How to Pay E-Challan in Bangalore: A Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Status & Paying Fines Online

Introduction

Rise of E-Challan in Bangalore

The e-Challan system, which Bangalore launched to streamline traffic enforcement and road safety, paved the way towards more efficient and transparent management of traffic. Thusio had previously stated in the chief minister’s announcement. The electronic challan is generated digitally by traffic police officers and is linked to a central system. This means that when you’re caught violating traffic rules, whether for overspeeding, jumping a red light or not wearing a seatbelt, the e-Challan system automatically records the offense and you are issued a challan in real-time.

Elimination of physical paperwork: e-challan would be very beneficial for the department, besides citizens. No more standing in long queues or disturbing one’s back-office team for the physical challans. This feature permits Bangaloreans to make their traffic fines payment in their own homes, thus making traffic management smoother for people.

Why Timely Payment Matters

It is very important to pay your e-challan on time. It not only keeps your record clean but also avoids escalation of penalties. If you don’t pay the fine within the period given, you may have to pay extra charges and further legal action may be taken against you. In the most extreme cases, any outstanding fines may even lead to your driving license being suspended.

With the introduction of the e-Challan system, making payments has become a lot easier. You no longer have to visit a police station or stand in long queues at a payment counter. Thanks to digital payment options, you can check and pay fines instantly, whether through the Parivahan website or BangaloreOne.

So why wait? Paying your fines on time not only saves you money but also helps contribute to a safer and more orderly road environment. The convenience of online payments makes this process even simpler, encouraging more people to stay on top of their traffic obligations.

What is an E-Challan?

1. Understanding the E-Challan

An e-Challan or electronic challan, is a digital ticket issued by traffic authorities for violations of road rules. It’s a computer-generated document that contains all the necessary details about the offense—like the vehicle number, location and fine amount. An e-Challan does not involve the process of taking printouts and distributing them like traditional challans. Rather, it is issued and stored instantly through a centralized database. The idea is to replace the paper-based procedure and make it a more transparent and efficient process for dealing with traffic fines.

When you’re caught violating traffic rules in Bangalore, the e-Challan system immediately updates the record and you’ll be notified about the fine—whether it’s for speeding, improper parking or jumping a signal. The best part? You can check and pay your fine online through platforms like Parivahan or BangaloreOne.

2. How E-Challan Enhances Transparency & Reduces Corruption

It is one of the e-Challan goals to bring transparency in law enforcement for traffic contraventions. Traditionally, fines in traffic could be manipulated or avoided altogether and were, therefore, subject to much corruption in the process. It’s a fully automated process with no human interaction, taking bribery and favoritism.

The e-Challan is linked to a unique ID and is logged into a central system that allows traffic police to track violations in real-time. The data can now be easily verified by both – the violator and the authorities. This ensures that the fine applied is legitimate. This also means that the payment processing will be faster and more secure, as it happens online and is documented digitally.

3. Common Traffic Violations Resulting in E-Challans

E-Challans are issued for a wide range of traffic violations. Here are some of the most common offenses that result in an e-Challan in Bangalore:

a) Speeding
One of the most frequent violations, where vehicles exceed the prescribed speed limits on roads, especially in urban areas.

b) Running Red Lights
Jumping a traffic signal can lead to an e-Challan being issued instantly.

c) Not Wearing a Helmet or Seatbelt
Safety is a priority and failing to wear a helmet (for two-wheeler riders) or seatbelt (for car occupants) is a violation that leads to fines.

d) Parking Violations
Illegal parking in no-parking zones or blocking other vehicles can result in a fine and e-Challan issuance.

e) Using Mobile Phones While Driving
Despite being a common violation, many drivers continue to use mobile phones while driving, leading to fines.

f) Driving Without Valid Documents
Not carrying necessary documents, such as your driving license, vehicle registration or insurance, can also result in an e-Challan.

Each violation is captured using technology such as CCTV cameras, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) or direct observation by traffic police officers. The fines for these violations are then processed through the e-Challan system, providing a quick and secure way to handle the penalties.

How Does a Bangalore E-Challan Work?

For e-challans issued in Bangalore, the drivers need to remit the same to either the Bangalore traffic police or the Taxation Department of the Government of Karnataka on the Parivahan portal.

It contains the detail of the various traffic violations committed by you and the corresponding fine amount against it, along with the date by which it should be paid.

The Bangalore Traffic Police have given a machine to swipe and raise an E-Challan instantly. This system also maintains entry on the server of police for maintenance of digital record trail.

These include cameras installed across the Bangalore city with which the traffic police issue the Traffic E-challans. If a vehicle is caught committing traffic violation, the camera records the license plate number which is then sent the E-challan to the registered owner’s address in Bangalore.

Benefits of Paying E-Challan Online

1. Convenience: Pay From Anywhere, Anytime

Paying an e-Challan online brings unmatched convenience to your fingertips. Gone are the days of rushing to traffic police stations or standing in long queues. With just a few clicks, you can pay your traffic fines from the comfort of your home, office or even while on the go. Whether you’re sitting at a café or waiting for your friend, all you need is an internet connection and a device like a smartphone or laptop.

This convenience also means that you no longer need to worry about finding the right office, dealing with paperwork or managing office hours. The flexibility to pay fines 24/7 means that you can settle your dues at any time that suits you—no stress, no hassle.

2. Transparency: Clear Visibility of Fines and Violations

The e-Challan system ensures complete transparency in fines and violations. As opposed to the conventional systems in which fines at times would be hazy, confused and hard to trace, the detailed online platform describes the offense. You can see even the exact nature of the violation, with the date and time that it happened and the place where it occurred.

An identification number will be allocated to each e-Challan, which enables tracking and verification of the fine status. This does not leave any room for confusion or misinterpretation, as well as ensures that you pay only for genuine violations. And if you are not happy with the fine or you feel that there has been a mistake in imposing the fine on you, then you can also raise a question through their online platform or contact the concerned authority.

3. Time-Saving: No Need to Visit the Traffic Police Station

It saves precious time and with online payment system it is ensured that you’ve not wasted time. You no longer have to travel to the police station, fill out forms or spend time waiting in line to make a payment. All it takes is a few moments to enter your vehicle details and pay the fine directly through trusted online portals like BangaloreOne or the official Parivahan website.

This time-saving benefit becomes especially important when you’re busy with work or have a packed schedule. By eliminating the need for physical paperwork and visits, you can handle your fines quickly, allowing you to get back to your day without interruption.

How to Check E-Challan Status in Bangalore

1. Parivahan Website: Check E-Challan Status by Vehicle or Challan Number

The Parivahan website is a reliable tool for checking your e-Challan status in Bangalore. Follow these simple steps to stay updated on your traffic fines:

1. Visit the official Parivahan website: https://parivahan.gov.in.
2. Click on the “Check Challan Status” option under the “Online Services” tab.
3. You’ll be prompted to enter your Vehicle Number, Challan Number or Driver License Number.
4. Choose the preferred option and enter the required details.
5. Hit the “Get Details” button to view the status of your e-Challan. The page will display the violation details, fine amount and payment status.

This website offers a transparent, easy-to-navigate interface, making it simple to track your fines without hassle.

2. Bangalore Traffic Police Website: Quick and Easy Search

If you’re looking for a more Bangalore-specific method, the Bangalore Traffic Police website offers an efficient way to track your e-Challan. Here’s how to do it:

1. Go to the official Bangalore Traffic Police website: https://www.bangaloretrafficpolice.gov.in.
2. Look for the “E-Challan” section on the homepage or under the “Services” tab.
3. Click on “Check Challan Status” and enter your Vehicle Registration Number or Challan Number.
4. After entering the details, click “Submit.”
5. The website will show you the status of the challan, including fine details and payment options.

This method provides a direct way to interact with Bangalore’s own traffic enforcement system.

How to Pay E-Challan in Bangalore Online

1. Parivahan Website: Pay Your E-Challan Fines on the Government Portal

The Parivahan website offers a straightforward and secure method for paying your e-Challan fines online. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit the official Parivahan website: https://parivahan.gov.in.
2. On the homepage, click on Online Services and then select E-Challan Payment.
3. You’ll be redirected to a page where you can enter your Vehicle Number, Challan Number or Driver License Number.
4. Once you’ve entered the details, click on Get Details.
5. Review the fine details that appear on the screen, ensuring the information is correct.
6. Proceed to make the payment using any of the available payment options (credit card, debit card, net banking, etc.).
7. After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation receipt. You can download and save it for future reference.

Paying via the Parivahan portal is a secure and easy option, especially for those who prefer dealing with government platforms directly.

2. Bangalore Traffic Police Website: Quick Payment via Local Portal

If you’re specifically looking to pay through Bangalore’s official traffic police portal, follow these steps:

1. Go to the Bangalore Traffic Police website: https://www.bangaloretrafficpolice.gov.in.
2. On the homepage, look for the “E-Challan” section or click on the Services tab.
3. Click on Pay E-Challan and enter your Vehicle Registration Number or Challan Number.
4. A list of fines associated with your vehicle will appear. Verify the information.
5. Choose the payment option that suits you—credit card, debit card, net banking, etc.
6. Complete the payment process and keep a copy of the payment receipt.

This portal allows you to handle your traffic fines directly through the Bangalore Traffic Police website, offering a smooth and transparent payment process.

3. BangaloreOne Portal: Alternative Payment Option

The BangaloreOne portal is another excellent way to clear your e-Challan fines online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the BangaloreOne website: https://www.bangaloreone.gov.in.
2. On the homepage, click on the E-Challan Payment option.
3. You’ll be prompted to enter your Vehicle Registration Number.
4. Once the fines are displayed, confirm the details of the violation.
5. Choose your payment method (credit card, debit card, internet banking, etc.).
6. After payment, you will receive a confirmation message along with a receipt that can be saved or printed.

BangaloreOne offers an interface that’s simple to work with, transforming it into a smooth channel for paying fines, especially for residents who are used to the services conducted on this portal.

How to Pay E-Challan Offline

1. Traffic Police Station: Pay Your Fine at the Counter

You can prefer visiting a local Traffic Police Station for offline payment of your e-Challan as one of the many options. Here’s how you can do this: 

1. Locate Your Nearest Traffic Police Station: You can find the nearest traffic police station through online maps or by asking locals. Major stations usually handle a high volume of e-Challan payments.
2. Go to the Payment Counter: Once at the station, head to the counter dedicated to e-Challan fines. There are usually separate counters for payment processing.
3. Provide Necessary Details: To make the payment, you’ll need to provide your vehicle registration number, challan number or driver’s license number. Make sure to have any relevant documents with you for verification.
4. Make the Payment: After the details are verified, you can pay your fine either in cash or by using available digital payment methods, such as debit/credit cards.
5. Get a Receipt: Once the payment is processed, ask for a receipt as proof of payment. It’s essential to keep this document in case of any future disputes.

This option might take more time compared to online methods but can be useful for those who are not comfortable with digital platforms or need assistance with the payment process.

2. KarnatakaOne Centers: Pay at Your Convenience

KarnatakaOne Centers might be a good option if you are looking for an offline alternative outside the traffic police station. Here is how to pay your e-Challan at these centers:

1. Find a Karnataka One Center: KarnatakaOne centers are spread all over the city. You can find them either via the official website or cross-check with your nearby sources.
2. Visit the Center: Walk into the KarnatakaOne center during their working hours. These centers typically handle a variety of government services, including e-Challan payments.
3. Provide Your Information: Similar to the traffic police station, you will need to provide your vehicle registration number, challan number or license number to identify your fine.
4. Payment Options: Once your fine details are verified, you can pay using cash, debit/credit cards or other available payment methods.
5. Get a Receipt: After completing the payment, make sure to ask for an official receipt as proof of your transaction.

KarnatakaOne centers are a popular choice for offline payments, offering a streamlined process with multiple locations throughout Bangalore.

Traffic Violations and Penalties in Bangalore

Common Traffic Offenses and Their Penalties

Like every major city of India, Bangalore also has strict traffic laws to ensure safety and reduce accidents on road. Here’s a list of some common traffic violations with their penalty charges:

1. Driving Without a Helmet or Seatbelt
   • Penalty: Rs. 500
   • Whether you’re riding a two-wheeler or driving a car, wearing a helmet and seatbelt is non-negotiable. Not wearing them puts you at risk and attracts a fine of Rs. 500.
2. Over-Speeding
   • Penalty: Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 (depending on the vehicle)
   • Speeding is a serious offense in Bangalore, especially on busy roads. The fine varies depending on the type of vehicle, with penalties ranging from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000.
3. Drunk Driving
   • Penalty: Rs. 10,000
   • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited. The penalty for drunk driving is steep—Rs. 10,000—and can also lead to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.
4. Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
   • Penalty: Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000
   • Distraction caused by mobile phones can be deadly. The penalty for using your phone while driving ranges from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000, depending on the nature of the violation. This includes talking, texting or even browsing while behind the wheel.

Some Basic Traffic e-Challan Fines and Penalties in Bangalore

Traffic Violation	Challan Amount (Rs)
Driving Under Intoxication	First Offense: Rs. 10,000 and/or 6 months in prison Second Offense: Rs. 15,000 and/or 2 years in prison
Overloading Pillion Riders	Rs. 2,000 fine + disqualification of license and/or community service for 3 months
Over Speeding Vehicle	Rs. 1,000 for LMV, Rs. 2,000 for MMV
Driving Dangerously	Rs. 1,000 – Rs. 5,000, seizure of license and/or 6 months – 1 year in prison
Driving Without License	Rs. 5,000 and/or community service
Driving Without Valid Insurance	First Offense: Rs. 2,000 and/or 3 months in prison, community service Second Offense: Rs. 4,000
Signal Jumping	Rs. 1,000 – Rs. 5,000, license seizure and/or 6 months – 1 year in prison
Two-Wheeler Rider Without Helmet	Rs. 1,000 + license scrapping for 3 months
Riding Without Permit	Up to Rs. 10,000
Driving Without A Valid Driving License	Rs. 5,000 and/or community service
Unauthorized Driving Of A Vehicle	Rs. 5,000 and/or community service
Not Carrying Necessary Documents While Driving	Rs. 500
Traveling Without Ticket	Rs. 500
Driving Despite Disqualification	Rs. 10,000
Violating Licensing Conditions	Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 1 lakh
Driving Without a Valid Vehicle Fitness Certificate	Rs. 2,000 – Rs. 5,000
Driving Vehicle Without Registration Certificate	Rs. 2,000
Rules Of Road Regulation Violation	Rs. 500
Driving Below 18 Years Of Age	Rs. 25,000 with 3 years of imprisonment of guardian or owner
Not Obeying Orders Of The Authorities	Rs. 2,000
Oversized Vehicles	Rs. 5,000 – Rs. 10,000 and/or community service
Driving Without Fastening The Seat Belts	Rs. 1,000
Negligent Driving	Rs. 1,000
Racing Vehicle On Public Roads	Rs. 5,000
Not Making Way For Emergency Vehicles	Rs. 10,000
Stopping At Pedestrian From Crossing Or Zebra Cross	Rs. 100
Violating The Yellow Line	Rs. 100
Displaying ‘Applied For’ In Driving License Plate	Rs. 4,500
Improper Use Of Headlights And/Or Tail Lights While Driving	Rs. 100
Signal Jumping	Rs. 100
Over Speeding	Up to Rs. 1,000
Driving Under the Influence Of Alcohol And/Or Drugs	Rs. 10,000
Use Of Mobile Phone While Driving	Rs. 1,000
Use Of Horn In Silence Zone	Rs. 100
Driving Without a Valid Number Plate	Rs. 100
Using Obstruction To Other Vehicles And People	Rs. 100
Parking In ‘No Parking’ Zone	Rs. 100
Parking On Any Pedestrian Crossing	Rs. 100
Parking The Vehicle On Walkways	Rs. 100

Which Documents Are Required in Bangalore to Avoid Receiving an E-Challan?

• Driver’s License
• Certificate of Vehicle Registration
• Policy for Auto Insurance
• Certificate of Pollution Under Control

What to Do if You Are Issued the Wrong Traffic E-Challan in Bangalore?

CCTV cameras are another tool used in addition to traffic police to issue Bangalore E-Challans. The camera records the license plate number of the car if it is discovered to have broken a traffic law and the registered owner of the car receives the E-Challan.

Despite its convenience, it does suffer the risk of occasional inaccuracies, where the wrong vehicle is sometimes issued a fine. Don’t worry if this has occurred to you; there are solutions.

How to Terminate a Bangalore E-Challan:

Inform the Bangalore traffic police hotline that the incorrect challan was issued.

You can also explain your predicament to the Bangalore traffic police via email. Once they have confirmed your claims, they will respond to you.

To get it canceled, you are not need to pay the E-Challan fees.

What Happens if You Don’t Pay Your E-Challan Fine?

Not paying your e-Challan on time can result in serious ramifications. Here is what you need to know:

1. Legal Consequences:
   • Failing to pay the fine would increase the situation to court litigation and in some cases, court summonses may involve other additional fines or penalties which could be far more than the initial fine amount.
2. License Suspension:
   • Multiple unpaid penalties can lead to the suspension of your driving license. This means you will not be able to drive legally unless you clear the dues and settle the violations.
3. Vehicle Impoundment:
   • In extreme cases, it may take a lot of time for the fine to be delivered up to the cops can impound your vehicle.
4. Interest on Unpaid Fines:
   • If you delay the payment, you may also be charged an additional interest or late fee, making it more expensive to settle the fine later on.

By paying your fines promptly, you avoid the hassle of facing legal issues, additional penalties or complications with your driving license. It’s always better to clear the fines as soon as possible to maintain a smooth driving experience in Bangalore.

What Happens if You Don’t Pay Your Bangalore E-Challan or Exceed its Validity?

You risk facing legal repercussions if you don’t pay your E-Challan within the allotted time. Depending on the seriousness of your traffic infraction, these may take the shape of fines, additional penalties, jail time or license suspension.

The court will send a summons to your household address. After that, you have to show up for your court hearing so that the judge may go over the specifics of your traffic infraction. Your driver’s license will be suspended if you don’t show up for your court appearance.

Safety Rules You Must Follow to Avoid Challans

• The E-challan laws of Bangalore state that in order to prevent accidents and fines for exceeding the speed limit, one should never go over it.
• One can significantly lower the risk of injury during accidents and prevent unexpected e-challan inspections within the city by donning a helmet or fastening one’s seatbelt.
• Never operate a car while intoxicated as it impairs driving abilities and raises the risk of collisions.
• Avoid talking on the phone while driving to protect not just yourself but also other drivers. 

Guidelines to Adhere to in Order to Prevent Bangalore Police Electronic Challenges

Bangalore’s congested streets and heavy traffic make it harder to navigate the city’s roads. Adherence to basic road safety regulations must be prioritized in order to address these problems. It will guarantee the safety of yourself and other road users as well as pedestrians.

The benefits of better safety obey the rules of the road for efficient traffic movement. Remember the following important rules while driving or riding a bicycle in Bangalore:

• Respect the overtaking rules.
• When driving, use the proper signals.
• Observe certain speed restrictions.
• Always wear a seatbelt.
• Practice using the left side of the road when driving.
• Observe and abide by traffic signals.
• When riding a bike or scooter, wear a helmet.
• Avoid using your phone while operating a motor vehicle.

Some more Guidelines to Follow

• Overloading Thus: Commercial vehicles that transport goods are to adhere to the allowable weight limitations according to the law. Vehicles become unstable and also cause spillage during accidents on highways, which leads to fatality. 
• No Driving Under Influence of Alcohol: Driving under the influence of alcohol constitutes a very important risk factor for deaths from accidents; culpability is as much on the drunken driver as on any other motorist. Alcohol inhibits alertness and coordination; therefore, no one should drive under its influence for the sake of safety.
• It is obligatory to respect traffic signals and stop signs. As responsible citizens, we must take heed of traffic signals and signs such as speed limits, stopping at red lights and following the other requirements of traffic rules.
• Upspeed: More or less, accidents are caused by overspeeding on roads. High speed would compromise vehicle control so much that the chances of collision and injury severity increase.
• Use a Seat Belt While Driving: Every driver should follow the prime rule of wearing a seatbelt while taking a drive with a vehicle because seatbelts act as a safety measure for the driver; it should be buckled to section off possible damages during an accident. 
• To Maintain Lane Discipline: One has to know that it is imperative to maintain lane discipline while driving, whether it is on the highways or in city limits. Avoid overtaking from the left or suddenly changing lanes. In India, there is a 3-lane system with the left lane for slow-moving traffic, the middle lane for moderate speeds and the right for faster-moving automobiles. 
• Wear a Helmet on Two Wheels: It is necessary to wear a helmet when riding a two-wheeler such as a motorcycle or scooter. The riders on two-wheelers are much more

Conclusion

The e-Challan system in Bangalore offers a convenient and transparent way to manage traffic fines, saving time and reducing the chances of corruption. It is very easy to check and pay fines through different online platforms such as the Parivahan website or the Bangalore Traffic Police portal. Staying updated on traffic violations and penalties, not paying fines on time, might attract serious penalties like suspension of the driving license and case initiation. 

Paying fines on time renders a person hassle-free from having to not only drive safely but contribute toward safety on roads for all. So stay safe and comply with traffic rules while using the easy online payment options of clearing unnecessary penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions – E-Challan System in Bangalore

Q1. What is an e-Challan in Bangalore?

Ans1. An e-Challan is the form of electronic challan that is issued for traffic violations in Bangalore. It allows drivers to pay fines either online or offline by using this electronic challan, thus enabling the streamlining of the whole process of enforcement and providing transparency.

Q2. How can I check my e-Challan status in Bangalore?

Ans2. You can check your e-Challan status through the Parivahan website or Bangalore Traffic Police website. Simply enter your vehicle number or challan number to view the details.

Q3. How do I pay my e-Challan online in Bangalore?

Ans3. To pay online, you can use the Parivahan website, Bangalore Traffic Police portal or the BangaloreOne portal. You’ll need to enter your challan number or vehicle number, then proceed with payment using debit/credit cards or online banking.

Q4. What happens if I don’t pay my e-Challan fine on time?

Ans4. If you don’t pay your e-Challan fine on time, it may result in late payment penalties, suspension of your driving license or even legal consequences. Repeated violations can also lead to court appearances.

Q5. Can I pay my e-Challan offline in Bangalore?

Ans5. Yes, you can pay offline at any Bangalore Traffic Police station or at KarnatakaOne centers. Simply visit the counter with your challan details to make the payment.

Q6. What are the common traffic violations that lead to an e-Challan?

Ans6. Common violations include driving without a helmet or seatbelt, over-speeding, drunk driving, using a mobile phone while driving, jumping red lights and parking violations.

Q7. How can I avoid traffic fines in Bangalore?

Ans7. To avoid fines, follow traffic rules such as wearing a helmet or seatbelt, adhering to speed limits, avoiding drunk driving and not using a mobile phone while driving. Stay updated on road safety guidelines.

Q8. How long does it take for an e-Challan to be updated in the system?

Ans8. Usually e-Challans are updated in the system within 24-48 hours, depending on the speed of processing of data in the traffic enforcement system.

Q9. Can I challenge an e-Challan if I believe it was issued incorrectly?

Ans9. Yes, you can challenge an e-Challan by filing a grievance on the Bangalore Traffic Police website or visiting the concerned authority. Make sure to provide valid evidence supporting your case.

Q10. Are there any additional charges for paying e-Challan online?

Ans10. No, there are no additional charges for paying your e-Challan online through official platforms like Parivahan or Bangalore Traffic Police website. Payment is accepted as per the fine amount mentioned.

Q11. What should I do if I don’t receive an e-Challan despite a traffic violation?

Ans11. If you believe you’ve committed a violation but haven’t received an e-Challan, you can manually check your challan status on the Parivahan or Bangalore Traffic Police websites. If it’s not listed, contact the traffic police.

Q12. What are the penalties for drunk driving in Bangalore?

Ans12. The penalty for drunk driving in Bangalore is a fine of Rs. 10,000 and possible imprisonment, along with a suspension of your driving license, depending on the severity of the offense.

Q13. Can I pay multiple e-Challans at once?

Ans13. Yes, you can pay multiple e-Challans at once if they are linked to the same vehicle or driver. This can be done via online platforms like Parivahan or the Bangalore Traffic Police website.

Q14. What is the penalty for using a mobile phone while driving in Bangalore?

Ans14. The penalty for using a mobile phone while driving in Bangalore ranges from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000, depending on the nature of the offense and whether it causes any accidents or other traffic hazards.