Got a wrong challan? Here’s what to do next

Newspapers are filled with bizarre traffic challan stories from the time the new Motor Vehicle’s Act has come into play. This definitely makes one wonder if each of these challans is legit? What if the rider was not really at fault? What does one do if fined wrongly?

A man in Uttar Pradesh received a challan of Rs 500 for not wearing a helmet – inside a car!

For the sake of clarity- no, the traffic police do not have a personal vendetta against you. Getting the wrong traffic challan could be due to many reasons. Unclear vehicle number plate, a lapse of judgment by the police or a technical error- anything can cause the error.

What to do when you receive a wrong challan?[sc_fs_multi_faq headline-0=”p” question-0=”What to do when you receive a wrong challan?” answer-0=”To dispute a challan, you can visit your nearest Traffic Cell and explain the situation. You can produce documents supporting your claim. Also, sending an email or calling the traffic cell may help your case.” image-0=”” headline-1=”p” question-1=”How to avoid a wrong fine?” answer-1=”Know and follow traffic rules. A police constable cannot ask you to produce documents, only an officer can. Also, make sure they are carrying a challan book while fining you.” image-1=”” count=”2″ html=”false” css_class=””]

If the traffic police are harassing you, you can lodge a complaint at your nearest police station.

To dispute a challan, you can visit your nearest Traffic Cell and explain the situation. You can produce documents supporting your claim. Also, sending an email or calling the traffic cell may help your case.

If you are asked to appear in the court for the challan, you can raise an objection and dispute it. Before doing so, make sure that you have enough evidence to support your argument.

Chassis number, your GPS location, vehicle registration number, ownership documents, etc. are some proof that can work in your favour if you have been fined wrongly by the police.

How to avoid a wrong fine?

• Be mindful of the traffic rules and carry all the necessary documents. Stating the obvious but it helps to pay extra attention to avoid getting fined.
• Cooperate and produce the documents requested. Arguing or ignoring such a demand is unlawful.
• Make sure that the traffic police has a challan book or an e-challan machine, only then can they fine you.
• If you doubt the authenticity of the traffic police officer, you can ask for an identification card. But be polite about it.
• Read the challan slip thoroughly to ascertain the possible errors. It must mention the violation, your details, list of documents detained by the police, the date of the trial and the name of the court where the hearing will take place.
• If you have stored your documents digitally or in an app, the police cannot fine you for this. Producing vehicle-related documents in an electronic form is an accepted norm by the govt.
• The police can’t seize your license without giving a receipt for it. They can’t even tow your car if you’re sitting inside.
• Traffic police cannot take out your keys from the ignition- it’s illegal. Deflating of tyres in an attempt to detain your vehicle is also illegal.
• A police constable cannot ask you to produce documents or seize them. You can politely deny and show your documents to an officer only.
• A turban-wearing Sikh cannot be fined for not wearing a helmet.

If you feel that you have been charged way higher for a traffic rule violation, you must know that the latest Motor Vehicles Act contains increased penalties for certain offences.