25 Years for Justice: Rs 3.25 Crore Compensation Awarded in a Hit-and-Run Case

25 Years for Justice: Rs 3.25 Crore Compensation Awarded in a Hit-and-Run Case

?? Imagine fighting for 25 years just to get what’s rightfully yours. This is the story of a Chandigarh man who, after a long legal battle, finally won Rs 3.25 crore in compensation for a hit-and-run accident that left him with 83% permanent disability.

This case isn’t just about legal delays—it’s about resilience, the flaws in our legal system, and why proper insurance coverage matters. Let’s break it down.

?? The Accident That Changed Everything

?? Date: June 18, 2000

?? Victim: A 16-year-old boy riding a bicycle

?? Incident: A speeding truck, driving on the wrong side, crashed into him and his friend.

?? Injuries: Severe, requiring multiple surgeries.

While his friend recovered, this young boy was left with lifelong disabilities. When he regained enough strength, he decided to fight for justice.

?? The 25-Year Legal Battle

Step 1: Filing for Compensation

• The victim filed a claim in Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MCAT), Chandigarh.
• The truck owner and driver ignored the case—never attending hearings.
• The insurance company refused liability, arguing the truck driver had no valid driving license.

Verdict in 2004: MCAT awarded Rs 7.62 lakh + 9% interest.

Next Step (2005): The victim appealed in Punjab & Haryana High Court.

?? Step 2: Delays, Challenges & a Lost Court File

Over the next two decades, the case faced:

• Multiple failed settlement attempts at Lok Adalat.
• The court file was burned in an accident—it had to be reconstructed.
• Doctors from PGI Chandigarh re-examined the disability in 2022.
• ?? The High Court ordered a fresh report in January 2024. After countless hearings, delays, and frustration, justice was finally served.

The Final High Court Verdict (2025)

?? February 14, 2025 – The Punjab & Haryana High Court ruled that the victim deserved: Rs 1.31 crore in compensation, 7.5% annual interest over the years, Final amount: Rs 3.25 crore

The judge criticized the insurance company’s tactics to escape liability and ensured the victim received fair compensation under the Motor Vehicles Act.

Key Takeaways for Everyone

?? For Individuals: Accidents can change lives forever. Make sure you have the right insurance coverage to protect yourself and your family.

?? For Businesses & Fleet Owners: Always ensure your drivers have valid licenses—or you might face huge liabilities.

?? For Insurance Professionals: This case highlights why clients need proper coverage and legal awareness. If you're in insurance, educate customers about policy gaps and legal protection.

?? For Legal Experts: The legal system is slow, but persistence pays off. This case shows the importance of appealing unfair decisions and fighting for what’s right.

?? What Do You Think?

? Do you believe insurance companies should be held more accountable for delays like these?

? Have you ever faced a legal or insurance battle that took years to resolve?

Let’s discuss in the comments! ????

#Insurance #LegalJustice #HitAndRun #MotorVehiclesAct #PersonalFinance #InsuranceClaims