New traffic rule alert: Five violations a year can lead to licence suspension

New Delhi: Drivers who commit five or more traffic violations within a year will have their driving licences suspended under new Motor Vehicle Rules issued by the Central Government. The rules came into force on January 1.

The licence can be suspended for up to three months, with the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) empowered to take action. Violations from previous years will not be taken into account. The rules also stipulate that the licence holder must be given an opportunity to present their case before any suspension is ordered.

A total of 24 offences listed under the Motor Vehicles Act will be considered for licence suspension. These include stopping a vehicle on public roads, unauthorised parking, vehicle theft, assaulting passengers and unlawfully restraining individuals, among the 24 violations specified as grounds for suspension.

Offences such as overspeeding, riding without a helmet, not wearing a seat belt, and jumping traffic signals are also included. Irrespective of whether the offences are deemed minor or serious, action will now be initiated once the number of violations exceeds five in a year.