Big alert for all two-wheeler riders and drivers! From January 2026, traffic police across India are enforcing stricter rules on helmet wearing and over speeding. Key change: Even if you wear a helmet, if the strap is not properly fastened, you can be fined up to ₹2,000 – same as not wearing one. Over speeding fines remain high at ₹1,000 to ₹5,000, with license suspension possible for repeats.
These rules under Motor Vehicles Act aim to reduce accidents – wear proper helmet and follow speed limits to stay safe!
Know Complete Details of Helmet Rules Update 2026
As per Section 194D of Motor Vehicles Act:
- Both rider and pillion must wear BIS-certified helmet.
- Helmet must be properly worn with strap fastened – loose or open strap counts as violation.
- Fine: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 (varies by state; some enforce ₹2,000 for improper use).
- Repeat offence: Driving license suspension up to 3 months.
New from January 2026: All new two-wheelers come with two BIS helmets (one for rider, one for pillion) – mandatory for manufacturers.
Sikh riders wearing turban exempted.
Over Speeding New Enforcement & Fines 2026
Over speeding remains major violation:
- Light Motor Vehicles (cars, bikes): ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 first offence.
- Medium/Heavy Vehicles: Up to ₹4,000.
- Dangerous/racing speeding: ₹5,000 + imprisonment possible.
- Detection: Radar guns, cameras – e-challan sent instantly.
States use AI cameras for automatic fines.
Complete List of Common Traffic Fines 2026 (Under MV Act 2019)
Major violations & penalties (central guidelines; states may vary slightly):
- No Helmet/Improper Helmet: ₹1,000-₹2,000 + possible license suspension
- Over Speeding: ₹1,000-₹5,000
- Driving Without License: ₹5,000
- Drunk Driving: ₹10,000-₹15,000 + jail
- Using Mobile While Driving: ₹5,000
- Jumping Red Light: ₹1,000-₹5,000
- No Seatbelt: ₹1,000
- No Insurance: ₹2,000-₹4,000
- Wrong Side/Reckless Driving: ₹5,000
- Triple Riding: ₹1,000
Pay e-challan within 60 days via parivahan.gov.in to avoid extra penalty.
How It Affects You – Tips to Avoid Fines in 2026
- Two-wheeler riders: Always fasten strap tightly; buy BIS helmet.
- Drivers: Obey speed limits (50-80 kmph city/highway).
- Pillion: Helmet mandatory – separate fine possible.
- Check e-challan online regularly.
- Edge cases: Children under 4 exempt from helmet; but safety first.
Stricter checks with cameras mean more challans – follow rules for safety, not just fines.
Riding bike daily? How do you ensure proper helmet? Comment below your views!
Stay updated with us for all latest traffic rules, fines and road safety in 2026.
Sources: Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, Motor Vehicles Act 2019, State Traffic Police Websites, Economic Times, Times of India.