In a poignant resolution to a case dating back nearly a decade, the Thane Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) has ordered a substantial compensation of over Rs 48 lakh to the kin of two cousins who perished in a tragic road accident in 2014. The verdict, aimed at providing some solace to the bereaved families, was passed on August 9 and publicly disclosed this Monday.
The accident, which occurred in Shelavli village on December 5, 2014, involved Shyam Gopal Farde, 40, and Gurunath Govind Farde, 26, both hailing from Farde Pada in Shahapur. The cousins were riding on a scooter when they were struck by a speeding vehicle, leading to fatal injuries.
MACT Chairman SB Agrawal mandated the vehicle’s owner and the New India Assurance Company to disburse the compensation, dividing it between the families of the deceased. Shyam Farde’s family was granted Rs 32,29,000, while Gurunath Farde’s relatives received Rs 16,00,000.
Furthermore, both families are entitled to an annual interest of 7.50% from the date the claim was filed, although the tribunal specified that this interest does not apply to the portion of the award meant to cover future prospects.
During the proceedings, the insurance company’s defense was dismissed by Chairman Agrawal as “palpably frivolous.” The case saw the vehicle owner default by not appearing before the tribunal, resulting in an ex-parte decision against him. Meanwhile, the insurance representative, advocate AK Tiwari, contested the claims on several grounds but failed to sway the tribunal’s final judgment.
Advocate MA Pendse, representing the victims’ families, successfully argued that the accident was caused by the reckless driving of the four-wheeler’s driver, who was operating the vehicle at an excessive speed.
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With the tribunal’s decision, it affirmed that the respondents, including the insurance company, were indeed liable for the accident, rejecting any notions that sought to diminish this responsibility. This ruling not only offers financial relief but also underscores the importance of accountability in road safety and motor vehicle insurance practices.
