What Is an Accident Injury Claim? – A Life-Saving Right

No one knows what awaits at the next turn. A moment’s negligence can change a life—sometimes leading to serious injury, sometimes taking away a loved one. In these moments, the law not only seeks justice for the victim but also aims at restoration through compensation.

Under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, any person injured in a road accident—or the legal heirs in case of death—can claim compensation. This is commonly called a Motor Accident Claim (MACT Claim).

Which Laws Apply?

Section 166 – Fault-Based Claim

If the accident occurred due to someone’s negligence, you can file under Section 166. The victim (or heirs) must prove fault/negligence of the opposite party.

Section 163-A – No-Fault Claim

When you need immediate relief and do not wish to litigate fault, Section 163-A allows compensation on a structured formula basis, without proving negligence.

Section 140 – Interim Compensation

For quick initial relief: ₹50,000 (death) or ₹25,000 (injury) as interim compensation.

Relevant IPC Sections (e.g., 279, 337, 338, 304-A)

In addition to the claim, a criminal case may lie against a rash/negligent driver causing injury or death.

MACT Claim Process – Step by Step

1. Register the FIR
   File an FIR with the local police immediately. This becomes the foundation of your case.

2. Medical Treatment & Records
   Get prompt treatment. Preserve all medical records, bills, prescriptions, and discharge summaries.

3. Notify the Insurance Company
   Send notice to the insurer of the offending vehicle. This initiates the insurer’s process.

4. File the Petition before MACT
   Submit a well-drafted petition to the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal with all supporting documents.

5. Evidence & Testimony
   Prove injuries, income, dependents, cost of treatment, disability, etc., through documents and witnesses.

6. Award & Disbursement
   Based on facts and evidence, the Tribunal decides the compensation amount and directs the insurer/owner to pay.

Documents Required

• Victim’s ID proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.)

• FIR and charge-sheet copies

• Medical records, bills, prescriptions, discharge summary

• Insurance certificate of the vehicle

• Registration Certificate (RC) of the vehicle

• Witness details, photos/videos of the accident site

• In death cases: Death certificate, post-mortem report, proof of dependents

How Is Compensation Calculated?

There is no fixed amount; it depends on multiple factors:

• Age and monthly income of the victim

• Severity and nature of injuries (temporary vs. permanent disability)

• Number of dependents (in death cases)

• Medical expenses and future treatment

• Loss of income / loss of future earning capacity

• Pain & suffering and loss of amenities/quality of life

Example: If a 30-year-old earning ₹15,000/month dies in an accident, the dependents may receive several lakhs in compensation (calculated using the multiplier method, plus conventional heads as applicable).

Note: Actual compensation varies by facts, evidence, disability assessment, and Tribunal findings.

LSO Legal’s Role – Your Legal Support

LSO Legal understands the emotional and financial strain after an accident and fights for your rightful compensation with diligence and care.

What we do:

• Drafting & filing your MACT case and robust representation before the Tribunal

• Document preparation & evidence collection (FIR, medical, witnesses, bills)

• Negotiation/Settlement with the insurance company where appropriate

• Coordination with hospitals and police for records

• Guidance and support to the victim’s family throughout the process

Our goal is not just to win a case—but to help a family rebuild with timely, fair compensation.

Is Compensation Guaranteed?

No. Every case is unique. However, when you file correctly, maintain complete documentation, and your counsel presents the case well, the chances of a favorable award increase significantly.

Conclusion – Seek Justice, Not Just Endure Pain

A road accident affects the whole family—hospital bills, missed work, emotional trauma. In such times, compensation is not charity; it is a right.

LSO Legal treats your fight as our own. From paperwork to courtroom, we stand by you so you never feel alone.

Get Help Now

• Website: https://lsolegal.com

• Helpline: 0755-4222969

For death claims, disability benefits, medical expenses, income loss, or insurance disputes—find your solution with LSO Legal.

Apply Now – Start your MACT claim today.