In a tragic twist of fate, Rani @ Raj Kumari lost her life in a car accident. Her family sought justice and compensation, leading to a significant court battle. Here's how the case unfolded.
On the evening of September 2, 2009, Rani @ Raj Kumari was riding her motorcycle home to Kot from Jhansi when disaster struck. As she approached a bridge near the village of Bhojla, a Jeep Gypsy, driven recklessly, collided with her bike. The accident left Rani @ Raj Kumari with severe injuries to her head and legs.
"The vehicle was said to be driven in a careless and irresponsible way."
After the accident, Rani @ Raj Kumari was rushed to the Medical College in Jhansi and later transferred to Gwalior Hospital. Despite the medical efforts, she succumbed to her injuries on September 10, 2009, just eight days after the accident.
At 33, Rani @ Raj Kumari was a hardworking woman employed at Rajaram Stone Crusher, earning Rs. 6,000 per month. Additionally, she managed family farmland, contributing to an income of Rs. 10,000 monthly. Her family, including her widow, three daughters, a son, and her parents, depended on her.
Following Rani @ Raj Kumari's death, her family filed a claim for Rs. 26,10,000 under the Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal initially awarded them Rs. 7,28,500 with 6% interest. However, the family believed this was insufficient.
The Allahabad High Court reviewed the case and increased the compensation to Rs. 9,20,500 with 7% interest. They considered future possibilities and adjusted the multiplier for Rani @ Raj Kumari's age, but the family sought further enhancement.
The case reached the Supreme Court, where Justice N.V. Anjaria delivered the final judgment. The court recognized the need for fair compensation, considering Rani @ Raj Kumari's potential future earnings and the family's loss.
"The total compensation payable to the claimants would be Rs. 20,55,320."
The court ordered the insurance company to pay the additional compensation within eight weeks. The amount was to be shared among the widow, children, and parents, ensuring fair distribution.
The Supreme Court concluded that the family of Rani @ Raj Kumari should receive a total of Rs. 20,55,320 as compensation. This amount was determined by considering her potential future earnings and the impact of her loss on her family. The decision provided financial relief and acknowledged the importance of fair compensation for accident victims and their families.
For further details, refer to the judgment delivered on December 5, 2025, by Justice N.V. Anjaria in New Delhi.
