Fines For Not Making Way for Emergency Vehicles

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

Fines For Not Making Way for Emergency Vehicles

In India, giving way to emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars is both a civic duty and a traffic requirement mandated by the Motor Vehicles Department. However, many drivers overlook this responsibility due to traffic congestion or a lack of awareness regarding the rule. This negligence can lead to hefty fines and legal consequences. Additionally, if you're involved in an accident while failing to give way to an emergency vehicle, your comprehensive car insurance may not cover the damages, as it could be considered a violation of traffic laws.

Fine for Not Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles

Emergency vehicles have the right of way, and failing to give them a route, especially for ambulances, will result in significant fines. As per the latest penalties effective from 1 March 2025, violators who do not clear the way may face fines as high as ₹10,000.

This rule is enforced to ensure timely access to emergency services, which can be critical in saving lives. Drivers are urged to be vigilant and prioritise the safety of others by immediately yielding to these vehicles when necessary.

Impact on Vehicle Insurance

Failing to yield to emergency vehicles can also affect your car insurance. If you're involved in an accident while obstructing an emergency vehicle, your insurer may refuse to cover the damages due to the violation of traffic laws. Additionally, if you’re fined for not clearing the way, the penalty could lead to increased premiums or a negative impact on your claims history, further raising your costs. Adhering to traffic rules and ensuring a clear passage for emergency vehicles can help maintain your comprehensive or third-party insurance coverage and keep your premiums in check.

Final Thought

Giving way to emergency vehicles not only ensures legal safety but also demonstrates social responsibility. When everyone adheres to traffic rules, our roads become more efficient, safer, and ultimately more humane. Furthermore, following these rules helps protect your vehicle insurance, as violations can lead to fines, claims denials, or increased premiums.

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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