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 Bombay High Court urged citizens to adopt better civic sense and follow traffic rules, citing developed nations. While enhancing compensation in a fatal accident case, the court stressed responsible road behavior to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
The Supreme Court has referred to a larger bench the question of whether insurance companies must pay no-fault compensation under Section 163A of the MV Act for the vehicle owner’s death, even without a third-party claim. The case arose from a minor’s plea after losing her parents in a solo accident.
