It is learnt that in the first 20 days of 2025, the Goa traffic police issued over 15,000 challans for various traffic violations. The most common offences include entering non-entry zones, dangerous parking and riding without helmets. However, for some unknown reason, no action is forthcoming against car drivers who do not wear seat-belts. Section 194B of the Motor Vehicle Act 1988 mandates the use of safety belts. Violation of the rule is punishable with a fine of Rs 1,000.
If car drivers in Goa were pulled up for not wearing seat-belts, the number of traffic violations would have been much higher. At higher speed those sitting in the front seat, including the driver, can be thrown through the windshield onto the road. Use of a lap and shoulder belt reduces the risk of fatal injury by 60%. Wearing a seat belt by occupants of a car is as vital as wearing a helmet by a two-wheeler rider.
