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Pune MACT grants Rs 1.2 cr to tax consultant’s family, says no helmet negligence
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 20 Aug 2026, 05:38 AM
👁 8
The Pune Motor Accident Claims Tribunal awarded Rs 1.2 crore to the family of a tax consultant, ruling that the victim’s failure to wear a helmet did not amount to contributory negligence.
The Pune Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) has ordered a compensation of Rs 1.2 crore to be paid to the family of tax consultant identified only as K. The tribunal examined the accident report and medical evidence and concluded that the victim’s decision not to wear a helmet did not constitute contributory negligence under Indian motor‑vehicle law.
In its written order, the MACT noted that while helmet use is mandatory for two‑wheeler riders, the failure to do so does not automatically reduce the liability of the other party responsible for the crash. Accordingly, the full quantum of damages was awarded to the deceased’s dependents.
The decision underscores the tribunal’s approach of separating statutory safety violations from the assessment of fault in fatal accidents. It also provides a significant financial relief to K’s family, who had filed the claim seeking compensation for loss of earnings and emotional distress.
Legal experts say the ruling may influence future cases where victims’ non‑compliance with safety norms is cited as a mitigating factor. The award is expected to be disbursed after the usual procedural formalities are completed.
In its written order, the MACT noted that while helmet use is mandatory for two‑wheeler riders, the failure to do so does not automatically reduce the liability of the other party responsible for the crash. Accordingly, the full quantum of damages was awarded to the deceased’s dependents.
The decision underscores the tribunal’s approach of separating statutory safety violations from the assessment of fault in fatal accidents. It also provides a significant financial relief to K’s family, who had filed the claim seeking compensation for loss of earnings and emotional distress.
Legal experts say the ruling may influence future cases where victims’ non‑compliance with safety norms is cited as a mitigating factor. The award is expected to be disbursed after the usual procedural formalities are completed.