In Brief
Two appeals from motor accident deaths arising from the same accident on 29.10.2013 when two motorcycle riders were struck by a truck. The High Court had drastically reduced compensation awarded by the Motor Accident Tribunal, rejecting salary certificates and pay slips because the issuing officer was not examined, instead using statutory minimum wages. The Supreme Court held that in motor accident cases, strict rules of evidence do not apply; documentary evidence corroborated by witness testimony is conclusive and cannot be rejected merely for want of the issuing officer's examination. Income was restored at Rs.11,225/month. The Court also revised future prospects (30%-50% based on age), increased loss of consortium to Rs.44,000 per dependent, and raised interest to 9% per annum. Both appeals were allowed.", <parameter name="disposition">allowed
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