10 Surprising Traffic Violations You Didn’t Know Could Land You a Challan

We’ve all been there: cruising down the road, only to be flagged by traffic police for a violation we didn’t even realize existed. While speeding and signal-jumping are well-known offenses, India’s Motor Vehicles Act (2019) has introduced stricter penalties for obscure rules that catch drivers off guard. Worse, ignoring these fines can lead to blocked vehicle registrations, license suspensions, or even court summons.

But don’t panic! In this guide, we’ll uncover 10 surprising traffic violations that could land you a challan, along with tips to stay compliant. Plus, learn how to check your online traffic challan status in seconds and avoid legal headaches.

1. Honking in Silence Zones (Hospitals, Schools, Courts)

Violation: Using horns near designated “silence zones” (Rule 119 of Central Motor Vehicle Rules).
Penalty: ₹500 (first offense), ₹1,000 (repeat offenses).
Reality Check: Cities like Mumbai and Delhi strictly enforce this through signage and decibel meters.

2. Driving Without a Valid PUC Certificate

Violation: Missing or expired Pollution Under Control (PUC) certification.
Penalty: ₹10,000 (first offense), ₹20,000 (repeat offenses) under Section 190(2).
Pro Tip: Check your online traffic challan status via the CarInfo/Parivahan Portal if your PUC lapses.

3. Parking Within 5 Meters of a Pedestrian Crossing

Violation: Blocking zebra crossings or footpaths (Rule 15 of Parking Rules).
Penalty: ₹500–₹1,000 + possible vehicle tow.
Did You Know? In Delhi, 20% of challans are issued for illegal parking.

4. Overloading Two-Wheelers (3+ People on a Bike)

Violation: Carrying more than two people on a two-wheeler (Section 194).
Penalty: ₹2,000 + disqualification of license for 3 months.
Myth Busted: Even infants count as passengers!

5. Using Mobile Phones While Waiting at Signals

Violation: Holding a phone while driving, even when stationary (Section 177A).
Penalty: ₹5,000 (first offense), ₹10,000 (repeat offenses).
Clarification: Hands-free devices are allowed, but texting/scrolling is not.

Know more: Is Your Challan Amount Increasing Daily? How Late Fees Work

6. Driving with Pets in the Front Seat

Violation: Unrestrained pets in the driver’s area (Section 279 for “dangerous driving”).
Penalty: ₹500–₹1,000 (varies by state).
Safety Tip: Use pet seat belts or carriers in the rear seat.

7. Incorrect Number Plate Format

Violation: Non-standard fonts, colours, or decorative frames (Rule 50 & 51 of CMVR).
Penalty: ₹500–₹1,000.
Why It Matters: ANPR cameras (used for e challan check by vehicle number) can’t read non-compliant plates.

8. Not Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles

Violation: Failing to make way for ambulances, fire trucks, or police vehicles (Section 194E).
Penalty: ₹10,000 + license suspension.
Fact: This rule was emphasized post-2019 to save lives during emergencies.

9. Driving with a Loud or Modified Silencer

Violation: Excess noise (above 80 dB) from modified exhausts (Section 190).
Penalty: ₹1,000 (first offense), ₹2,000 (repeat offenses).
Data Point: Delhi Traffic Police issued 3,200+ challans for noisy silencers in 2023.

10. Dirty or Obstructed Number Plates

Violation: Mud-covered, faded, or hidden plates (Section 177).
Penalty: ₹500–₹1,000.
Tech Alert: AI cameras automatically flag obscured plates for e-challans.

How to Check & Pay Traffic Challans Online

Worried you’ve unknowingly violated a rule? Here’s how to check your traffic challan status instantly:

Via CarInfo

• Download the CarInfo app to check pending challans instantly.
• Get real-time updates, view challan details, and make payments securely.

Via Parivahan Portal

• Visit Parivahan e-Challan.
• Click “Check Challan Status” and enter your vehicle number or challan ID.

Delhi Traffic Police Website

• For Delhi traffic challan online checks, go to https://traffic.delhipolice.gov.in/
• Enter your vehicle number or challan ID to view and pay pending challans.

Pro Tip: Settle fines within 60 days to avoid late fees (up to 10% extra)!

Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Safe!

Traffic rules aren’t just about avoiding fines—they’re about protecting lives. With smarter e-challan systems and AI cameras, it’s easier than ever to get penalized for even minor oversights. Bookmark this guide, check your traffic challan status online regularly, and drive responsibly.