The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) at Thane has directed payment of compensation amounting to ₹26.21 lakh to the family of a 40-year-old man who lost his life in an autorickshaw accident in 2018.
Tribunal Member R.V. Mohite held the vehicle owner solely liable for the payment of compensation, rejecting the contention of Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Co. Ltd. that the insurance policy covering the autorickshaw was fabricated. The owner of the vehicle, Tayyab Mohammed Baig, did not appear before the tribunal and was proceeded ex parte.
The fatal accident occurred on May 4, 2018. The tribunal found that the autorickshaw driver was engaged in chewing a tobacco-like substance during the ride. In an attempt to retrieve the pouch after it fell inside the vehicle, he lost control, causing the autorickshaw to collide with a roadside tree. The tribunal categorically held that the accident was a result of rash and negligent driving and that no contributory negligence could be attributed to the deceased, who was employed with a logistics company.
In computing the compensation, the tribunal assessed pecuniary loss, future prospects, consortium, funeral charges, and other applicable heads, ultimately awarding ₹26.21 lakh. The award also carries an interest rate of 9% per annum from the date of filing the petition until realization.
