Most people view drinking as a means of enjoyment and fun. However, while you are allowed to have fun and enjoy yourselves, it is also necessary to ensure that it is not at the cost of others’ lives.
Drinking and driving is a serious offence in many countries, including India. If you choose to drink, it is necessary to ensure that you are not behind the wheel, as this could be a cause of grave danger to others. To prevent any injuries or fatalities related to drinking and driving, our legal system has significantly increased the fine for this offence.
How does the Drink and Drive Test Work?
- Upon being caught, the traffic police administers a breathalyser test.
- In case your blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeds 30 mg per 100 ml of blood, you are liable to strict penalties.
- Refusal to comply with these penalties can lead to extra penalties and immediate arrest, as well.
Fine for Drink and Drive
Under Section 185 of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, it is illegal to drive under the influence of any alcohol or drugs. In case you are found to be under the influence of either, while driving on the road, you are liable to strict penalties. Due to increasing cases of road accidents, the government has revised the fines for drunk driving, in hopes of preventing the repeated occurrence of these offences.
Let us see the respective penalties for drunk driving based on the number of offences committed by a person:
First Offence
If you are caught for the first time, the fine has significantly increased to deter offenders from repeating this offence. You are charged a fine of up to ₹10,000. You might also be liable to serve up to 6 months of imprisonment, at the discretion of the court. In some cases, it may also lead to the suspension of your license. This is to send out a clear message that there will be serious repercussions for offenders who think of repeating this criminal offence.
Second Offence
For second-time offenders, the penalties turn harsher. You will be subjected to paying a ₹15,000 fine, along with the possibility of a two-year jail term. The chances of your license getting suspended for a long time, or even cancelled, become imminent. The court deals more strictly with these cases, with higher chances of imprisonment possible. The government wants to ensure that repeated offenders are not let off the hook lightly, with stricter legal actions and financial penalties in place.
Repetitive Offence
Habitual or repeated offenders face the possibility of increased fines, every time they are caught. It could also lead to your licenses getting permanently revoked by authorities. In case of any accident caused by you while driving, it could lead to multiple years of imprisonment. That is why, as a precautionary measure, always choose to use public transport if you engage in drinking.
How does drinking and driving affect your car's insurance policy?
Drinking and driving can result in hefty fines, which also end up impacting your car insurance plan.
Rejection of claim
The car insurance company can reject your claim for vehicle damage or Personal Accident Cover in car insurance, in case you are involved in an accident.
Cancellation of insurance policy
Repeated offences can lead to your car insurance policy being cancelled.
Higher premiums
Once you receive penalties for drinking and driving, you are seen as a high-risk driver, which may lead to premiums at exorbitant rates, or refusal for coverage in the future by insurance companies.
Conclusion
In all, it is necessary to abide by the law and follow the traffic safety regulations, as prescribed by the government. Drinking and driving, while being a criminal offence, can also claim many lives, including your own. For this reason, the government has imposed stricter penalties in 2025 to deter any kind of harm caused due to this offence. Along with legal and financial implications, a penalty for drinking and driving results in your car’s insurance policy being impacted as well.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I get caught drinking and driving in India?
You may face fines up to ₹10,000, imprisonment, or even license suspension for the first offence.
How does the drink and drive test work?
Traffic police use a breathalyser to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC) to determine intoxication levels.
What are the penalties for repeat offences of drunk driving?
Second-time offenders face a ₹15,000 fine, possible two-year jail term, and risk of license cancellation.
Can drinking and driving affect my car insurance policy?
Yes, insurers can reject claims, cancel policies, or increase premiums for drivers penalized for drunk driving.
How can I avoid penalties for drinking and driving?
Always use public transport, taxis, or designated drivers to stay safe and compliant with traffic laws.
