Surat is a leading diamond and textile hub in India, but from last year we have seen a spike in the number of road incidents due to the increasing number of vehicles on the road, especially two-wheelers. To tackle this issue, the traffic police in Surat have enforced strict traffic rules with the aim of making the roads of the city safer for travel. These rules promote safer driving practices.
Starting February 15, the Surat Police will begin enforcing a strict helmet mandate for all two-wheeler riders in the city, as announced by Surat Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gahlaut. This decision comes after alarming statistics revealed that over 300 lives were lost in road accidents in 2024, with a significant number of fatalities attributed to riders not wearing helmets.
What is the Without Helmet Fine in Surat?
In Surat, the fine for driving a two-wheeler without wearing protective headgear, as mandated by the Government of Gujarat, is ₹500. Furthermore, repeated offenses can also result in disqualification from holding a license for a period of three months.
This regulation requires every person above the age of four who is driving, riding, or being carried on a motorcycle in a public place to wear protective headgear according to the standards presented by the Central Government. However, there is an exception for Sikhs wearing a turban while driving or riding a motorcycle in public places.
This regulation is enforced with the aim of ensuring safer road conditions for driving, especially for bike riders, as they are more susceptible to severe damages in the face of a road accident.
What happens if you are caught driving without a helmet in Surat?
- Spotting the Violation: A traffic officer signals you to pull over your bike to a safe roadside spot.
- Questioning: You will be asked about the absence of a helmet.
- Document Inspection: The officer will inspect essential documents, including your driving license, vehicle registration certificate, and bike insurance policy.
- Fine Issuance: After verifying documents, a without helmet or pillion rider helmet fine will be issued. This can be in the form of a hard copy receipt or an e-challan.
What is the Right Type of Helmet to Wear?
Wearing a helmet is not just a legal requirement but a crucial safety measure for every rider. As per the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulations and the Motor Vehicles Act, helmets must meet specific criteria to ensure maximum protection. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right helmet.
1. ISI Mark – A Mandatory Safety Standard
The most critical factor when selecting a helmet is the ISI (Indian Standards Institute) certification. The ISI mark indicates that the helmet complies with safety standards set by BIS and can protect the rider in case of an accident. Helmets without an ISI mark are illegal and unsafe.
2. BIS Testing for Durability & Protection
Helmets must undergo rigorous BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) tests to ensure they can withstand various weather conditions and impact forces at different speeds. These tests verify the helmet’s strength, ability to absorb shocks, and durability under harsh conditions.
3. Full-Cover Helmets are Mandatory
Half helmets or open-face helmets do not offer complete protection and are not permissible under Indian traffic laws. Instead, riders must wear full-cover helmets that protect the head, jaw, and chin to minimize the risk of serious injury.
4. Weight of the Helmet
A helmet should not weigh more than 1.2 kg. Heavy helmets can cause neck strain and discomfort, while lighter helmets may not provide sufficient protection. Helmets designed as per BIS regulations strike the right balance between safety and comfort.
5. Helmet Thickness & Material
- The ideal helmet thickness should be between 20 to 25 mm.
- Helmets must be constructed using high-quality foam and impact-resistant materials.
- This thickness ensures that the helmet can absorb impact effectively, reducing the severity of head injuries in case of accidents.
6. Helmet Visor Requirements
A good helmet should have a transparent and durable visor that provides clear visibility to the rider. The visor should be scratch-resistant and shatterproof to withstand external impacts like dust, debris, and strong winds. Tinted or heavily shaded visors that obstruct visibility are not recommended, especially for night riding.
Ride Safe. Stay Protected. Follow the Rules.
Also read, Union Budget 2025: Key Announcements for the Growth of the Textile Sector
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