Wrong-side driving: A critical threat to road safety

Wrong-side driving causes confusion and bottlenecks, disrupting normal traffic flow and amplifying the risk of accidents.

Wrong-side driving has emerged as a significant contributor to road safety incidents in India, endangering lives and disrupting traffic systems. Despite penalties ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 1,500, this practice persists, presenting a severe challenge for traffic authorities.

Rooted in both deliberate recklessness and navigational errors, wrong-side driving is particularly hazardous in high-speed zones, often leading to devastating consequences such as severe injuries and fatalities.

In 2022 alone, 9,432 fatalities were attributed to wrong-side driving, with a 3.7 percent increase in these numbers in 2023, underscoring the pressing need for intervention.

Enhancing awareness, implementing advanced technology, and stricter enforcement of penalties could serve as effective deterrents against this perilous behaviour.

The Severe Risks of Wrong-Side Driving

Head-On Collisions

Driving against the flow of traffic drastically increases the likelihood of head-on crashes, especially in high-speed zones, leading to severe injuries or fatalities.

Traffic Disruptions

Wrong-side driving causes confusion and bottlenecks, disrupting normal traffic flow and amplifying the risk of accidents.

Legal and Financial Repercussions

Offenders face hefty fines, potential license suspension, and imprisonment under various sections of the law. Additionally, victims and violators incur costs from vehicle damage, medical expenses, and insurance claims.

Legal Framework to Address Wrong-Side Driving

Indian Penal Code, Section 336

Defines wrong-side driving as a criminal offense, punishable with fines up to Rs 5,000 and imprisonment of up to six months.

Indian Penal Code, Section 279

Addresses reckless driving that endangers lives, with penalties of up to Rs 1,000, six months in jail, or both.

Motor Vehicle Act, Section 184

Highlights wrong-side driving and other dangerous practices, aiming to safeguard drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike.

Root Causes of Wrong-Side Driving

Urban Traffic Congestion: Drivers often seek shortcuts on overcrowded roads to save time.
Inadequate Traffic Management: Poor synchronization of signals and weak enforcement enable violations.

Cultural Normalization: In certain regions, wrong-side driving is seen as acceptable due to minimal repercussions.

Emergency Justifications: Drivers sometimes cite emergencies to rationalize their actions.
Technological Interventions to Curb Wrong-Side Driving

Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR):

Enables authorities to identify violators in real-time and impose penalties efficiently.
Smart Barricades with ANPR Cameras:

Equipped with advanced detection capabilities to automatically record violations and prompt immediate action.

Tyre-Killer Spikes:

These deterrents puncture tyres of vehicles attempting to drive on the wrong side, effectively curbing violations.

The Way Forward

India’s strategy to tackle wrong-side driving is built on a triad of technology, enforcement, and awareness. By promoting a culture of responsible driving and integrating innovative safety measures, the country can significantly reduce road fatalities and ensure safer journeys for all.
Remember, the perceived convenience of wrong-side driving is never worth the risk. Every choice on the road has the power to save or endanger lives—let’s choose wisely.