Maintaining accountability on the roads is crucial, especially when accidents occur. Sections 187, 188, and 189 of the Motor Vehicles Act outline specific provisions and punishments for offenses related to accidents, including hit and run incidents. This article explores the legal consequences for failing to comply with duties after an accident, abetting such offenses, and engaging in racing or trials of speed in public places.
Section 187 MV Act: Punishment for Offenses Related to Accident
1. Failure to Comply with Duties After an Accident:
- Whoever fails to comply with the provisions of section 132 of Motor Vehicles Act (Duty to stop when asked by police if the vehicle is involved in an accident), section 133 (Duty to show/tell name, address or show license), or section 134 of Motor Vehicles Act (Duty of driver to help injured victim due to an accident and also duty to inform the police) faces the following penalties:
- Imprisonment for up to six months: The severity of the offense is reflected in the potential six-month imprisonment.
- Fine up to five thousand rupees: Monetary penalties underscore the consequences of neglecting duties after an accident.
- Repeat Offenses: Subsequent convictions may lead to imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of ten thousand rupees, or both.
Section 188 of Motor Vehicles Act: Abetment of an Offense
2. Abetting Offenses:
- Individuals found abetting offenses related to accidents will face the same punishment as for the original offense. This reinforces the legal consequences for those contributing to hit and run incidents.
Section 189 of Motor Vehicles Act : Racing and Trial of Speeds Between Vehicles
3. Racing and Trial of Speed:
- Engaging in a race or trial of speed between motor vehicles in any public place without the written consent of the State Government results in the following penalties:
- Imprisonment for up to three months: A strong deterrent against dangerous driving practices.
- Fine up to five thousand rupees: Monetarily penalizing those involved in illegal racing or speed trials.
- Subsequent Offenses: Repeat offenses may lead to imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of ten thousand rupees, or both.
Causing Death by Negligence
4. Rash or Negligent Act Causing Death (Section 106 Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita):
- Individuals causing death by a rash or negligent act, not amounting to culpable homicide, face imprisonment up to five years and a fine. Medical practitioners performing procedures may face imprisonment up to two years and a fine.
5. Rash and Negligent Driving Causing Death and not reporting to authorities:
- Causing death by rash and negligent driving without reporting it to the authorities leads to imprisonment up to ten years and a fine under Section 106 Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Conclusion:
Hit and run incidents and offenses related to accidents have serious legal consequences under the Motor Vehicles Act snd Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Sections 187, 188, and 189 of MV Act and Section 106 BNS emphasize the importance of accountability, responsibility, and adherence to traffic rules to ensure the safety of all road users. Individuals must be aware of these provisions to contribute to a culture of responsible driving and prevent hit and run incidents on our roads.
Hit and Run: Punishment, fine/penalty under Section 106 BNS and Motor Vehicles Act (MV Act)
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