Panchkula Tribunal’s Big Verdict: Who Will Pay for Young Pedestrian’s Death?

Panchkula: More than a year after a tragic road accident claimed the life of a 20-year-old pedestrian in Yamunanagar, Haryana, the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT), Panchkula, has delivered its judgment. The tribunal has ordered a compensation of ₹20.57 lakh to be paid to the victim’s family, along with 6% annual interest.

How the accident happened

The victim, Ashu, a diploma holder in carpentry and trainee with Haryana Roadways, was returning to his native village Batwal in Panchkula with his cousin on July 31, 2024, after a trip to Haridwar. Around 9 pm, while walking near Shiv Mandir in Kanipala village, he was hit from behind by a motorcycle driven by Naresh in a rash and negligent manner.

Ashu sustained severe injuries and was rushed to the civil hospital in Sadhoura. He was later referred to Jagadhri and finally to PGIMER Chandigarh, where he succumbed to his injuries on August 1, 2024.

Legal proceedings

Ashu’s parents filed a claim petition in October 2024 against Naresh, the motorcycle’s owner-driver, and United India Insurance Company Limited. During the trial, it was established that Naresh was driving without a valid licence, which amounted to a violation of the insurance policy terms.

As a result, the tribunal absolved the insurance company of liability and directed Naresh to personally compensate the family.

Tribunal’s order

The court awarded ₹20.57 lakh as compensation to Ashu’s parents. The amount includes pecuniary damages such as loss of dependency and future earnings. The tribunal also directed that the sum be paid with 6% annual interest until realization.

FIR and accountability

Following the incident, an FIR was registered at Sadhoura police station against Naresh. The tribunal’s decision further underlines the legal consequences of rash driving and driving without a licence, holding Naresh solely responsible for the tragic loss.