What is Section 184 of the Motor Vehicle Act?

The Motor Vehicles Act came into existence for traffic management, penalties, and punishments for traffic violations. To ensure strict adherence and discipline, the Indian Government established the Motor Vehicle Act 1988. Under this Act, various kinds of guidelines are covered for road traffic management, including licensing provisions, motor vehicle registrations, motor insurance, liabilities, penalties, and more.

One important Section of this Act is Section 184, which deals with penalties for dangerous driving. After the 2019 amendment, penalties under Section 184 of the Motor Vehicle Act became more rigid and also included imprisonment.

Overview of Section 184 of the MV Act

Section 184 of the Motor Vehicles Act pertains to the penalties for dangerous driving. It states that whoever drives a motor vehicle in such a manner that is dangerous to the public shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term period that may extend to one year or with a fine/penalty which may extend to one thousand rupees or both. Also, repeat offenders may face imprisonment for a term that may extend to two years, along with a penalty that may extend up to Rs. 10,000. 

Offences Under Section 184 of the Motor Vehicle Act

The offences under Section 184 aim to deter individuals from engaging in reckless driving behaviours that endanger the lives and safety of others on the road. The law emphasises the importance of responsible and safe driving practices by holding drivers accountable for their actions and imposing appropriate penalties. Mentioned below are the offences that come under dangerous driving:

  • Jumping a red light
  • Violating a stop sign
  • Using phones and other devices while driving.
  • Driving against the flow of traffic
  • Overtaking or passing other vehicles in a wrongful manner
  • Dangerous driving causing grievous hurt to any person

Penalties of the Motor Vehicle Act Section 184

The penalties under Section 184 vary depending on the severity of the offence and the harm caused. 

Section 184 of the motor vehicle act fine is enlisted in detail below:

  • For the first offence, the 184 MV Act imposes imprisonment for up to six months, which can be extended to a year, as well as a 1,000 fine or both.
  • A second or subsequent offence committed within three years of the conduct of a previous similar offence will result in up to two years in prison, a heavy 10,000 fine, or both.
  • Sec 184 of the Motor Vehicle Act is applied only after specific conditions have been considered. Speeding, breaching a stop sign, overtaking a vehicle, jumping red lights, and other offences carry a 10,000 fine.

Relationship Between Section 184 of the Motor Vehicle Act and Motor Insurance

A third-party car insurance policy is required to drive on public highways under the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988. Sections 145 - 164 of the Motor Vehicle Act are associated with the insurance provisions, which state that no one should drive a motor vehicle in a public area unless they have third-party liability insurance.

Third Party Motor Insurance

Third-party motor insurance refers to an insurance policy that provides coverage for liability towards third parties in the occurrence of an accident involving a motor vehicle. The term "third party" refers to any individual, property, or vehicle other than the insured and the insurer. It includes pedestrians, passengers, drivers of other vehicles, or the public who may be affected by the insured vehicle. 

Importance of Getting a Third-Party Insurance

Motor vehicle owners will require third-party insurance in order to safeguard themselves from legal liabilities, property damage, and accidental liabilities damage that they have caused to third parties. Through third-party insurance, the policyholder does not have to be concerned about paying for the medical expenses or other damages incurred during the accident of the third party. 

The advantages of availing a third-party insurance policy:

  • It compensates for the legal liabilities in case the policyholder damages or injures a third person.
  • It is a cost-effective resource in terms of premium and emergency.
  • Since it is legally mandatory, it ensures the legal mandate for motor vehicle owners.
  • It is a source of financial assistance and helps to pay off third-party liabilities without debt or saving utilization.