THANE (Monday, March 30, 2026) — The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) in Thane has awarded a compensation of ₹64.75 lakh to the family of a 42-year-old businessman from Pune who died in a road accident in 2022. The tribunal rejected the insurance company’s claims of “contributory negligence,” holding the offending motorcyclist entirely responsible for the fatal collision.
The Incident: A Fatal Road Crossing
The victim, identified as Yuvraj Bhagawan Jagtap, operated a successful automobile servicing business in Pune.
- Date of Accident: November 24, 2022.
- Location: Near Chikhali in Pune district.
- The Crash: Jagtap was carefully crossing the road when a speeding motorcycle struck him with immense force.
- Fatal Injuries: He sustained severe head trauma and was hospitalized for nearly three weeks. Despite intensive medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries on December 13, 2022.
Judicial Findings and Liability
In an order passed on March 25, 2026, MACT member R.V. Mohite scrutinized the police investigation and eyewitness accounts.
| Finding | Details |
| Fault | The motorcyclist was found to be driving at “high and excessive speed” without regard for traffic conditions. |
| Victim Conduct | The tribunal noted Jagtap was “walking on the road with proper care and caution,” dismissing the insurer’s claim that he was negligent. |
| Liability | The motorcycle owner and the Thane-based insurance company were ordered to pay the compensation jointly and severally. |
| Ex Parte Order | As the motorcycle owner failed to appear before the tribunal, the matter was decided ex parte against him. |
Compensation Breakdown
While the family had initially calculated damages at over ₹2.19 crore, they had restricted their formal claim to just ₹1 lakh due to a severe financial crunch at the time of filing. However, the tribunal applied the principle of “just compensation” to award the higher amount.
- Principal Amount: ₹64,75,000.
- Interest: 9% per annum from the date the petition was filed until the realization of the amount.
- Income Assessment: The tribunal assessed Jagtap’s notional income at ₹35,000 per month.
- Financial Security: A significant portion of the award is to be placed in fixed deposits in the names of the victim’s wife and two children to ensure their long-term security.
Sources
- Press Trust of India (PTI): “Tribunal awards Rs 64.7 lakh compensation for Pune businessman’s death after accident” (March 30, 2026).
- Law Trend: “Thane MACT Awards ₹64.75 Lakh Compensation to Family of Pune Businessman” (March 30, 2026).
- Mid-Day: “Thane tribunal grants Rs 64.75 lakh to family of Pune man killed in 2022 accident” (March 30, 2026).
- Rediff News: “Pune businessman’s family gets Rs 64.7 lakh compensation” (March 30, 2026).