Not Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles
Written and checked byManju Shekhar· Motor Law & Compliance
Failing to yield to an ambulance, fire brigade, or police vehicle with active sirens and lights.
Fine (1st)
₹10,000
Repeat Fine
Up to 6 months imprisonment and/or up to ₹10,000
What the Law Says
Emergency vehicles — ambulances, fire engines, and police vehicles responding to emergencies — have the right of way on all roads when their sirens and lights are active. Every driver must immediately pull over to the left side of the road to allow them to pass. Since 15 August 2026 a first offence is a ₹10,000 civil penalty; imprisonment is reserved for a second or subsequent offence.
"Whoever while driving a motor vehicle fails to draw to the side of the road, on the approach of a fire service vehicle or of an ambulance or other emergency vehicle as may be specified by the State Government, shall be liable for penalty of ten thousand rupees for first offence and shall be punishable for any second or subsequent offence with imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to ten thousand rupees or with both." — Sec. 194E (inserted in 2019), as amended by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026
Consequences
- ₹10,000 penalty for a first offence
- Up to 6 months imprisonment and/or up to ₹10,000 for a repeat offence
- Criminal liability if delay results in loss of life
- Vehicle impoundment in serious cases
How to Avoid This Violation
- ✓On hearing a siren, immediately check mirrors and move left safely
- ✓At intersections, stop even on green if an emergency vehicle is approaching
- ✓Create a corridor by pulling over — do not just slow down
- ✓After the emergency vehicle passes, wait until traffic normalises before rejoining
What to Do If Caught
- 1.Pay the ₹10,000 penalty via e-challan
- 2.If you blocked due to traffic congestion rather than negligence, document the situation
Key Facts
₹10,000
penalty for a first offence
6 months
maximum jail term, repeat offence only
Legal Reference
Section 194E, MV Act
Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 — Section 194E (inserted by 2019 Amendment; amended by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026)
Related Violations
Information sourced from Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 — Section 194E (inserted by 2019 Amendment; amended by the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026). For awareness only — consult a legal professional for specific advice.