Supreme Court: Chennai Motorcyclist Awarded Rs. 21.75 Lakh for Disability Needs

Quick Summary: A man injured in a road accident in Chennai gets a big increase in payment from the court, thanks to Judge S.V.N. Bhatti.

The Accident and Initial Payment

On January 26, 2012, R. Logeshkumar was riding his motorcycle from Selaiyur to Medavakkam in Chennai when a jeep hit him at Kamarajapuram junction. The jeep, owned by P. Balasubramaniam, was driven carelessly, causing serious injuries to Logeshkumar. At first, the Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal decided he should get Rs. 3,98,017.

Asking for More Money

Logeshkumar thought the amount was too low and asked the Madras High Court for Rs. 15,00,000. He was 21 and worked as an accounts assistant, earning Rs. 9,000 per month. He said the accident left him unable to work because of his disability.

High Court's Increased Payment

On June 20, 2022, the Madras High Court raised the payment to Rs. 14,65,617. They understood his complete disability, setting his monthly income at Rs. 6,500 based on similar cases. The court also added Rs. 80,000 for future medical costs.

Supreme Court's Final Decision

Judge S.V.N. Bhatti looked at the case again. On December 5, 2025, the Supreme Court raised the payment to Rs. 21,75,681. The court considered his future needs and gave a lump sum of Rs. 3,00,000 for personal assistance, recognizing Logeshkumar's need for help.

Breakdown of the New Payment

• Transport to Hospital: Rs. 10,000
• Extra Nourishment: Rs. 15,000
• Damage to Clothing: Rs. 1,000
• Medical Costs: Rs. 60,617
• Loss of Comforts: Rs. 5,000
• Pain and Suffering: Rs. 30,000
• Loss in Marriage and Social Status: Rs. 10,000
• Caregiver Charges: Rs. 3,00,000
• Loss of Earnings due to Disability: Rs. 16,64,064
• Future Medical Costs: Rs. 80,000

Summary of Verdict

The Supreme Court decided to increase the payment to Rs. 21,75,681, including future assistance and medical costs, ensuring Logeshkumar has the financial support he needs.