In a landmark judgment that underscores the importance of adequate compensation for road accident victims, the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Delhi has awarded ₹1.2 crore to a man who suffered permanent disabilities following a tragic 2019 accident.
The Life-Altering Incident
The case revolves around a devastating incident that occurred on September 24, 2019, when the victim was struck by a vehicle in Delhi. The collision resulted in severe injuries that permanently altered the course of his life, leaving him with multiple disabilities that affected his mobility and overall quality of life.
Court's Comprehensive Compensation Breakdown
MACT Presiding Officer Kiran Gupta delivered a meticulously calculated compensation package that accounts for various aspects of the victim's suffering and future needs:
- Loss of future earnings: ₹97,44,384
- Pain and suffering: ₹5,00,000
- Medical expenses: ₹5,00,000
- Attendant charges: ₹3,60,000
- Loss of amenities and enjoyment of life: ₹4,00,000
- Conveyance and nutritious diet: ₹2,00,000 each
Legal Proceedings and Evidence
The tribunal carefully examined medical documentation that revealed the victim suffered multiple fractures in his right lower limb, leading to permanent disability. Medical boards assessed his disability at 70% in relation to his right lower limb and 35% in relation to his whole body.
Despite the vehicle owner's absence from proceedings, the court proceeded based on substantial evidence presented, including medical records, disability certificates, and expert testimonies that clearly established the direct connection between the accident and the victim's permanent disabilities.
Broader Implications for Accident Victims
This ruling sets an important precedent for how Indian courts assess compensation in cases involving permanent disability. The comprehensive approach to calculating damages considers not just immediate medical costs but also long-term financial impacts, quality of life deterioration, and the emotional trauma associated with life-altering injuries.
The judgment emphasizes that compensation must reflect the true magnitude of suffering and loss experienced by accident victims, particularly when disabilities permanently affect earning capacity and personal independence.
