Not even interim judgment possible: Aadhaar, PAN, bank documents mandatory for motor vehicle accident compensation

KOCHI: Those approaching the Accident Claims Tribunal for compensation for motor vehicle accidents must submit Aadhaar, PAN, email details and bank account details. The Supreme Court order has taken effect in Kerala also. The High Court order has also clarified the procedures to be followed by the courts and the parties before and after granting compensation. These are applicable to all those injured in the accident, the heirs of the deceased, the owners of the damaged property and the parties. This is in addition to the documents as per the Kerala Motor Vehicle Rules.

The Tribunal shall fix a time schedule if these details are not furnished at the time of filing. The Legal Aid Authority shall assist those who do not have such documents in obtaining them. In cases where the documents are not furnished, no interim relief or order shall be made till they are furnished. Notices shall not be issued from the Tribunal office.

MACT courts will summon the complainants before the trial or interim order. Bank account records and bank certificate/cancelled cheque leaf should be submitted then. Any change in account number or email address should also be informed. Joint accounts with non-family members will not be accepted. The instructions are also applicable to cases decided in Lok Adalats.

• If the applicant is a minor, the account should be opened in the name of the guardian
• If the compensation is being received by a third party, the amount should be transferred only after confirming the right
• If the dependent dies before receiving the amount, the documents of the successors should be checked and further action should be taken
• If no one comes to receive the compensation, the tribunal should report this to the High Court Registry

The procedures should be publicized on the MACT websites, insurance and transport company websites, etc.

MACT cases in India

Pending: 10,46,000

Total claims: Rs. 80,450 crore

In Kerala

(Vehicle accidents, death, injury)

2024: 48834, 3880, 54796

2025 (till July): 28724, 2017, 32569