A points system for road offences?

Thursday, Feb 03, 2011




Jumping a traffic light or using cellphone or any other communication device that distract the attention of drivers could attract a fine of Rs 1,000 each, as per the recommendation made by the committee set up by the highways ministry.

The panel, which reviewed the existing Motor Vehicles Act, has recommended incorporation of stringent punitive provisions and heavy fine against traffic rule violators.

"The ministry will review the recommendations and take a decision soon as to whether we need a new Motor Vehicles Act," transport minister C P Joshi said after a copy of the report was submitted to him on Wednesday.

In its report, the committee -- headed by former road transport secretary S Sunder -- has suggested overhauling the existing Act to lessen road accidents.

It has mooted penalty and imprisonment for drink driving, which could be between six-month jail term and Rs 2,000 fine and a year in prison and Rs 10,000 fine, based on the level of alcohol found in bloodstream of drivers.

The committee has recommended point system for cognizable offences, and the driver would lose licence if s/he accumulates 12 points. It has proposed maximum punitive points for rash driving or speeding while in an inebriated state. Such offenders will get three points each per offence, and in the case of reckless driving, offenders would get four points for second and subsequent offences.

"Points awarded for an offence shall remain on record for three years from the date of issue. At any point, if the cumulative total of the point accrued by a driver crosses the limit of 12 points, the driving licence will be suspended for a year. If a driver, whose licence has been suspended, again accumulates 12 points, his licence shall be cancelled for five years,'' the committee has recommended.

The expert group has suggested that no person should use cellphone or any other communication device while driving. "The aim is to ensure that drivers' attention shouldn't get distracted," said Dinesh Mohan, a panel member.

Portability of number plates -- in case of vehicle re-registration in a different state -- has also been suggested. It has been proposed that from 2015 onwards all vehicles should renew their registrations annually.

The report has suggested specific tests and certification for each category of drivers.

Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Panel-moots-strict-penalty-against-traffic-rule-offenders/articleshow/7414146.cms