Karkala: Parents to be booked, fined if minors caught driving

Karkala: Taking cognizance of the increase in number of minors driving, the Karkala police have decided to enforce strict rules that allow them to file a case against the parents if their minor children are caught driving.

The decision has been taken following an accident that occurred in the limits of Karkala police, on January 12, wherein a minor was found to be driving the car. The tempo driver had filed a complaint against the minor’s parents at the city police station as his vehicle was damaged in the mishap.

With resumption of schools and colleges, several students, especially the kids belonging to the age group 12-14, are seen riding bikes and scooters. At times, they even resort to triple-riding without wearing helmets. The police have decided to put an end to all these practices.

Even though the law doesn’t permit anyone below 18 years of age to drive/ride vehicles, there are some parents who lend vehicles to their kids asking them to be cautious.

Cases against the parents or vehicles owners who allowed their minor kids to drive are booked under Section 184 of Motor Vehicle Act. Hefty fines will be levied along with imprisonment. Despite the warnings, such incidents are increasing.

One such accident occurred in 2019 where a minor driving near Sannur led to death of two people. While there have been no such incidents reported since then, the number of minors driving have increased.

Tejaswi, Deputy Inspector of Police Karkala, said it is illegal to drive without a license. One isn’t following the rules if he/she doesn’t have a license. Parents should be more cautious and aware.

Madhu B E, Deputy Inspector of Police, City police station Karkala asserted that minors found driving will be taken into custody along with their parents. As per the act, a fine will be levied.