Govt’s Rule For Vehicle : In a move that has taken two-wheeler buyers by surprise, the Indian government has introduced a new rule mandating that every new bike or scooty purchase must include two helmets—one for the rider and one for the pillion. This safety-first initiative not only promotes road discipline but also offers financial and practical benefits for buyers. Here’s everything you need to know about this new rule, who it applies to, and how it impacts two-wheeler buyers.
What is the New Helmet Rule for Bike/Scooty Buyers?
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has officially notified that all two-wheeler manufacturers and dealers must provide two BIS-certified helmets with every new vehicle sold. This rule aims to enhance the safety of both the rider and the passenger.
Key Highlights:
- Applicable from: Effective immediately (check local state implementation)
- Compulsory for all new two-wheeler purchases
- Both helmets must be BIS-certified
- Cost to be included in total vehicle price
- Non-compliance may result in dealer penalties
Why Did the Government Implement This Rule?
India witnesses one of the highest numbers of road accidents globally, with two-wheelers being the most affected. According to official data:
- Over 44,000 two-wheeler users died in 2023 due to not wearing helmets
- Pillion riders are equally vulnerable but often neglected
- Low helmet usage in rural and semi-urban areas
- Majority of accidents involve head injuries
The government’s intention is not only to enforce helmet usage but also to eliminate excuses like “we didn’t have an extra helmet.”
How Will This Rule Affect Buyers?
This rule has both financial and safety implications for new bike/scooty buyers. Here’s how it changes your experience:
Pros:
- Saves cost of buying helmets separately (average ₹1,000–₹2,000 each)
- Ensures both rider and pillion are protected
- Increases convenience at the time of purchase
Cons:
- Slight increase in on-road price due to added helmet cost
- Buyers lose the option to choose helmet design/style
- Dealers may provide basic helmets unless insisted otherwise
See more : Govt-RBI Crackdown on Cheque Bounce
Complete Cost Breakdown: Old vs New
Below is a comparison of the typical two-wheeler cost before and after this rule:
| Item | Before Rule (INR) | After Rule (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Ex-Showroom Price | ₹70,000 | ₹70,000 |
| RTO + Registration Charges | ₹6,000 | ₹6,000 |
| Insurance | ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 |
| Helmet (Single, buyer-funded) | ₹1,200 | – |
| Helmet (Pillion, not included) | ₹1,200 | – |
| Two Helmets (Dealer Provided) | – | ₹2,000 (approx.) |
| Final On-Road Price | ₹83,400 | ₹83,000 – ₹84,000 |
Note: Prices may vary depending on location, brand, and dealer.
Dealers’ Responsibility and Penalties for Violation
Dealers must ensure the following:
- Provide two helmets with every new vehicle
- Maintain records of helmet distribution
- Helmets must comply with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) norms
- Display compliance details on invoice and delivery note
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
- Fines of up to ₹1 lakh per violation
- Suspension of dealership license for repeated offences
- Complaints can be lodged with MoRTH or state transport departments
Public Reaction: Buyers & Safety Experts Applaud the Move
What Buyers Are Saying:
- “I was planning to buy a new scooty, and this rule saved me extra expenses on helmets.”
- “Now my family can travel safely without worrying about a second helmet.”
Expert Opinion:
- Safety experts believe this rule will drastically reduce head injuries
- NGOs working in road safety say it could save thousands of lives every year
Most Affected Segments: Who Benefits the Most?
This rule benefits these groups the most:
- First-time two-wheeler buyers
- Families where pillion riding is common
- Rural buyers with limited access to safety gear
- Delivery agents and commercial users
How to Ensure You’re Not Cheated by Dealers
Follow these tips during purchase:
- Ask for BIS certification mark on both helmets
- Check the invoice: helmets must be itemized or noted
- Ensure helmet size fits properly
- If dealer denies, report to MoRTH or local transport office
Table: BIS-Certified Helmet Brands Often Provided by Dealers
| Brand Name | Average Price | BIS Mark | Type | Weight (gm) | Color Options | Available Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vega | ₹900–₹1,200 | Yes | Full Face | 900–1100 | 5+ | S, M, L, XL |
| Studds | ₹1,000–₹1,500 | Yes | Open Face | 800–1000 | 4+ | M, L, XL |
| Steelbird | ₹1,000–₹1,700 | Yes | Full Face | 950–1150 | 6+ | S, M, L, XL |
| Royal Enfield | ₹2,000+ | Yes | Classic | 1200 | Limited | L, XL |
| Autofy | ₹900–₹1,300 | Yes | Half Face | 800 | 3 | M, L |
| Ergo | ₹850–₹1,100 | Yes | Basic | 750 | 2 | Universal |
| Axor | ₹1,800–₹2,500 | Yes | Sports | 1300 | 7 | M, L, XL |
Impact on Road Safety: A Step Towards Zero Fatalities
This initiative is part of India’s larger road safety goals. The government aims to:
- Reduce road deaths by 50% by 2030
- Achieve UN Global Road Safety Target
- Enforce safety compliance during vehicle sales
Experts believe that this small addition could save up to 10,000 lives annually, especially in high-risk zones like highways and city intersections.
A Rule That Saves Lives and Money
The government’s decision to mandate 2 free helmets with every new bike or scooty purchase is a game-changer in India’s road safety movement. While some may debate the added cost or choice limitations, the bigger picture is clear: life-saving measures should never be optional.
If you’re planning to buy a two-wheeler, make sure you’re not just choosing the right bike but also securing the safety of everyone who will ride it.
This article is for informational purposes only. Prices, availability, and rule implementation may vary by state and brand. Always verify with your local dealer and official government notifications.
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