New Delhi, Aug 24 A Delhi Motor Accident Claims Tribunal has awarded Rs 25.21 lakh compensation to an 18-year-old student who suffered 23 per cent permanent disability in his right lower limb after being hit by a tractor in 2024.
Presiding Officer Vikram was hearing a claim petition filed by Shivam, who got injured when he was returning home from tuition classes with his uncle on June 7, 2024, and a tractor hit him from behind.
The tribunal directed the driver and vehicle owner to deposit the amount within 30 days with interest at 9 per cent per annum from July 8, 2024. In case of delay, interest would be payable at 12 per cent per annum.
In an order dated August 20, the tribunal said, “It is held that the rashness and negligence on the part of driver of the offending vehicle, which is clearly visible and as such, was responsible not only for this accident, but also for everything that followed thereafter”.
According to prosecution, Shivam was rushed to Shri Balaji Action Medical Institute, where he was diagnosed with a badly crushed right foot and multiple fractures and dislocations. He subsequently suffered 23 per cent permanent disability in his right lower limb.
It noted that the vehicle was insured under a policy meant for agricultural use, but at the time of the accident it was attached to a safety tanker bearing the Delhi Jal Board marking.
The tribunal held that the tractor appeared to have been deployed for commercial or municipal work, in breach of the policy.
The tribunal assessed the total compensation at Rs 27.21 lakh but held that the petitioner was entitled to Rs 25.21 lakh after excluding the relevant interim award and interest as directed in the order.
The amount includes compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, future loss of earnings, special diet, attendant and conveyance charges, loss of studies and amenities, agony to parents and loss of marriage prospects.
It directed that Rs 5 lakh along with accrued interest be released to Shivam, while the remaining amount be kept in fixed deposits and released to him periodically.
