Section 279 of the Indian Penal Code

What is Section 279 IPC?

Under Section 279 of the Indian Penal Code, any individual who is driving or riding a vehicle on any public way in a rash or negligent manner, which may endanger human life or injure other people, will be punished by law. The punishment under this section is imprisonment up to six months, a penalty of ₹1,000, or both.

Now, let's look at what could be considered as reckless or negligent driving.

What is Meant by Negligent and Rash Driving?

When an individual is driving a vehicle without following the driving or road safety rules, it is considered an offence. However, just overspeeding a little does not count as reckless or rash driving. In fact, if the driver is capable of controlling the car at high speed, or if the road being driven on is empty, then it is not considered negligent or rash driving.

However, if an individual is carelessly driving a vehicle on public roads and is likely to put other people’s lives at risk, then they will be found guilty under Section 279 of IPC.

What will Happen if the Driver Causes Death or Injury of a Person?

If the driver of any vehicle causes an accident due to negligent and rash driving, resulting in any physical injuries to a person, then they are considered guilty under Section 279 of the Indian Penal Code. The individual will also be guilty under Section 337 of IPC (causing harm by an act that endangers personal safety or the life of other people), and Section 338 of IPC (causing severe injuries by an act that endangers personal safety or the life of other people).

In case the driver of the vehicle is under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants and causes an accident that results in the death of a person, they will be considered guilty under Section 304A of the IPC.

This clearly states that Sec 279 IPC only deals with negligent and rash driving/riding on public roads that can put the lives of other people in danger. However, if the driver causes death or any bodily injuries to other people, then the person is also charged under Section 337, Section 338, and Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code.

Wrapping it up!

If you are found guilty of an offence under Section 279 of IPC, you will have to face the consequences- imprisonment for up to six months, a penalty of up to ₹1,000, or both. Hence, it is your responsibility to drive carefully because even a minor error can send you behind bars.

The government has implemented laws like Section 279 IPC to ensure that Indian roads are safe to travel. Another law under the Motor Vehicle Act is the requirement of a valid motor insurance for your vehicle. So, if you don't have a valid insurance for your car or bike, explore the motor insurance plans available at Finserv MARKETS.

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