What compensation can I claim for a road accident injury?

If you are injured in a road accident due to another's negligence, you can claim compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, and disability before the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal. The claim is usually made against the at-fault driver and their insurer.

Key points

• Compensation can cover medical costs, loss of earnings, future treatment, and pain and suffering.
• In cases of permanent disability, higher compensation is awarded for loss of earning capacity.
• The claim is filed before the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal (MACT).
• Third-party insurance of the at-fault vehicle typically covers the compensation.
• Preserve medical records, bills, and income proof to support your claim.

Relevant law

Compensation claims are governed by the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (as amended in 2019), particularly Sections 166 and 168 for claims before the MACT. The Act also provides for interim and structured compensation, and rash driving may attract Section 281 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

What you can do

• Preserve all medical records, bills, and proof of income and expenses.
• Obtain a copy of the FIR and accident details.
• File a compensation claim before the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal, Mangaluru.
• Consult a motor accident lawyer in Mangaluru to maximise your compensation.