Roadha
Basic Must-Knows (Awareness & Obedience)

3. Do Not Use Mobile Phones While Driving

Why This Lesson Matters

Using a mobile phone while driving is one of the leading causes of road accidents in India. A moment of distraction can lead to a lifetime of regret.

  • Mobile use while driving reduces reaction time.
  • Texting or calling diverts your attention from the road.
  • Hands-free is safer, but not risk-free.

What Happens When You’re Distracted

  • You miss traffic signals and road signs.
  • You fail to notice pedestrians or other vehicles.
  • You take longer to brake or swerve in emergencies.

  • Under Section 184 of the Motor Vehicles Act, using a mobile phone while driving is punishable.
  • Fine: ₹1,000 for first offense, ₹2,000 for repeat offenses.
  • Applies to both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.

Common Distractions from Mobile Use

  • Reading or replying to texts.
  • Attending calls without hands-free setup.
  • Browsing social media or watching videos.
  • Using navigation apps without mounting the phone.

Real-Life Consequences

  • Thousands of accidents in India are linked to phone use while driving.
  • Victims include drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
  • Many crashes happen in urban areas with heavy traffic.

More examples

Guy on road, using mobile phone, no helmet & going in wrong route.


Safer Alternatives

  • Use Do Not Disturb mode while driving.
  • Set navigation before you start the vehicle.
  • Pull over safely if you must take a call or reply.
  • Use voice commands or hands-free only when absolutely necessary.

Myth Busters

MythReality
"I can multitask while driving."Driving demands full attention — multitasking is dangerous.
"Hands-free is completely safe."Even hands-free calls reduce focus and awareness.
"Quick text won’t hurt."It takes only 2 seconds to cause a crash.

Quick Challenge

Scenario: You’re driving and your phone rings.
Question: What should you do?

✅ Let it ring. Pull over safely if it’s urgent.


Key Takeaways

  • Mobile phones are major distractions while driving.
  • Indian law prohibits phone use behind the wheel.
  • Prioritize safety — no call or text is worth a life.

Real life examples

Why Indian Drivers tend to use “Mobile Phones” more often to “record footages” while driving on fast routes? Why not use dash cam?

Before you start your vehicle, ask yourself:

“Is my phone going to distract me?”

  • Silence it.
  • Mount it if needed for navigation.
  • Focus fully on the road.

Bonus Section: Avoid Earphones While Riding or Walking

Using earphones while riding a bike or walking on busy roads can be just as dangerous as using a phone.

Why It’s Risky:

  • Blocks out critical sounds like horns, sirens, or approaching vehicles.
  • Reduces situational awareness.
  • Delays reaction time in emergencies.

Real-Life Impact:

  • Many pedestrian and two-wheeler accidents involve victims who were wearing earphones.
  • Listening to music or calls while riding can lead to fatal distractions.

What You Should Do:

  • Never wear earphones while riding a bike or scooter.
  • Avoid using earphones while walking near traffic-heavy areas.
  • If you must listen, use one earbud and keep volume low — but it’s best to avoid altogether.

Final Reminder

Whether you’re driving, riding, or walking — stay alert.
Your ears are your second pair of eyes on the road.

Silence the distractions. Stay alive.