What Is The Fine For Wrong-Side Entry On A One-Way Road?

Entering a one-way road from the wrong side is a serious traffic violation in India. This action not only disrupts the flow of traffic but also significantly increases the risk of accidents. The Motor Vehicles Act and related traffic rules enforce strict penalties to deter such behavior and promote road safety.

Legal Penalties and Fines

Violation Under the Motor Vehicles Act:

According to Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, entering a one-way road from the wrong side is considered a traffic violation. The rules clearly state that vehicles should follow the direction indicated by road signs to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent accidents.

Penalty for Wrong-Side Entry:

A driver who enters a one-way road from the wrong side may face a fine of ₹500 to ₹1,000 depending on the region and the severity of the violation. In some cases, repeated violations or negligence may result in more significant fines or even suspension of the vehicle’s registration.

Impact on Road Safety:

Entering from the wrong side can lead to head-on collisions, especially on busy roads. It disrupts the flow of traffic and creates confusion, increasing the chances of accidents. This violation can also delay emergency response vehicles, making it a serious safety concern.

Legal Enforcement:

Traffic police are authorized to stop vehicles and impose fines on those entering one-way roads incorrectly. In case of refusal to pay the fine or further violations, the authorities may impound the vehicle. If the violation results in an accident, the driver could face further charges for negligence or reckless driving.

Accident Consequences:

If entering a one-way road from the wrong side causes a collision or accident, the driver may face severe penalties, including higher fines or legal action under Section 304A (causing death by negligence) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The consequences of such a violation can extend beyond fines to involve criminal liability, especially if the accident results in serious injury or death.

Points on Driving License:

Repeated traffic violations, including entering a one-way road from the wrong side, can also lead to the accumulation of points on the driver’s license. If the points exceed the limit, the driver's license may be suspended or revoked.

Example:

In 2022, a car driver in Mumbai was fined ₹1,000 for entering a one-way road from the wrong side. The driver was seen driving against the traffic flow in a busy market area, causing inconvenience and endangering pedestrians and other vehicles. After being stopped by the traffic police, the driver was issued a fine and warned about the dangers of violating one-way road rules.