If you or someone you know faces a road accident, understanding the compensation process can help avoid delays and ensure claims do not get stuck. The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) is responsible for handling such cases in India, providing compensation for injuries, disability, or death. However, many people are unaware of this system, leading to missed opportunities for rightful compensation. Here is a simplified guide to the process, eligibility, required documents, and some real-life examples to understand better.
Inform the Police Immediately After an Accident
The first step after an accident is to inform the police. The police play a crucial role in coordinating with MACT. They will register the case, complete the investigation, and file the necessary paperwork to help victims or families process their claims. The investigating officer will also prepare and submit the charge sheet to the tribunal, which makes it easier for the claimant to receive compensation.
Who Can Claim Compensation and Where?
According to Section 166 of the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988, the following individuals are eligible to claim compensation:
- The injured person
- The owner of any damaged property
- Legal heirs of a deceased person in case of death
The claim can be filed in various locations, such as:
- Where the victim or claimant resides
- The area where the accident took place
- The region where the accused driver or owner resides
How to File a Claim Without a Lawyer
A claim can be filed independently by the victim or their family on a court fee ticket of just Rs. 10. However, it is important to note that the claim must be submitted within six months from the date of the accident to avoid delays or rejection.
Important Documents Required for Compensation Claims
Having the right documents ensures your claim process goes smoothly. Make sure to gather the following:
- FIR registered by the police
- Medical reports and hospital bills
- Proof of income and employment (if applicable)
- Post-mortem report (in case of death)
- Vehicle insurance and registration papers
- Aadhar card or ID proof of the claimant
How the Tribunal Decides the Compensation Amount
MACT considers several factors while deciding the compensation amount. These include the victim’s age, income, family background, number of dependents, and the extent of injury or disability. Below are two real-life examples to illustrate how compensation is determined:
- Vikrant’s Case: A supervisor from Delhi named Vikrant lost his leg in an accident caused by a cluster bus. Due to 88% disability, the tribunal awarded him Rs. 96 lakh after considering his future loss of income and young age.
- Roy Family’s Case: Dhirendra Chandra Thakurdas Roy, an ONGC general manager, lost his life in an accident in Maharashtra. His wife, two daughters, and elderly mother received Rs. 2.85 crore, one of the highest compensations awarded in recent years.
Compensation for Hit-and-Run Cases
Even if the responsible driver is not caught, victims or their families can receive compensation from the Solasium Fund. This fund offers:
- Rs. 2 lakh to the family of a deceased victim
- Rs. 50,000 to those left disabled after the accident
By following the correct steps and keeping all documents ready, victims and their families can successfully claim the compensation they deserve. You can approach the MACT office in your district to initiate the process.
