Delhi MACT Awards ₹1.56 Crore Compensation To Family Of Woman Killed In Noida Accident

A Motor Accident Claims Tribunal in Delhi has awarded ₹1.56 crore as compensation to the family of a 26-year-old woman who lost her life following a road accident in Noida in October 2023. The order was passed by Presiding Officer Pooja Aggarwal while hearing a petition filed by the victim’s mother and sister against the driver, vehicle owner, and insurance company.

The incident occurred on October 20, 2023, when the woman was returning home on a motorcycle with a colleague. Near Sector 62 in Noida, a speeding car rammed into multiple vehicles before crashing into their bike from behind. Although she initially survived, she later succumbed to her injuries on January 2, 2024.

The tribunal observed that the nature of the collision itself indicated rash and negligent driving. Referring to the legal principle of res ipsa loquitur—meaning the accident speaks for itself—it stated that victims are not required to prove negligence beyond reasonable doubt in such cases.

Rejecting the driver’s claim that a tyre burst and involvement of another vehicle caused the crash, the tribunal noted the absence of any supporting evidence. It also pointed out that once the chargesheet establishes the occurrence of an accident, the responsibility shifts to the accused to prove otherwise, which they failed to do.

While medical testimony suggested the accident was not the direct cause of death, the tribunal concluded it was the underlying factor that led to complications and eventual demise due to post-operative issues like septic shock.

The compensation amount was calculated after considering factors such as loss of dependency, medical expenses, and loss of consortium for the family.