2025 Supreme(Raj) 1670
IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE FOR RAJASTHAN BENCH AT JAIPUR
Ashutosh Kumar, J.
Jakir Hussain Son of Shri Mohammad Hussain - Appellant
Versus
Shantilal Sansi Son of Shri Jagrup - Respondents
S.B. Civil Miscellaneous Appeal No. 674/2022
Decided On : 27-03-2025
Advocate Appeared:
For the Appellant : Mr. Bhanu Prakash Verma, Adv.
For the Respondent: Mr. Prakhar Agarwal, Adv., Mr. Virendra Agarwal, Adv.
Compensation for motor accident injuries must reflect both pecuniary and non-pecuniary losses, ensuring just restoration to pre-accident conditions.
Headnote:
(A) Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 - Sections 173 and 168 - Compensation for injuries in motor accidents - The court emphasized the need for just compensation, considering both pecuniary and non-pecuniary losses suffered by the claimant - The principle of restoring the aggrieved to their pre-accident position was reiterated. (Paras 12, 13, 15)
(B) Determination of compensation - The court ruled that compensation must reflect fair and equitable principles, and not merely be a bonanza. (Paras 12, 15)
Facts of the case:
The case involved a motor accident where the claimant sought compensation for injuries sustained. The court assessed the compensation based on established principles of just compensation.
Findings of Court:
The court determined that the claimant was entitled to a total compensation amounting to Rs. 60,000/- for various injuries sustained.
Issues: The main issues included the adequacy of compensation for both physical and non-pecuniary losses.
Ratio Decidendi: The court held that compensation must adequately restore the claimant to their pre-accident condition, emphasizing the importance of fair compensation principles.
Result: Compensation awarded.
ORDER :
Ashutosh Kumar, J.
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“12. In case of motor accidents leading to injuries and disablements, it is a well settled principle that a person must not only be compensated for his physical injury, but also for the non-pecuniary losses which he has suffered due to the injury. The claimant is entitled to be compensated for his inability to lead a full life, and enjoy those things and amenities which he would have enjoyed, but for the injuries."
"13. The purpose of compensation under the Motor Vehicles Act is to fully and adequately restore the aggrieved to the position prior to the accident. This Court in Yadava Kumar v. National Insurance Co. Ltd. explained “just compensation” in the following words:"
"15. It goes without saying that in matters of determination of compensation both the tribunal and the court are statutorily charged with a responsibility of fixing a “just compensation”. It is obviously true that determination of a just compensation cannot be equated to a bonanza. At the same time the concept of “just compensation” obviously suggests application of fair and equitable principles and a reasonable approach on the part of the tribunals and courts. This reasonableness on the part of the tribunal and court must be on a large pe