The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal in Thane has ordered the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation to pay Rs 18.61 lakh in compensation to the family of a 62-year-old man who died following a collision with a state-run bus in 2022.
Passing the order on July 18, MACT Member R. V. Mohite directed the transport corporation to deposit Rs 18,61,972 along with nine per cent interest per annum, calculated from the date the claim petition was filed. The tribunal set a one-month deadline for MSRTC to pay the amount to the deceased driver’s widow and two children.
Tribunal Rejects Defense Arguments
The claim arose from a November 26, 2022 crash on the Kinhavali-Titwala road in Murbad, where a state transport bus struck a scooter driven by Ramesh Ghag. Ghag sustained severe injuries and underwent medical treatment at hospitals in Murbad, Dombivli, and Mumbai before succumbing on December 10, 2022.
During the tribunal proceedings, MSRTC denied liability, arguing that Ghag had attempted an improper overtaking maneuver from the wrong side and was equally responsible for the accident.
However, the tribunal dismissed the transport corporation’s claims. The tribunal noted that police had charge-sheeted the bus driver, yet neither the driver nor MSRTC had challenged the FIR or alleged false prosecution. It added that MSRTC failed to present any independent eyewitnesses or passengers who were traveling on the bus at the time of the incident.
The tribunal ruled that the bus driver had the final opportunity to prevent the crash and found no evidence on record indicating contributory negligence by the victim, holding the driver solely responsible due to reckless driving.
Income Assessment And Legal Representation
While determining the compensation payout, the tribunal evaluated Ghag’s notional monthly income at Rs 16,000. It rejected the family’s claim that Ghag earned Rs 40,000 per month as a carpenter and businessman, citing a lack of documentary evidence.
In the proceedings, Advocate S. L. Mane represented the claimants, while Advocate H. P. Patil appeared on behalf of MSRTC.
