Introduction
Road accidents can cause serious injuries, loss of life, and damage to property. The Motor Vehicles Act provides a legal remedy for victims to claim compensation. Whether you are an injured person, the legal heir of a deceased victim, or the owner of damaged property, the law offers a structured process to seek financial relief.
You can file a compensation claim before the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT). This tribunal examines the nature of the accident, the extent of damage, and liability. The Act ensures that victims or their families receive fair compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, or death.
Who Can Apply For Motor Accident Claims
If you’re injured or lose a loved one in a motor vehicle accident, you can file for compensation under Section 166 of the Motor Vehicles Act. The application can be made by the injured person, the property owner, or the legal representatives of the deceased. A legally authorized agent can also file the claim. Even if all legal representatives don’t apply together, the claim must still benefit all. They should be added as respondents in the claim. However, if compensation is accepted under Section 164, any pending claim petition will lapse.
Where and When to File the Compensation Claim
Claimants can file their application with a Claims Tribunal in the area where the accident occurred, where they live or work, or where the opposite party resides. All claims must be filed within six months from the date of the accident. Accident reports sent to the Tribunal under Section 159 will be treated as valid applications for compensation. Even if an injured person dies later, the right to claim compensation survives through their legal heirs, regardless of the cause of death.
What Are The Claims for Tribunal Procedure and Compensation Award
Once the Tribunal receives a claim, it will notify the insurer and all involved parties. After a hearing, it will determine a fair compensation amount and assign responsibility to the insurer, owner, or driver. The Tribunal will share the award decision with all parties within 15 days. The liable party must deposit the awarded amount within 30 days of the announcement. Claimants can seek compensation either under the Motor Vehicles Act or the Workmen’s Compensation Act, not both.
Conclusion
Compensation after a motor vehicle accident follows a clear legal route under Section 166 of the Motor Vehicles Act. The law allows multiple types of claimants and offers flexible filing locations. Timely application and adherence to Tribunal procedures ensure a fair and swift resolution. Understanding these steps helps protect your rights and recover rightful compensation.
