If you regularly drive a car or a bike, a small wrong driving habit, just do not stop until the fine... In fact, it can even lead to imprisonment, especially under the stringent penalties of India's new Motor Vehicles Act and the Traffic Rules 2025.
In the blog post, we'll talk about:
A "daily driving habit" that can lead to a ban on a criminal offence Their legal background (latest Indian law) If caught, can there be a fine, jail or license ban Real world examples of police action and cases Safe driving tips that can help you avoid serious trouble
1. A habit that is common, but also very dangerous
The most common and invisible everyday driving habit that people do, and which has now even been banned a criminal offence, is:
Use of mobile phone while driving
Logs often drive while making phone calls, checking WhatsApp, notifications, or scrolling social media - thinking "right for a second." But according to the new traffic rules of 2025 in India, it has become a serious crime.
Legal advice
Why is it dangerous?
eyes turned away from the road.
Mind is numbed
The reaction time is slow.
Increases the risk of accidents
With a lot of potholes and unexpected obstacles, even a distraction of just 1-2 seconds can lead to a major accident.
2. The latest legal position - Use of mobile phone while driving
Under India's Motor Vehicles Act / Traffic Law 2025, using a phone while driving is now on the list of heavy penalties, including:
Penalty (fine) There is no prison section specific to the first offence, but community service or strict enforcement is possible. Okay earlier there was ₹500, now there is up to ₹5,000 - a 10-fold increase.
Legal advice
And it's not just limited to mobile phones. This includes using the phone in any way (text, social media, camera).
3.When can this habit lead to jail?
The use of mobile is not limited to fine- In some cases if an accident occurs and someone loses their life or is seriously injured, then:
The traffic police can register an FIR.
The scope of criminal negligence (Section 304A IPC) may apply
Result = Jail + Heavy Penalty
Insurance can also be cancelled.
Note: If someone dies in an accident and the police can prove that "the driver's distraction was caused by the phone," criminal charges could follow.
4. New Traffic Rules 2025 - Overall Penalties List
As of 2025, the following rules apply:
The major penalties include:
Driving while intoxicated - a fine of ₹10,000 + imprisonment of up to 6 months; Repeat = ₹15,000 + imprisonment up to 2 years.
Failure to wear a helmet will lead to a fine of Rs 1,000 + suspension of licence.
Rs 1,000 fine for not wearing seat belt.
Use of mobile phone while driving - Rs 5,000
No license - ₹5,000.
No insurance - ₹2,000.
No PUCC (Pollution Under Control) certificate 10,000 and / or imprisonment.
Overloading vehicles - ₹20,000 fine.
Underage driving - ₹25,000 fine + 3 years imprisonment, ban on license up to 25 years.
These fines have been made stricter to reduce reckless driving and improve road safety.
5. Actual police action (evidence of road safety enforcement).
Recent enforcement stories show the strict implementation of the laws:
The mobile court in Jaipur imposed a fine of ₹1 crore +, on traffic violators and even sent some drivers to jail for the offence. -Times of India
Parents are also getting the possibility of FIR + ₹25,000 fine + jail for underage driving in Nagpur. -Times of India
Dangerous activities like performing stunts on the road and blocking roads, arrests and suspension of licences took place in Raipur. - According to The Times of India
6.Why is it a crime to use a mobile phone?
Generally, using mobile phones while driving falls under the non-bailable offence category. But if:
If someone dies in a crash, negligence is proved, third-party damage is caused, insurance investigation should be started.
The police and the court together also impose IPC sections (such as criminal negligence) that can lead to jail. So don't take this habit lightly. )
7. Common Examples of Risky Phone Use
Checking WhatsApp while waiting at signal
Typing reply in slow traffic
Recording short videos / selfies
Browsing reels on signal
Everyone's risk is the same. Taking eyes off the road + slow reaction time.
8. Always use hands-free Bluetooth for safe driving
Don't touch your phone when the signal is red
GPS can be turned on before starting.
Don't improve navigation while on the go... Stop and set
Keep notifications silent while driving
Do Not Disturb On
Encourage passengers to use their phones
Co-driver can manage calls
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Can using a mobile phone lead to jail time with a fine?
Answer: Yes, heavy fines and imprisonment are possible in an accident negligence case.
Question: What is the penalty for using a mobile phone in 2025?
Answer: A fine of up to Rs 5,000 will be imposed for using mobile phones. - According to legal advice.
Question: Is it a violation of the law to just look at the signal on the phone?
Answer: Yes - Traffic Police does strict enforcement, crime counts even at signals.
Question: Can a driver's license be suspended for using a mobile phone?
Answer: Licence action may be possible in case of repeated offence, negligent driving.
10. Conclusion
We're all drivers first. When traffic laws are not visible, their impact is life-changing. Even a small distraction from the mobile phone:
Jail can create risk for you Rs.5,000 + may be fine Accident may lead to legal battle Insurance claim may be rejected
Therefore, keep your eyes on the road. Safe driving = safe life + peace of mind.
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