New rules for hit-and-run accidents and what effect they may have on you
Hit and run is a serious crime that often results in fatal accidents. The Government of India has amended the Road Transport and Safety Act, of 2023 to deal strictly with such cases. Let us know about these new rules and how they may affect you if you are involved in a hit-and-run case.
What are the new rules?
- Strict punishment: Earlier, there was a maximum punishment of two years in hit-and-run cases. Under the new rule, drivers involved in such accidents can be jailed for up to 10 years.
- Fines also increased: Earlier, the maximum fine for hit-and-run cases was ₹5000. Now, the fine amount has been increased to ₹1 lakh.
- Mandatory accident reporting: If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, it is now your legal responsibility to inform the police immediately. Failure to do so may result in a jail term of up to 6 months or a fine of up to ₹10,000.
- It is important to help the victim: If you fail to help a person injured in a hit-and-run accident, you can face a jail term of up to 6 months or a fine of up to ₹10,000.
What is the purpose of the new rules?
The government believes the new rules will help reduce hit-and-run accidents. Strict punishment and fines will discourage drivers from driving recklessly and fleeing after an accident. Also, making it mandatory to report an accident and help the victim will increase the chances of the injured getting timely medical attention.
What should you do?
If you are a responsible driver, the new rules should not have any negative impact on you. Just keep these things in mind:
- Drive carefully: Avoid speeding and careless driving.
- Follow traffic rules: Following all traffic rules is not only important for your safety, but it also helps in preventing hit-and-run accidents.
- What to do in case of an accident: If you are involved in an accident, do not panic.
- First, make sure that you and everyone in your vehicle are safe. Then, immediately inform the police and provide first aid to the injured.
We hope that these new rules will increase safety on the roads of our country and reduce the number of hit-and-run accidents. Remember, driving responsibly on the road is not only important for your safety but also for the safety of others.
