14 years after pelvis of 12-year-old boy from Bhiwandi crushed in road mishap, Motor Accident Claims Tribunal in Thane grants Rs 42 lakh compensation | Mumbai News
Thane: Fourteen years after a 12-year-old boy from Bhiwandi, who was riding pillion with his father, sustained pelvic disability after a trailer hit their motorcycle, the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Thane awarded him nearly Rs 42 lakh as compensation.The tribunal, presided over by member RV Mohite, held the trailer owner and the vehicle insurer jointly liable for the compensation to the claimant, who is now 26 years old.The accident took place on May 8, 2011, on Wada-Bhiwandi road. The motorcyclist was dragged 30ft before he died on the spot, while the trailer’s wheel crushed the 12-year-old’s lower body. He suffered a complete perineal tear, multiple pelvic bone fractures, and a ruptured urethra. His road to recovery was long and painful, requiring treatment at multiple medical facilities in Bhiwandi, a hospital in Thane, and a urology centre. Medical intervention included a complex uroplasty operation, but due to permanent damage to his urethra, he has to use a catheter for life. This disability has resulted in frequent infections, pain, and, according to the MACT records, even impacted his marriage prospects.In the MACT, the claimant was represented by advocate RS Chahal, while the trailer owner chose to remain ex parte, failing to file any written statement in defence. Insurance Company Ltd contested the claim by disputing the claimant’s age at the time of the accident and questioning the medical expenses. The insurer also argued that the accident was caused due to the motorcyclist’s negligence. However, after examining all evidence and medical records, the tribunal found merit in the compensation claim and awarded Rs 41.7 lakh.
