The Supreme Court has awarded an additional ₹36.20 lakh to a man who lost his right leg in a road accident, holding that compensation must include the cost of a prosthetic limb and its future maintenance.
The Court said an artificial limb is not a luxury but an essential aid that helps an amputee regain dignity, mobility and confidence.
Background of the Case
The case arose from an accident on May 2, 2007, when Prahlad Sahai was travelling on a motorcycle in Jaipur. A bus belonging to Haryana Roadways allegedly hit the motorcycle from behind, causing severe injuries. His right leg was later amputated below the knee.
The Motor Accident Claims Tribunal had awarded ₹8.73 lakh, which was later enhanced by the Rajasthan High Court to ₹13.02 lakh. Dissatisfied, the claimant approached the Supreme Court seeking further compensation.
A Bench of Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K.V. Viswanathan observed that a prosthetic limb is deeply personal and vital for an amputee’s day-to-day life.
“The device, apart from empowering them, is integral to their life, giving them confidence and self-belief,” the judgment noted.
The Court also found that the claimant, who worked as a driver, had effectively suffered 100% functional disability, as he could no longer drive heavy vehicles after the amputation.
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The Supreme Court reassessed the claimant’s monthly income at ₹6,000 and recalculated loss of future earnings. It also separately awarded compensation for the prosthetic limb and future maintenance.
The Court granted:
- ₹8,02,368 extra under loss of future income
- ₹18,000 under loss of income during treatment
- ₹2 lakh towards litigation costs
- ₹26 lakh for prosthetic limb and maintenance expenses
Allowing the appeal, the Supreme Court directed the insurance company to pay ₹36,20,350 (rounded off) over and above the amount already awarded by the High Court.
The Court ordered that the payment be made within four weeks, failing which it will carry 9% annual interest.
Case Details
Case Title: Prahlad Sahai v. Haryana Roadways & Anr.
Case Number: Civil Appeal No. 4642 of 2026 (@ SLP (C) No. 8756 of 2024)
Judges: Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice K.V. Viswanathan
Decision Date: 21 April 2026
