The Punjab and Haryana High Court has significantly enhanced the compensation awarded to a 34-year-old woman who lost her leg in a road accident, raising the amount to ₹39,50,599 from the earlier ₹26,10,945. The judgment, delivered on 24 December 2025 by Justice Harkesh Manuja, comes as a relief for the victim, Pinki, who had challenged the original award passed by the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT).
Background of the Case
The accident occurred on 08 December 2016 when Pinki was hit due to the alleged rash and negligent driving of the respondent, Harpreet Singh. The incident resulted in severe injuries, including the amputation of her left leg above the thigh and additional fractures. She remained hospitalized for nearly a month and faced long-term disability that affected her ability to earn and perform daily work.
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The MACT had earlier assessed her earning capacity at ₹6,000 per month and granted compensation accordingly. Both Pinki and the insurance company filed appeals one seeking enhancement and the other claiming the award was excessive.
Court Observations
The High Court disagreed with the Tribunal’s assessment and held that the victim’s financial and physical loss was undervalued. The Court reassessed her monthly income at ₹10,000, acknowledging her tailoring work and contribution as a homemaker.
“The assessment of ₹6,000 per month appears to be on the lower side considering the nature of work and responsibilities discharged,” the Court noted.
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The Court also recognised the lifelong cost of prosthetics, surgery, and medical rehabilitation. It noted expert testimony showing that an artificial limb alone cost over ₹7 lakh, with annual maintenance expenses.
Revised Compensation Breakdown
| Head of Compensation | Amount |
|---|---|
| Loss of Income & Future Earnings | ₹19,50,599 |
| Medical & Future Prosthetic Expenses | ₹16,00,000 |
| Special Diet, Care & Transport | ₹1,00,000 |
| Pain & Suffering | ₹3,00,000 |
| Total Enhanced Compensation | ₹39,50,599 |
The Court also ordered 9% annual interest from the date of the original claim, with a higher rate of 12% if delayed beyond three months.
Final Decision
Dismissing the insurer’s appeal and allowing Pinki’s plea for enhancement, the Court concluded:
“The claimant is entitled to a higher amount in view of permanent disability, medical requirements, and loss of earnings.”
The matter ended with modification of the Tribunal’s order, increasing the compensation to ₹39,50,599. The Court made no further observations beyond the award.
Case Title:- Pinki vs Harpreet Singh & Ors
Case Numbers:
- FAO No. 4560 of 2018 (O&M)
- FAO No. 2853 of 2018 (O&M)
Judgment Pronounced On: 24 December 2025
