Thane MACT Awards ₹41 Lakh Compensation to Family of Road Accident Victim

₹40.32 Lakh Granted for Loss of Dependency and Future Prospects; Additional ₹5.70 Lakh for Deceased Son​

Thane, May 18 – The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Thane has awarded a compensation of ₹41 lakh to the family of a man who lost his life in a tragic road accident in 2020. The tribunal also granted ₹5.70 lakh for the death of his son, who died in the same incident.

The accident occurred on January 11, 2020, when Arun Martand alias Maruti Bhangrath, a 34-year-old milk seller and driver, was killed after a speeding multi-utility vehicle (MUV) rammed into his motorcycle. His son Akshay, who was also riding with him, died on the spot.

The deceased’s family had approached the tribunal seeking ₹47.55 lakh in compensation, stating that Bhangrath was the sole breadwinner and had an income of approximately ₹25,000 per month.

In its order dated May 8, details of which became public on Saturday, MACT member SN Shah ruled in favor of the family. The tribunal awarded:

• ₹40.32 lakh for loss of dependency and future prospects
• ₹70,000 towards loss of estate, funeral expenses, and filial consortium
• ₹5.70 lakh for the death of son Akshay

The insurance company tried to contest the claim, arguing that the policy for the offending vehicle had been canceled after the owner's cheque for the premium was dishonored. However, the tribunal cited a Supreme Court ruling, emphasizing that cancellation of a policy due to a dishonored cheque does not affect the rights of third-party claimants.

This ruling reaffirms the judiciary’s commitment to protecting the rights of accident victims and their families, ensuring that insurance disputes do not hinder rightful compensation.