Here's a breakdown of a recent court decision involving a lorry accident in Chennai. The court has decided to increase the compensation for the injured driver, V. Karunamoorthy, after a long legal battle.
On May 22, 2020, V. Karunamoorthy was driving a lorry on GNT Road, Sholavaram, Tiruvallur District, when a container lorry, driven recklessly, crashed into him. The driver of the container lorry was accused of driving in a zigzag manner and turning without signaling, leading to the crash.
Karunamoorthy suffered serious injuries, including broken bones in both legs. He was treated at F.O.R. Ortho and Neuro Hospital in Chennai. Initially, the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal awarded him Rs.57,03,000 as compensation.
V. Karunamoorthy's Appeal: Karunamoorthy wanted more compensation, saying his monthly income was underestimated. He initially said he earned Rs.20,000 as a lorry driver but later claimed Rs.30,000.
Insurance Company's Appeal: The insurance company argued that the accident was partly Karunamoorthy's fault and questioned the validity of some medical bills. They wanted to lower the compensation.
The court, with Justice N. Sathish Kumar and Justice R. Sakthivel, looked at the evidence and testimonies:
Income Assessment: The court found inconsistencies in Karunamoorthy's income claims but decided on an assumed income of Rs.18,000 per month, considering his job as a skilled driver.
Medical Bills: All medical expenses were considered valid, despite the insurance company's objections.
Disability and Future Prospects: The court recognized a 100% functional disability due to the injuries, affecting Karunamoorthy's ability to work and his chances of getting married.
On January 21, 2026, the court increased the compensation to Rs.65,74,015, citing the seriousness of injuries and loss of future income. The insurance company was told to pay the revised amount within eight weeks.
The court concluded that Karunamoorthy is entitled to a modified compensation of Rs.65,74,015, ensuring justice for him.
