New traffic penalties

The following are highlights of the proposed new penalties for traffic violations:

* Using mobile phones or iPads while driving: First offence – Rs.500 fine. Second offence – fine between Rs.2,000 and 5,000.

* Drunken driving:

First category: 30-60 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood; first offence to attract a fine of Rs.2,000 or six months in jail or both.

Second category: 60-150 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood; first offence will invite fine of Rs.4,000 or one year jail term or both. Second offence will attract fine of Rs.8,000 or three years in jail or both.

Third category: Over 150 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood; first offence will lead to fine of Rs.5,000 or two years in jail or both. Second offence will attract fine of Rs.10,000 or four years in jail or both. It can even lead to cancellation of driving license.

* Death in road accident: Compensation hiked from Rs.25,000 to Rs.1 lakh; compensation of Rs.50,000 in case of serious injury.