What Is the Fine for Not Wearing a Helmet While Riding a Two-Wheeler?

Wearing a helmet while riding a two-wheeler is a critical safety measure to protect riders from serious injuries in case of accidents. In India, it is mandatory by law for all two-wheeler riders to wear a helmet. Failure to comply with this regulation results in penalties to encourage road safety and reduce traffic-related fatalities.

Fine for Not Wearing a Helmet:

Fine for Riders:

The fine for not wearing a helmet while riding a two-wheeler is typically ₹1,000.

Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act mandates that all riders, including those riding a motorbike or scooter, must wear a IS-certified helmet. This law is applicable to both the rider and the passenger (if there is one).

Repeat Offenders:

For repeat offenders who are caught multiple times for not wearing a helmet, the fines can be increased or they may face further legal action. In some cases, if the same individual continues to violate helmet rules, their driving license may be temporarily suspended or revoked for repeated violations.

Fines for Passengers:

If the passenger is not wearing a helmet, the rider can be fined as well. The penalty for passenger non-compliance is the same as for the rider, i.e., ₹1,000.

Both the rider and passenger are expected to wear helmets for their safety and to avoid penalties.

Other Penalties:

Traffic Police Checks: During routine traffic checks, if a rider is found without a helmet, the police will impose the fine. In cases where the rider is unable to pay the fine immediately, they may be issued a challan (traffic ticket), which they need to pay within a stipulated time.

Helmet Quality: The helmet worn must meet the ISI (Indian Standard Institute) certification for safety. If a rider is caught wearing a non-certified helmet or a damaged helmet, they may face additional penalties or fines.

Example:

Suppose a rider is stopped by the police while riding a scooter without wearing a helmet in a city like Mumbai. The rider will be fined ₹1,000 under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act. If the rider is caught again for the same violation within a short period, the fine may increase, and the rider may even be warned about the possibility of license suspension for repeated violations. If there is a passenger on the scooter who is also not wearing a helmet, the rider will have to pay an additional ₹1,000 fine for the passenger’s non-compliance.

Importance of Wearing a Helmet:

Prevents Injuries: Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries during accidents. Studies have shown that helmets save thousands of lives every year by protecting the brain from trauma.

Legal Requirement: Helmets are not only a safety measure, but they are also legally required. Failing to wear one can lead to fines, penalties, and more severe consequences in case of repeated offenses.

Insurance Claims: If a rider does not wear a helmet and is involved in an accident, they may face complications in insurance claims as non-compliance with safety rules could affect the coverage.