Being the hub of notable industrial sectors, Karnataka attracts more people from other sections of India and worldwide. More people lead to more vehicles, which sometimes results in traffic violations. Hence, the government amended the Motor Vehicle Act in 2019, which initiated a couple of new traffic rules and regulations and increased traffic violation fines. 

The new traffic rules and fines are revised based on the type of offences committed, especially for individuals riding two-wheelers. 

Read on to learn all about the updated rules and Karnataka traffic fines.

The Karnataka state government changed the rules and regulations of the Motor Vehicles Act in 2019, which was enacted on September 1, 2019. 

These updated rules were followed in various regions and cities of Karnataka, including Bengaluru (Bangalore), Mysuru (Mysore), Mangaluru (Mangalore), Hubballi-Dharwad, and Belagavi. Furthermore, due to the political pressure of different parties, the Bharatiya Janata Party Government in Karnataka revised some fines on traffic tribulations, which were reduced by 50% to 80%. 

Yes, traffic fines have been reduced with the new changes and updates in the Motor Vehicles Act. For instance, driving without a genuine driving licence is reduced to ₹1000 and ₹2,000 for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers, respectively, from ₹5,000, which was the earlier rate. 

Furthermore, previously, people driving without an authentic car insurance policy had to pay a penalty of ₹2,000, which is now reduced to ₹1,000 as per the latest update.

In 2023, approximately 1,95,69,861 challans were disposed of in India, amounting to ₹ 32,04,44,50,545 revenue collected.

In Karnataka, traffic fine collection is rigorously enforced through digital systems and on-ground enforcement. Penalties are levied for speeding, improper parking, and helmetless riding violations. Online payment options streamline the process, ensuring compliance with traffic regulations.

You can check your traffic challan in Karnataka and pay online in some easy ways mentioned below.

Process to Check e-Challan Online in Karnataka

• If you prefer the online process, you can do so through the Parivahan website under “Check Online Services” tab. 

• You can also check the Karnataka Government’s official website to know more about your e-Challan status.

Process to Pay e-Challan Online in Karnataka

• You can easily pay your traffic fines online in Karnataka via the Parivahan website.

• Conversely, you can pay your e-Challan through the Karnataka Government’s official website or KarnatakaOne portal service as well. 

On the other hand, you can also pay your fine in cash to a traffic police officer with an e-challan machine. Similarly, you can visit any traffic police station in your city with some necessary documents and submit your fine there.

Mentioned below are the vital traffic rules that four-wheeler riders should follow at the time of hitting the road:

• Use Seatbelts: Seatbelt use is essential, as it can protect you from severe injuries during accidents. Violation of this rule can lead to seat belt fines in Karnataka.

• Avoid Using Phone while Driving: Never use your mobile while driving. Disregarding this rule can result in traffic fines in Karnataka.

• Avoid Overspeeding: Avoid high-speed and aggressive driving, as these can cause accidents and result in hefty overspeeding challan. 

• Carry Valid Papers: You must carry your valid driving license, vehicle registration certificate, and other important car papers while driving in Karnataka.

• Avoid Changing Lanes: Avoid overtaking and changing lanes suddenly. Use the indicators before turning or changing lanes. Disobeying this rule can lead to car fines in Karnataka.

• Avoid Driving When Intoxicated: Do not drive a car on the road/street in an intoxicated state as this might result in drink and drive fines.

Avail Car Insurance: Before driving a four-wheeler in Karnataka, make sure you buy a car insurance plan.

Following are important traffic rules that the bikers and two-wheeler riders need to follow while hitting the road:

• Wear Helmet: Always wear a helmet (headgear) while riding a bike in Karnataka as this can protect you from fatal head injuries in the event of a road accident.

• Avoid Overloading: Do not ride a bike with more than one person as a pillion. This is because overloaded two-wheelers can come across accidental situations.

• Refrain from Using Mobile Phones: Do not use mobile phones or any other gadgets while riding a two-wheeler, as this can lead to traffic challans in Karnataka. 

• Don’t Drink and Drive: Do not ride a two-wheeler in a drunken state as this might lead to accidents or hefty traffic fines. 

• Carry Valid Documents: Always carry all important papers while riding bikes, including your driving license, PUC certificate and other vehicle-related documents.  

• Avail Bike Insurance: You must carry the bike insurance policy of your two-wheeler. If you do not have an insurance plan, it can lead to a traffic fine of ₹1000. 

Being a highly populated state, Karnataka has many important traffic rules that have become stricter recently to ensure safety. 

Thus, vehicle owners in this state need to conform to these traffic rules and regulations to enjoy a smooth driving experience. However, violating those rules can attract traffic fines in Karnataka. Hence, you should obey the traffic rules and take the necessary precautions while driving a car or a two-wheeler.