No person in charge of a motor vehicle shall cause or allow the vehicle or any trailer to be abandoned or to remain at rest on any public place in such a position or in such a condition or in such circumstances as to cause or likely to cause danger, obstruction or undue inconvenience to other users of the public place or to the passengers.
Simplified Explanation
Section 122 of the Motor Vehicles Act addresses the issue of leaving a vehicle in a position that could be considered dangerous or hazardous to other road users, including pedestrians. This section is essential to maintaining safety and order on public roads by preventing potential accidents and disruptions caused by improperly parked or abandoned vehicles. Here’s a detailed breakdown of this section:
Section 122 stipulates that no person in charge of a motor vehicle shall leave it in a place or in a condition that could pose a danger or obstruction to other users of the road. This law is designed to ensure that all drivers act responsibly when parking or stopping their vehicles.
Key Points of Section 122:
- Prohibited Actions:
- It is illegal to leave a vehicle in a position where it could cause danger, obstruction, or inconvenience to other road users. This includes parking in a way that blocks visibility, pedestrian pathways, or creates a hazard that could lead to accidents.
- Examples of Dangerous Positions:
- Parking on a blind curve where oncoming traffic cannot see the parked vehicle.
- Leaving a vehicle on a narrow road in a way that blocks traffic flow.
- Abandoning a vehicle without adequate lighting or warning signals in poorly lit areas.
- Responsibility of the Driver:
- The primary responsibility lies with the person in charge of the vehicle at the time it is left in a potentially dangerous position. This responsibility does not solely rest on the owner if they are not present.
- Enforcement and Penalties:
- Violations of this section can result in fines, penalties, or other legal actions depending on the severity and potential risk caused by the improperly parked vehicle.
- Safety Measures:
- Drivers are encouraged to use designated parking areas and to ensure their vehicle is left in a safe, visible, and non-obstructive manner whenever they park.
Importance of Section 122:
- Safety: Prevents accidents that could occur due to obstructive or dangerously parked vehicles.
- Fluid Traffic: Helps maintain smooth and uninterrupted traffic flow by preventing blockages and bottlenecks.
- Accountability: Encourages responsible behavior among vehicle operators, ensuring they consider the impact of their parking habits on overall road safety.
This section of the Motor Vehicles Act plays a critical role in ensuring that drivers are conscious of where and how they leave their vehicles, thereby minimizing risks to themselves and others on the road. It emphasizes the importance of mindful and safe parking practices in public spaces.
