The Supreme Court held that injuries caused by a falling tree branch on a stationary autorickshaw do not automatically qualify as a motor vehicle accident. However, invoking Article 142, the Court enhanced compensation for the claimant, emphasizing that a proximate connection between the vehicle and accident is necessary.
The Supreme Court held that loss of a wife’s domestic care constitutes an independent head of compensation in motor accident claims. Granting enhanced compensation to a widower, the Court recognised homemakers’ invaluable contribution and observed that they should be regarded as “nation-builders” in society.
The Allahabad High Court ruled an unborn child beyond five months’ gestation is a “person” under law, allowing separate compensation. Justice Prashant Kumar issued the order in a Railway Claims Tribunal appeal.
The Bombay High Court denied railway accident compensation to an intoxicated passenger who admitted consuming four large pegs of alcohol before being hit while standing dangerously close to the platform edge. The Court said intoxication shows negligence, barring compensation.
