Overspeeding
Driving above the prescribed speed limit for the road or vehicle class.
Fine (1st)
₹1,000–₹2,000 (LMV) ₹2,000–₹4,000 (heavy)
Repeat Fine
Double fine; licence suspension on 3rd offence
Licence
On third or subsequent offence
What the Law Says
Overspeeding is the single largest cause of road accidents and fatalities in India, accounting for approximately 70% of all accident deaths. Speed limits are set by road type, vehicle category, and location. In city areas: 50 km/h for cars; 30 km/h near schools and hospitals. On national highways: up to 100 km/h for cars and 80 km/h for motorcycles; on access-controlled expressways cars can go up to 120 km/h. Heavy vehicles have lower limits across all road types.
"Whoever drives a motor vehicle in a public place at a speed exceeding the speed limit shall be punishable..." — Sec. 183, MV Act 1988
Consequences
- ₹1,000–₹2,000 fine for LMV on first offence
- ₹2,000–₹4,000 for heavy vehicles on first offence
- Double fine for repeat offences
- Licence suspension on third offence
- Increased accident liability if speeding contributed to a crash
State-Specific Fines
Delhi
₹2,000 (LMV), ₹4,000 (heavy)
Tamil Nadu
₹800–₹1,500
West Bengal
₹800–₹1,200
Karnataka
₹1,000–₹2,000
How to Avoid This Violation
- ✓Check posted speed limit signs when entering new roads
- ✓Enable speed alerts in Google Maps or your car's navigation system
- ✓Leave earlier to avoid the need to rush
- ✓Maintain safe following distances — high speed leaves no braking room
What to Do If Caught
- 1.Accept the speed camera printout or officer's challan
- 2.You may challenge the reading if the equipment was uncalibrated — request calibration certificate
- 3.Pay through e-challan portal to avoid licence renewal issues
Key Facts
70%
of road deaths involve overspeeding (MoRTH 2023)
1.2L+
accidents due to overspeeding per year
120 km/h
max speed limit on expressways for cars
Legal Reference
Section 183, MV Act
Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 — Section 183; MV (Amendment) Act, 2019
Related Violations
Information sourced from Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 — Section 183; MV (Amendment) Act, 2019. For awareness only — consult a legal professional for specific advice.