Let's dive into a recent court decision involving a bus accident in Telangana. The case revolves around a student named Miss G. Bhargavi, who was injured in an accident involving a Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) bus. Here's what happened and how the court ruled.
On September 19, 2016, Miss G. Bhargavi was involved in a serious accident. She got off a bus at Moosarambagh and was hit by another RTC bus, driven recklessly, according to her claim. The accident left her with severe injuries, including head trauma and multiple fractures. She was immediately taken to Yashoda Hospital for treatment.
"The person who filed the case sustained severe injuries due to the careless and reckless driving of the RTC Bus."
Miss Bhargavi filed a claim seeking Rs. 40,00,000 as compensation for her medical expenses and suffering. The people she was claiming against, including the TSRTC, denied any carelessness on their part, arguing that the accident was solely her fault.
The group that decides on accident claims initially awarded Miss Bhargavi Rs. 20,31,644 as compensation. They considered her medical expenses, pain, and suffering, among other factors. However, both the TSRTC and Miss Bhargavi were not satisfied and appealed the decision.
TSRTC's Argument: They argued that the compensation was too high and questioned the validity of the disability certificate. They also wanted the interest rate on the compensation reduced from 9% to 7.5%.
Miss Bhargavi's Argument: She felt the compensation was too low, given her 60% disability and the impact on her future, including marriage prospects and potential earnings.
Justice Tirumala Devi Eada heard the appeals and made a decision. The court upheld the compensation amount but agreed with TSRTC to reduce the interest rate from 9% to 7.5%, aligning with previous similar cases.
"The 9% rate of interest granted by the Tribunal is reduced to that of 7.5%."
The TSRTC has been directed to deposit the compensation with the adjusted interest rate. Miss Bhargavi can withdraw the amount once it's deposited. This case highlights the complexities involved in determining fair compensation in accident cases.
