In Brief
A 21-year-old pillion rider suffered severe permanent disability (69%) in a motor accident, including cognitive impairment and loss of physical function, rendering him unable to work. The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal and High Court awarded compensation, but the claimant appealed for enhancement. The Supreme Court held that compensation must be based on actual impact on earning capacity, not merely proportionate to disability percentage. Since the claimant was totally incapacitated, his loss of earnings should be 100%, not 69%. The Court also enhanced awards for attendant expenses and medical costs, emphasizing that just compensation must restore dignity and reflect realistic assessment of the victim's functional needs.
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