Fines For Signal Jumping

Posted on: May 16, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Fines For Signal Jumping

Jumping a red light is one of the most common and dangerous traffic offences reported in India. Disregarding the signal not only puts you at risk but also endangers pedestrians and other drivers. To address the growing concerns over road safety, the Government of India has implemented stricter penalties under the amended Motor Vehicles Act 2019. The RTO (Regional Transport Office) in each state is responsible for enforcing this law.

What is Signal Jumping?

Reckless driving like crossing the stop line or entering into the junction where the signal is red, is called signal jumping. It does not seem like a bigger deal but it can cause the most dangerous of accidents, especially at peak hours.

The enforcement of traffic laws has been strengthened with the increased installation of CCTVs and automated red light violation detection systems in urban areas. These technologies help monitor traffic in real time, ensuring that drivers comply with traffic signals and other regulations.

Latest Fines for Signal Jumping

Under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act of 2019, signal jumping carries severe penalties. According to Section 177A of the Act, the fine for violating traffic signals is ₹5,000 for the first offence, as per the latest regulations effective from 1 March 2025. For the second and any subsequent offences, the penalty increases to ₹10,000. These measures aim to deter traffic violations and promote road safety.

How Signal Jumping Affects Your Car Insurance?

Many drivers do not fully understand how signal jumping affects their comprehensive or third-party car insurance policy. If an accident occurs while you are breaking a traffic signal, your insurance claim may be rejected or partially paid out. This is because insurance companies consider such actions as unlawful conduct, not covered by the policy.

Additionally, traffic law infractions and challans could result in higher premiums at renewal or even denial of coverage. Maintain responsible driving behaviour to ensure that you do not lose the advantages offered by your cover.

To summarise

Following traffic rules and regulations is pivotal in ensuring not only your safety but that of other road users. By adhering to these rules, you avoid unnecessary fines and keep your car insurance policy valid. Additionally, sometimes, traffic violations leading to serious aftermaths can result in driving licence suspension. So, next time the light is red, remember: don’t rush, just stop.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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