BNS Section 281
What is the punishment for rash driving on a public road?
Short answer
Rash driving can be punished with up to six months imprisonment, a fine up to ₹1,000, or both.
In detail
Section 281 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 makes it an offence when anyone drives a vehicle or rides on a public road in a rash or negligent way that puts human life at risk or is likely to cause injury to another person. The law does not require the accident to actually happen; the dangerous manner itself is enough for liability. Both drivers of motor vehicles and riders of any conveyance, such as bicycles or animal‑drawn carts, fall within this rule. If a person is found guilty, the court can order imprisonment for a period that may be as long as six months. In addition, the court may levy a monetary fine that can go up to one thousand rupees. The judge also has the option to impose both the jail term and the fine together.
Related questions
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Hurt means causing bodily pain, disease, or infirmity to any person.
Can a husband be forced to financially support his wife, children, or parents if he refuses?
Yes, a magistrate can order him to pay a monthly allowance and enforce it with fines or up to one month in jail.
If I accidentally hurt a consenting adult during a game, can I be criminally liable?
No, you are not criminally liable if the act was not intended to cause death or serious injury and the adult gave consent.
Can I defend myself even if it might harm a child nearby?
Yes, the law permits you to use private defence even if it risks harming an innocent person during a deadly assault.
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Not legal advice. This is general legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case turns on its own facts — speak to a lawyer about your situation.