VIOLATION CHALLAN, WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR?
- If the traffic police issued you a challan or prosecution slip, make sure it includes the following information:
- The name and location of the courtroom where the trial will take place
- Specifics of the infraction/violation (s)
- The date of the trial when you are required to appear
- The alleged offender’s name and address
- The officer issuing the challan’s name and signature
- Documentation requirements in detail
IN INDIA, CAN TRAFFIC COPS STOP YOU FOR NO REASON?
Yes, of course. The primary responsibility of a traffic officer is to ensure road safety and to ensure that all vehicles on the road are following the rules. A traffic cop can pull you over for any reason, including suspicious driving, a traffic violation, or any other crime.
IS CARRYING DIGITAL DOCUMENTS VALID?
It is legal to carry your documents electronically and must be accepted as a legal form of documentation, according to a notice issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highway.
TRAFFIC CHALLAN VIOLATIONS & PENALITIES AND THEIR ASPECTS
In India, the fine for parking on zebra crossing is ₹1,000 after the amended Motor Vehicle Act. The fine for driving without a license is Rs 5,000 and may also include additional community service. Under Section 180, motorists using vehicles without a valid Registration Certificate (RC book) will have to pay Rs. 5000. Under Section 182, driving vehicles after the cancellation of Drivers’ License (DL) will attract a fine of Rs. 10,000. As per the new Motor Vehicle Act 2019, the fine for the first offense of driving without insurance policy is Rs. 2,000/- and/or imprisonment of up to 3 months. If vehicle owners are caught without a valid PUC certificate then they may face imprisonment up to six months or a fine of up to ₹10,000 or both. The fine for driving a two-wheeler without a helmet is set at Rs. 1,000 and the penalty can also be suspension of driving license or imprisonment for up to 3 months. If you do not follow a traffic signal it will attract a fine of Rs. 1000/-. Thus, violating the traffic laws attract heavy fine along with imprisonment. It is recommended to always carry required documents with you and not to break the rule like jumping signals etc.
