Govt. increases Compensation for the Victims of Hit-and-Run Cases

As per the latest notification by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the compensation to the kin of hit-and-run victims has been increased by eight-fold to Rs 2 Lakh in case of death, from the current cap of Rs 25,000. Additionally, the solatium to the individual sustaining grievous in a hit-and-run case has also been increased to Rs 50,000 from the current Rs.12,000.

As per the notification of the Ministry, issued on 25^th February 2022, the scheme shall be called ‘Compensation to Victims of Hit and Run Motor Accidents Scheme’, 2022 and shall come into force with effect from April 1, 2022. 

The said notification establishes a ‘Standing Committee’ that shall look into the requests of such claims, consider the issues raised in the quarterly reports of the District Level Committee and provide guidance or directions, including on prevention of fraud in implementation of this scheme and extend advisory function to the government to make the implementation of the scheme efficient. Further, the District level Standing Committees under the Scheme shall be undertaking all functions connected with the implementation of this scheme at the District Level.

Under the scheme, the Ministry has also established a Detailed Accident Report (DAR) procedure for thorough investigations of the accidents, their reporting and timelines for various stakeholders to effectuate quick settlements of claims.

Through the scheme, the Ministry also envisages to set up a Motor Vehicles Accident Fund, which will be used for providing compensation in case of hit and run accidents and treatment for accident victims.