There has been an increase in the number of people who die because of rash driving.
The traffic police data shows that 577 citizens have died in accidents due to rash driving in the city. Compared to last year’s report, there has been an increase of seven percent in monthly accidents.
According to the Indian Penal Code, Section 279, rash driving is defined as “whoever drives any vehicle, or rides, on any public way in a manner so rash or negligent as to endanger human life or to be likely to cause hurt or injury to any other person shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.”
Commuters say that driving or riding in the wrong direction cause most accidents. Avijith Mahi Vinnakota, a citizen of Bangalore, says, “A few days back, I met with an accident because of an auto driver who was driving in the wrong direction at high speed. Though I wore my helmet, I had a hand fracture.”
Under Sections 279 and 336 of the Indian Penal Code, traffic police can arrest the rider for rash driving. Traffic police catch the offenders using Speed Radar Guns and Camera traps and fine them accordingly. Ramachandraia. H, Head Constable from Yashwanthpur police station, says, “This is the negligence of the citizens who are driving recklessly, which leads to accidents. Also, when riders are in speed, and suddenly a pothole comes on the road, it might lead to a fatal accident.” He added that citizens should be careful while riding during the rainy season as there are high chances of a vehicle skidding. For this, the department is doing awareness campaigns.
Prof. M. N. Sreehari, a traffic and road safety expert, believes that policies should be moulded to reduce cases of rash driving. He said, “Individuals should control emotional rage because when we are sad or happy, we tend to enjoy the moment. And nowadays fast driving with music has become a trend, so that should be considered.”
Officials hope to create more awareness and monitor using cameras and speed guns to control the situation.
