The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Maharashtra’s Thane district has awarded ₹35.24 lakh as compensation to the family of a businessman who died following a road accident in 2021. The order was passed on Monday by Tribunal Member R V Mohite, who held both the vehicle owner and Shriram General Insurance Co. Ltd. jointly and severally liable to pay the amount along with 9% annual interest from the date of filing the claim petition until its deposit.
The incident occurred on the night of May 19, 2021, when Rakesh Gupta, a resident of Bhayandar, was returning home on his scooter. A speeding motorcycle rammed into his two-wheeler, causing him severe injuries. Despite medical treatment, Gupta succumbed to his injuries on June 6, 2021. The Navghar police registered a case against the motorcyclist under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Motor Vehicles Act.
The insurer, Shriram General Insurance Co. Ltd., opposed the compensation claim, arguing that Gupta himself was negligent, riding in a zig-zag manner without a helmet. However, the tribunal rejected the contention, noting that the company had failed to produce any witness or present evidence to support its allegations.
The deceased’s family — comprising his wife, minor son, and elderly parents — had claimed that Gupta earned ₹35,000 per month from his furniture business. However, citing the absence of documentary proof such as business records or bank statements, the tribunal assessed his notional monthly income at ₹18,000.
Using standard principles under motor accident compensation law, the tribunal arrived at a total compensation of ₹35.24 lakh. It directed that the amount be deposited within a month.
