When driving on Indian roads, it is necessary to follow a basic set of traffic rules to ensure your safety as well as that of others on the road. Driving on the wrong side of the road has contributed to being one of the major causes of accidents in the country.
As per the 2022 MoRTH Reports, wrong-side driving is the 2nd highest cause of death on National Highways, accounting for 5.3% of total accidents (After Overspeeding). Government data for 2020 reported 20,228 accidents due to wrong-side driving, resulting in 7,332 deaths, and in 2021, these numbers rose to 21,491 accidents and 8,122 deaths. These incidents account for over 5% of total road fatalities each year.
Charges or Penalty for Driving on Wrong Side of the Road
- In most states, the standard challan is around ₹1,000 for two-wheelers and ₹2,000 for four-wheelers. (All states have different challan rules; refer to your state transport department for the exact challan.)
- Repeated or severe violations may lead to suspension of the driving licence for 3–6 months.
- The traffic police in the country have been extremely vigilant, and the hefty fines have resulted in the citizens taking traffic rules seriously and driving responsibly.
| Amendment / Rule | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Jan Vishwas Act 2023 (effective 2025) | Higher penalties, more compoundable offences, and centralised oversight |
| Draft Rules 2025 | ABS mandate for 2-wheelers, helmet requirement, and hydrogen vehicle registration |
| Fifth Amendment Rules 2022 | Timelines for accident claim processes |
| Amendment Act 2019 | Safety ratings, digital enforcement, compensation fund, safety boards |
| Proposed (2024–25) | MACT deadline, motorbike contract carriage regulation, aggregator rules |
Tips to avoid traffic violations and fines
Always Carry Valid Documents
Wear Safety Gear at All Times
- Seatbelts are mandatory for both front and rear passengers.
- Helmets must be worn by both rider and pillion on two-wheelers, and they should comply with ISI standards.
- Non-compliance can cost you ₹1,000–₹2,000 fines plus licence suspension.
Follow Lane Discipline & Road Rules
- Always drive on the left side of the road unless overtaking.
- Avoid wrong-side driving, which is considered dangerous driving and is heavily fined.
- Slow down at intersections, crossings, and pedestrian zones to prevent accidents.
Adhere to Speed Limits & Overtaking Rules
- Exceeding speed limits can cost ₹1,000–₹2,000 (two-wheelers/light vehicles) and up to ₹5,000 for heavy vehicles.
- Overtake only from the right and avoid risky manoeuvres. Rash or negligent driving can attract ₹5,000 fine and/or imprisonment.
Respect Emergency Vehicles & Traffic Flow
Follow Parking Rules Strictly
- Don’t park at entrances, footpaths, near traffic lights, or crossings.
- Wrong parking can attract fines between ₹500–₹2,000 and towing of your vehicle.
Stay Sober & Never Bribe
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in ₹10,000 fine, 6 months imprisonment, or licence suspension.
- Trying to bribe a traffic officer is a punishable offence under the IPC and can land you in bigger legal trouble.
Learner’s Licence Rules
Keep your driving licence, vehicle RC, insurance, and PUC certificate either in physical form or on the mParivahan / DigiLocker app. Failing to produce documents can lead to fines up to ₹5,000.
Always give way to ambulances, fire engines, and police vehicles. Blocking their way can lead to penalties and even imprisonment in case of loss of life due to delay.
If driving with a learner’s licence, ensure you are accompanied by a person with a valid driving licence and have an L-board displayed on your vehicle.
New traffic rules in India 2025
Following are some of the new traffic rules implemented in India in the year 2025
Hefty Fines & Stricter Penalties (Effective March 1, 2025)
- Fine amounts for several violations have increased up to 10×, reflecting a zero-tolerance stance
Doubling Penalties When Children Are Onboard
- Drivers committing traffic violations while carrying children may soon face double fines.
- A points-based driver behaviour monitoring system and potential licence renewal tests are also proposed for added accountability.
State-Level Enforcement Intensifies Against Serial Violators
- In Lucknow, authorities now plan licence suspensions, vehicle deregistration, and seizure for chronic offenders, especially those with more than five challans or over 100 violations within a year.
FASTag Annual Pass for Highway Commutes
- Starting August 15, 2025, motorists can opt for a ₹3,000 annual FASTag, offering 200 toll-free trips or unlimited travel on national highways and expressways. This aims to reduce congestion and promote cashless movement.
How to Pay Traffic Challan For Wrong Side Driving
Here is a step-by-step guide to pay challans for driving wrong side of the road:
- Visit the Official Portal by going to the Parivahan e-Challan website - https://echallan.parivahan.gov.in
- Enter your details and click on “Check Challan Status”
- Enter Challan Number or Vehicle Number or Driving Licence Number
- View pending challans with details like violation type, date, and penalty amount
- Select the challan you want to pay, like driving on the wrong side of the road, and click on “Pay Now”
- Make payment through a secure payment gateway using Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI
- Receive confirmation after successful payment and download the digital receipt for future reference.
Conclusion
Driving on the wrong side of the road is not just a traffic violation but a serious risk to life and safety. It causes confusion, increases the chances of head-on collisions, and often leads to fatal accidents. While penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act are heavy, the bigger loss is to human life and property. Having a valid two wheeler insurance policy for your car or bike may help cover damages in case of an accident, but it cannot undo the consequences of reckless driving. Responsible driving, following road rules, and staying on the correct side of the road ensure both safety and compliance. Ultimately, safe roads begin with disciplined drivers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the punishment for wrong-way driving?
Driving on the wrong side is a traffic offence under the Motor Vehicles Act. The penalty includes a fine ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 (depending on the state), and in repeated cases, it may also lead to suspension of your driving licence.
What happens if you're on the wrong side of the road?
Wrong-side driving increases the risk of head-on collisions, confusion for other drivers, traffic congestion, and is one of the leading causes of fatal road accidents in India.
What is the fine for driving on the wrong side?
The fine is generally ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 for cars and bikes, but it may be higher in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru where stricter penalties apply.
What is the wrong side of the road?
In India, vehicles must drive on the left side of the road. Using the opposite lane against the flow of traffic is considered wrong-side driving.
Is left steering illegal in India?
Yes. India follows right-hand drive (steering on the right, driving on the left side of the road). Vehicles with left-hand steering (made for right-side driving countries) are not permitted on Indian roads unless specially approved.
Which section is for the wrong-side driving?
Wrong-side driving falls under Section 177 & 184 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, dealing with general traffic violations and dangerous driving.
