In Brief
In a 1997 motor accident, the claimant, a Merchant Navy employee earning USD 1,000 monthly, suffered amputation of his right hand below the elbow, resulting in 70% disability. The Motor Accident Tribunal awarded Rs. 6,68,000; the High Court enhanced it to Rs. 14,82,000. The claimant appealed, arguing inadequate compensation. The Supreme Court partly allowed the appeal, holding that the High Court's assessment of future economic loss was insufficient and undervalued pain and suffering. The Court revised total compensation to Rs. 62,35,000 with 7.5% annual interest, requiring payment within eight weeks, as the claimant could no longer work in Merchant Navy due to the permanent disability.
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