In Brief
This reference case consolidated multiple appeals on motor accident compensation. The Supreme Court clarified the methodology for calculating damages in fatal accident claims under Sections 163-A and 166 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The Court approved the multiplier table from Sarla Verma but extended the standardization principle of future prospects to self-employed and fixed-salary workers. For permanent employees: 50% addition if below 40 years, 30% for 40–50 years, 15% for 50–60 years. For self-employed: 40% below 40 years, 25% for 40–50 years, 10% for 50–60 years. The Court also fixed conventional damages (loss of consortium Rs. 40,000; funeral expenses and loss of estate Rs. 15,000 each) to achieve uniformity.
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