Supreme Court Ruling on LMV Licence Holders Driving Transport Vehicles

Source: This post on Supreme Court Ruling on LMV Licence Holders Driving Transport Vehicles has been created based on the article “LMV licence holders can drive transport vehicles weighing less than 7,500 kg: SC” published in The Hindu on 7th November 2024.

Why in news?

Recently, a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court ruled that holders of a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) licence can also drive transport vehicles weighing under 7,500 kg without needing additional authorization.

Key Details of the Judgment

1. A valid LMV licence entitles drivers to operate transport vehicles with an unladen weight not exceeding 7,500 kg. The Court dismissed the Insurance company’s argument that allowing LMV licence holders to drive transport vehicles increases road accident risks.

2. This decision benefits numerous commercial drivers, overturning insurance companies’ denial of accident claims on the grounds of “unauthorized” driving.

3. Legal Basis: The judgment references Section 10(2)(e) of the Motor Vehicle (MV) Act, stating that drivers with LMV licence do not require additional endorsement for the “transport vehicle” category if the vehicle’s weight falls within the specified limit.

4. Justice Roy emphasizing that core driving skills are universally required across both transport and non-transport vehicle categories.

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