Justice Midha Advocates Separate Fund for Non-Insured Vehicle Accident Victims

Justice J R Midha proposed a separate fund to compensate accident victims involving non-insured vehicles. The fund could be financed by a small cess on fuel prices or vehicle registration. More than 50% of vehicles in India lack insurance. The event also highlighted concerns about poor road conditions and drunk driving accidents.

Justice J R Midha, appointed as amicus curiae by the Supreme Court for motor accident compensation claims, proposed a separate fund dedicated to compensating victims of accidents involving non-insured vehicles.

Addressing an event by the International Road Federation (IRF), Midha noted that over 50% of vehicles in India are not insured. He suggested that the fund could be financed by a small cess added to fuel prices or vehicle registration fees. He also raised concerns over the deplorable road conditions and the lack of proper care for drivers, who often have to drive extended hours without adequate rest or sleep.

Additionally, Midha touched upon the rising cases of drunk driving, advocating that restaurants serve liquor only to patrons who have a designated driver or utilize a driver provided by the establishment. This practice, he noted, had been adopted by some restaurants in Mumbai.

IRF President (Emeritus) K K Kapila also emphasized the critical issue of road accidents and fatalities in India, calling for coordinated efforts among various governance levels to enhance road safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)