With the widespread use of mobile devices, the dangers of using them while driving have become a significant concern for road safety. Section 184 of the Motor Vehicles Act addresses this issue, imposing fines and penalties for the use of handheld communication devices while driving. This article explores the practical implications of this regulation, emphasizing the importance of staying hands-free on the road.
Using Handheld Communications Devices While Driving (Section 184 - (c)):
1. Fine: Not Less Than One Thousand Rupees but May Extend to Five Thousand Rupees:
- Individuals caught using handheld communication devices like mobile phones while driving face a fine ranging from one thousand rupees to five thousand rupees. This monetary penalty underscores the gravity of distracted driving and aims to discourage such behavior.
2. Imprisonment: Not Less Than Six Months but May Extend to One Year, or Both:
- In addition to the fine, Section 184 mandates imprisonment for a duration not less than six months and extending up to one year, or a combination of both. This reinforces the severity of the offense and emphasizes the legal consequences for distracted driving.
Practical Implications and Circumstances:
1. Distraction on the Road:
- Using handheld communication devices diverts attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents. Practical circumstances may include texting, talking, or engaging in any form of communication that requires handling the device while driving.
2. Decreased Reaction Time:
- Engaging with a mobile device while driving reduces a driver's reaction time to unexpected events. This poses a danger to the driver, passengers, and others on the road.
3. Traffic Signal and Stop-and-Go Situations:
- Instances where drivers use mobile devices while waiting at traffic signals or in stop-and-go traffic are common. However, even in these situations, the penalties apply, as distracted driving can lead to delayed responses and accidents.
4. Increased Risk for Pedestrians:
- Pedestrian crossings and areas with heavy foot traffic become more hazardous when drivers are distracted by mobile devices. The fines and imprisonment associated with this offense aim to protect pedestrians and ensure road safety.
It must be noted that talking through a bluetooth device in a car is not covered under the ambit of Section 184 as it only talks about use of handheld devices while driving. Listening songs through airpods or bluetooth device while driving is also not covered under MV Act. Hence, it can be said that there is no explicit section under the Motor Vehicles Act at the moment which penalises the use of bluetooth device which driving.
Can you use of bluetooth device while driving? Can you use airpods/bluetooth driving a scooty/bike or a two wheeler? Punishment, fine and penalty under Motor Vehicle Act (MV Act)
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