Have you received challan with zero fine? MVD warns about danger

KOLLAM: Would you be happy to receive a challan with zero fine after committing a major traffic violation? Most answers would scream ‘yes’ but wait a little before jumping in joy. What is in store is not something you would appreciate.

According to MVD, the penalty amount is marked as zero in some challans due to the difficulty in determining the total amount for the violation. However, a hefty fine will have to be paid later, or else the case will go its course into revenue recovery. The fine can also be settled through court proceedings. Not all traffic violations can be settled with a fine. A strong violation committed can lead to criminal charges and possible imprisonment.

It is only possible for judges to gauge the level of punishment after going through a detailed trial of the case. It is due to this uncertainty that many of the challans come with zero fines. This should not be considered as a means to escape from paying a fine.

In case you receive e-challans without penalty, contact the concerned RTO enforcement for further details or wait for court proceedings. As of now, the government is yet to receive crores as fines for the traffic violations committed in the state.

What can invite fines?

• Stop the vehicle on zebra lines at traffic signals

• Dangerous driving

• Failure to follow lane traffic

• Disregard instructions at signals and roundabouts

• Dangerous overtaking

• Driving in a manner that obstructs the smooth flow of traffic

As per a new rule, people who are yet to pay their fines will not be given the smoke test certificate.