MUMBAI: A motor accident claims tribunal (MACT) has ordered the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to pay Rs 55 lakh in compensation to the family of a biker who was killed by a state transport bus in March 2015.
The accident had occurred around 4.15pm on the Mankhurd railway bridge, where the deceased — Santosh Salve (38) — was hit and he sustained serious injuries to his head, according to the application filed by his family.
Police reached the spot and Salve was shifted to the Rajawadi Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries the same day.
The MSRTC had argued that the victim was solely negligent as he was driving on the wrong side of the bus.
It was further alleged that another speeding vehicle had dashed against the motorcycle.
The tribunal relied on the FIR and the spot panchnama and concluded that the bus driver was rash and negligent.
It also stated that the MSRTC had failed to show that Salve was responsible for any contributory negligence.
While deciding the compensation amount, the tribunal considered Salve's salary and the future prospects of the victim, after taking into account his dependents.
It also added his loss suffered by the family in his absence and funeral expenses.
Salve worked at the State Guards Board, earning a monthly salary of Rs 17,500.
The victim was survived by his wife, two sons and elderly parents.
The tribunal said that all the family members would get an equal share of the compensation.