Traffic violations on the rise

The traffic police seem to have intensified their drive against road safety violations.

There is a notable increase in the number of cases booked and fine collected up to October this year when compared to last year.

According to statistics, riding without helmet seems to be the top offence. This year, until October, the police registered more than 4.38 lakh cases as compared to over 3.48 lakh cases in 2011.

Cases of signal violation follow next with more than 2.15 lakh cases and over Rs. 2 crore collected in fine.

Another offence to join the list of violations this year is the use of sun control films on cars. The police implemented a ban on tinted glasses earlier this year. More than 1.26 lakh cases were booked since May this year when the rule came into force.

Other violations on the rise include driving without licence, and rash and drunken driving.

“A total of 1,771 cases were booked for rash driving in 2011 and a fine of over Rs. 10 lakh collected from the offenders. In 2012, up to October, a total of 1,737 cases were booked and a fine amount of over Rs. 16 lakh was collected,” a traffic policeman said.

Drag racing comprises at least 5% of the total number of cases and the police have devoted more time and attention to nab such offenders, the officer said.

“We have begun a raid from November 25. On Tuesday alone, 15 persons were nabbed in Adyar for racing. Since it was the first time the offenders were caught, we let them off with a warning after informing their parents,” the officer said.

There are a total of 40 lakh vehicles plying in the city. Of these, 28 lakh are two-wheelers. “Bikers are often a headache and we need to focus more on such offenders,” the officer said.