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Underage driving is a huge problem in India that children and parents must clearly understand. During the past two years or so, the Indian government has enforced severe penalties that limit this issue not only upon underage drivers but even extend it to hold the parents or guardians liable for the same. Here's what they are and the liabilities of underage driving.
The term underage driving is used for those who are below the age to drive. In the case of India, the age one attains to drive also depends on the type of vehicle one is driving.
Age:
Anyone who drives under this legal age of driving is considered an underage driver. They also attract fees in terms of penalties.
The Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 was amended in the year 2019. Under these amended provisions, some stringent punishments have been included against underage drivers. Some of them are as follows:
These punishments are an attempt to deter the juvenile from driving without a valid license.
Indian law also vindicates the parents or guardians for abating a minor from driving:
The severe punishments are linked to the growing number of road accidents in India as a consequence of underage driving. Underage driving accounted for nearly 1.2% of the road accidents in the country. Underage driving is largely careless, endangering not only the minor but other road users as well.
Apart from the fine and imprisonment, there are other implications of underage driving:
Parents and guardians should take preventive measures so that their children do not drive illegally. This may include:
In case a challan (fine) has been wrongly issued, the parents can appeal on the Parivahan website via the virtual court feature. They will be allowed to file for an online hearing that will be reviewed by a magistrate to determine whether or not the fine or penalty was issued fairly.
Underage driving is much more than a mere technical violation. It's a serious safety issue on the roads. It is accompanied by very serious punishment for minors as well as their parents, in the form of heavy fines and imprisonment, both for allowing and indulging in underage driving. All those concerned must understand these laws and steps to avoid such situations.
It is through India's new Motor Vehicles Act that the country speaks out strongly; underage driving poses a grave danger and will be dealt with stern punishment to ensure highway safety for all.
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