Wrong Side Driving Fine

Driving on the wrong side of the road is a grave traffic violation. It is considered a serious offence that leads to a high number of deaths in India. Driving on the wrong side is a serious road crime that can result in heavy fines and even imprisonment in India. 

Updated On - 07 Oct 2025
Wrong Side Driving Fine

Wrong side driving contributes to a high number of road casualties. It is considered the second leading cause of road fatalities in India. Many factors lead to this pressing situation, and the state and central governments have established harsh penalties and fines for this crime. Read on to learn more about the fines for wrong side driving in India. 

Contributing Factors to Wrong Side Driving 

Wrong side driving is a result of various contributing factors. The leading causes of wrong side driving are as follows: 

  1. Impaired Driving: Impaired driving, or driving under the influence, is believed to be the leading cause of wrong side driving. Studies show that 24% of wrong side driving accidents happened due to alcohol consumption. Alcohol consumption can negatively affect a person’s cognitive and decision-making abilities, leading to accidents. 
  1. Complex Road Layouts: Road designs that are confusing or in poor conditions are a leading cause of road accidents. Complex road layouts can confuse drivers and lead to making the costly mistake of driving on the wrong side. 
  1. Confusing Signage: This is another factor that leads to wrong side driving in India. Inadequate or confusing signage can confuse drivers, making navigation hard, especially on busy highways. Unclear marking lanes also significantly contribute to wrong side driving. 
  1. Distractions While Driving: Getting distracted while driving is a major reason that leads to wrong side driving. When the driver is not fully focused on the road, they might miss important road signs and accidentally make wrong-way entries. 

Penalty for Wrong-Side Driving 

Penalties for wrong side driving in India vary depending on the severity of the act committed. Punishment for wrong side driving includes fines and imprisonment. In many states across India, the fine for wrong side driving is Rs.500 to Rs.1,000 for a first-time offence. If the offence is repeated, the fine can go up to Rs.2,000 or more. It can also result in the suspension of your driving licence temporarily or permanently. If the offence is severe, a prison sentence can also be expected. 

How to Pay the Challan for Wrong-Side Driving? 

You can pay the fine for driving on the wrong side of the road online and offline in India. If you prefer to do it offline, you can go to the nearest RTO (Regional Transport Office) and pay the penalty. If you wish to pay it online, you can follow the steps given below: 

Step 1: Visit the official website of the RTO 

Step 2: Click on ‘Traffic Violation Fees’ option. 

Step 3: Type in your vehicle registration number. 

Step 4: Pay the penalty online via net banking, debit/credit card, or UPI. 

FAQs on Wrong Side Driving Fine

  • What is wrong side driving?

    Wrong side driving refers to the act of driving against the flow of traffic. This is a punishable offence under the Motor Vehicles Act. 

  • What are the penalties for wrong side driving in India?

    Penalties for wrong side driving in India includes fines, suspension of the driving licence, impounding of the vehicle, and imprisonment. 

  • Will I have to go to prison if I drive on the wrong side accidentally?

    For general offences, prison sentence is not usually given. If the offence causes fatal accidents, it can lead to prison sentence. 

  • Can my driving licence be suspended if I drive on the wrong side of the road in India?

    Yes, depending on the nature of the offence and its frequency, your driving licence can be suspended temporarily or permanently. 

  • Can I pay the wrong side driving penalty online?

    Yes, you can pay the fine online through the official website of the RTO in your city. 

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