The issue of underage driving once again came into spotlight after two teenagers lost their lives in a road accident. They were riding a two-wheeler in the BRT corridor in Swargate when a state transport bus hit their two-wheeler. As in all other cities, the number of minors driving two-wheelers is increasing by leaps and bounds in Pune also. Since these children belong to well-to-do families, they manage to escape the clutches of traffic police rather easily. By and large, unaware of the consequences, they drive their vehicles fast and almost everyday there are a couple of accidents where students are involved.
A number of minors drive without taking the necessary procedures to get a driver’s license. These underage teenagers believe that their behavior is thrilling and exciting; however, the decision to drive without gaining the skills and experience necessary to be a safe driver can lead to life-changing consequences. For one, minors can get into an accident that involves property damages or personal injuries. Underage driving without a license can also lead to legal penalties, which may include counseling, probation, community service.
Apart from risking their own lives, these kids also make life difficult for other commuters. One can see them speeding on their motorbikes. As a result, many a time, they are involved in fatal collisions.
Now, the traffic branch of the Pune police has initiated a special drive against minors below 16 years of age riding two wheelers. As many as 189 minors have been fined in the last five days for ‘underage driving’.
The need is to sensitise every parent about the harms that underage, reckless driving can cause.
What the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, says:
- No person under the age of 18 years shall drive a motor vehicle in any public place
- A motorcycle with engine capacity not exceeding 50cc may be driven in a public place by a person after attaining the age of 16 years
- No person under the age of 20 years shall drive a transport vehicle in any public place
- No person shall drive a motor vehicle in any public place unless he holds an effective driving licence issued to him authorising him to drive the vehicle
