These 9 Common Driving Mistakes Could Cost You Up to RM2,000 in Fines

In 2025, enforcement by JPJ and PDRM has become stricter, with fines reaching up to RM2,000 for certain violations. Here's a breakdown of 9 common offenses and what you need to know to avoid them.

1. Using mobile phones while driving

Using a mobile phone while driving is one of the most dangerous distractions on the road. It reduces reaction time, impairs judgment, and increases the risk of collisions. Studies show that texting while driving is as dangerous as drunk driving. Even hands-free calls can divert your attention from the road. To avoid: Use Bluetooth or hands-free systems. Better yet, pull over safely if you need to take a call or send a message.

• Fine: RM150–RM1,000
• Compound rate: RM150 (if paid early)
• Court fine: Up to RM1,000

2. Crossing the white line at traffic lights

Stopping beyond the white line at a red light is a violation of traffic signal rules. It can obstruct pedestrian crossings and confuse other drivers. This offense is often caught by AES cameras and can lead to blacklisting if unpaid.

How to avoid: Slow down as you approach traffic lights and stop before the white line. Always anticipate the light change.

• Fine: RM150–RM2,000
• Compound rate: RM150–RM300
• Court fine: Up to RM2,000

3. Parking on a yellow line

Parking on yellow lines is prohibited because it disrupts traffic flow and endangers pedestrians. Illegally parked vehicles can block emergency access, cause congestion, and lead to accidents. To avoid, look for legal parking zones and avoid stopping in restricted areas, especially near intersections or pedestrian crossings.

• Fine: RM150–RM2,000
• Standard fine: RM150
• Repeat offenses: Up to RM2,000

4. Tailgating other vehicles

Tailgating is a form of aggressive driving that increases the risk of rear-end collisions. It’s not just rude, it’s dangerous as tailgating reduces your ability to react to sudden stops or obstacles. Instead, maintain a safe following distance. Use the 3-second rule: pick a landmark and ensure you pass it at least 3 seconds after the car in front.

• ​Fine: RM150–RM1,000
• Compound fine: RM150–RM300
• Court fine: Up to RM1,000

5. Making unauthorised u-turns

Making a U-turn at a non-designated spot can disrupt traffic and cause accidents. Unauthorised U-turns often occur at blind spots or busy intersections, increasing the risk of collisions. Don't risk it, follow road signs and wait for proper U-turn zones. If you miss a turn, proceed to the next legal point.

• Fine: RM150

6. Not wearing seatbelts

Seatbelts are your first line of defense in a crash. Not wearing one is a serious safety violation. Seatbelts reduce the risk of fatal injury by up to 50%. Rear passengers must also buckle up.

How to avoid: Make it a habit to check seatbelts before starting the car. Educate passengers on the importance of wearing them.

• Fine: RM150–RM350
• Compound fine: RM150
• Repeat offenses: Up to RM350

​7. Using the emergency lane

Emergency lanes are reserved for ambulances, police, and breakdowns. Using them illegally delays emergency response and endangers lives. Blocking emergency lanes can prevent life-saving services from reaching their destination. Make sure to stay in your lane, even during traffic jams. Emergency lanes are not shortcuts.

• Fine: RM150–RM300
• Compound fine: RM150
• Court fine: Up to RM300

8. Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common causes of road fatalities. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. Remember that AES cameras are active on highways and urban roads. Know the speed limits for each road type.

• Fine: RM150–RM300
• <40 km/h over limit: RM150
• >40 km/h over limit: RM300

9. Ignoring traffic light signals

Running a red light is a high-risk offense that endangers everyone on the road. This offense is often caught on camera and can result in serious collisions, especially at busy intersections. Always slow down when approaching traffic lights. Never try to “beat the red.”

• Fine: RM150–RM300
• Compound fine: RM150–RM300
• AES detection: May lead to blacklisting

Pay early, avoid trouble

Failing to settle your traffic summonses can lead to serious consequences, including being blacklisted by JPJ, which prevents you from renewing your road tax or driving license. If left unpaid, these fines may escalate to court action, resulting in higher penalties and potential legal trouble.

To avoid this, it’s best to pay your fines promptly, most compound fines offer significant discounts if settled within 15 days. For example, a RM300 fine could be reduced to RM150, depending on the timing and payment method.

Additionally, keep an eye out for special campaigns by PDRM, such as the MADANI initiative, which occasionally offers up to 50% off selected summonses. Payments can be made easily through platforms like MyBayar Saman, JPJ’s official portal, MYEG, or RILEK.