Thane MACT Awards ₹22.62 Lakh To Gym Trainer Injured In MSRTC Bus Accident

A Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Thane has ordered the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to pay ₹22.62 lakh in compensation to a 38-year-old gym trainer. The trainer, Nalini Kamthe, was injured in a 2020 accident involving an MSRTC bus.

The accident occurred on October 19, 2020, when Kamthe was riding her Activa on the Mumbai-bound lane near the Hari Om Nagar police outpost. An MSRTC bus allegedly hit her from behind at high speed, causing severe crush injuries, multiple fractures, and a head injury.

Kamthe spent over ₹10 lakh on medical treatment and claimed she was earning around ₹62,000 annually before the accident. She worked as a gym trainer and conducted private yoga and fitness classes.

The MSRTC contested the claim, arguing that the bus was being driven at a slow and moderate speed and that the accident occurred due to Kamthe's own negligence. However, the tribunal held that the accident occurred due to the rash and negligent driving of the MSRTC bus driver.

The tribunal noted that the police had registered an FIR against the bus driver, who has since passed away. Neither the driver nor the MSRTC challenged the FIR before higher authorities or sought its quashing before the High Court.

The tribunal awarded Kamthe compensation, concluding that the injuries had caused permanent disability, significantly affecting her earning capacity and quality of life. The compensation includes 9 per cent annual interest.

The MACT's decision is a significant victory for Kamthe, who has been struggling to recover from her injuries. The case highlights the importance of holding drivers and transport corporations accountable for their actions on the road.

The MSRTC has been directed to pay the compensation to Kamthe, bringing an end to her long and difficult journey. The tribunal's decision is a reminder that victims of road accidents have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and losses.

In recent years, there have been several cases of road accidents involving MSRTC buses in Maharashtra. The state government has taken steps to improve road safety, including increasing penalties for reckless driving and improving the condition of roads.

However, more needs to be done to prevent such accidents from occurring in the future. The MACT's decision in this case is a step in the right direction, as it holds the driver and the transport corporation accountable for their actions.

The case also highlights the importance of seeking compensation for injuries and losses. Victims of road accidents should not hesitate to seek legal advice and file claims for compensation.

In conclusion, the Thane MACT's decision to award ₹22.62 lakh in compensation to Nalini Kamthe is a significant victory for the victim and a reminder of the importance of holding drivers and transport corporations accountable for their actions on the road.