Thane MACT Awards ₹63.88 Lakh To Family Of Deceased SBARRO Manager

A Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Thane has awarded ₹63.88 lakh in compensation to the family of a 34-year-old SBARRO store manager who died in a truck accident near Kopri Bridge in 2018.

The accident occurred on June 4, 2018, when the victim, Sharad Bhimrao Gaikwad, was travelling as a pillion rider on a motorcycle. A speeding truck lost control and hit the motorcycle, causing serious injuries to Gaikwad and the rider. Gaikwad succumbed to his injuries on June 13, 2018.

The tribunal, presided over by Member R.V. Mohite, held that the accident was caused solely by the rash and negligent driving of the truck driver. The tribunal directed the truck owner and Shriram General Insurance Co. Ltd. to pay the compensation jointly and severally within one month.

The insurance company had disputed the truck's involvement in the accident, citing a delay in the registration of the FIR and questioning the driver's identity. However, the tribunal rejected these objections, noting that the delay was adequately explained by the family's need to secure medical treatment for the victim.

The tribunal relied on the testimony of the injured motorcycle rider, the truck driver's evidence, police records, and the charge sheet to conclude that the truck driver was solely responsible for the accident. The tribunal also rejected the insurance company's contention that there had been a breach of the insurance policy, holding that the driver possessed a valid driving licence and the vehicle had a valid permit and fitness certificate at the time of the accident.

The compensation award includes 9% annual interest and is intended to support the family of the deceased. The tribunal's decision is a significant step towards providing justice and compensation to the victims of road accidents.

The accident highlights the need for responsible driving and the importance of ensuring that vehicles are properly maintained and insured. The tribunal's decision also underscores the need for insurance companies to fulfill their obligations and provide fair compensation to victims and their families.

In recent years, there have been several instances of road accidents in Thane, resulting in loss of life and property. The authorities have taken steps to improve road safety, including the installation of traffic cameras and the implementation of stricter traffic laws.

The MACT's decision in this case is a welcome step towards providing justice and compensation to the victims of road accidents. It is hoped that the decision will serve as a deterrent to reckless drivers and encourage insurance companies to fulfill their obligations.

The family of the deceased has welcomed the tribunal's decision, expressing relief that justice has been served. The decision is also expected to provide a sense of closure for the family, who have been fighting for compensation for several years.

In conclusion, the Thane MACT's decision to award ₹63.88 lakh in compensation to the family of the deceased SBARRO manager is a significant step towards providing justice and compensation to the victims of road accidents. The decision highlights the need for responsible driving and the importance of ensuring that vehicles are properly maintained and insured.

The authorities must continue to take steps to improve road safety and prevent such accidents from occurring in the future. The insurance companies must also fulfill their obligations and provide fair compensation to victims and their families. Only then can we hope to reduce the number of road accidents and provide justice and compensation to those who have been affected by them.

The decision is a reminder that the law is in place to protect the rights of citizens and provide justice to those who have been wronged. It is a significant step towards creating a safer and more just society, where the rights of all citizens are protected and respected.