Supreme Court Clarifies Compensation Rules for Loss of Dependency in Fatal Accident
The Supreme Court upheld the High Court’s decision, affirming the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal’s award of ₹76.63 lakhs with 9% interest. It rejected the insurer’s plea to reduce the multiplier, holding that remarriage of the widow did not negate dependency claims of minor children. The Court also clarified that future prospects and interest apply from the claim filing date, emphasizing timely compensation. Delay in adjudication was not solely attributable to claimants, justifying the interest rate. The judgment reinforces precedent-based compensation principles in fatal accident cases.
Facts Of The Case:
The case involved a fatal motor accident that occurred on 18 November 1995, when a car collided with a truck due to the alleged rash and negligent driving of the truck driver. The dece...