Traffic accidents are an unfortunate reality in Delhi due to heavy congestion, high vehicle density, and rapid urban movement. To address road safety and provide justice to victims, traffic accident laws in Delhi are governed primarily by the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and rules framed by the Delhi Traffic Police.
Under the Motor Vehicles Act, anyone injured in a road accident has the legal right to claim compensation. Victims can file a claim before the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT) for damages related to medical expenses, loss of income, disability, or death. Even in cases where fault is disputed, provisions like no-fault liability allow victims to receive interim relief quickly.
The Indian Penal Code applies when negligence or rash driving is involved. Sections such as IPC 279 (rash driving), IPC 337 and 338 (causing hurt or grievous hurt), and IPC 304A (causing death by negligence) are commonly used in traffic accident cases. These laws ensure that offenders face criminal consequences in addition to civil liability.
Delhi traffic law also makes it mandatory for drivers to possess valid documents, including a driving licence, vehicle registration, insurance, and pollution certificate. Failure to comply can lead to fines, licence suspension, or imprisonment in serious cases. Hit-and-run incidents are treated strictly, and the law provides compensation schemes for victims when the offender cannot be traced.
Reporting an accident promptly to the police is crucial, as the First Information Report (FIR) forms the basis for legal proceedings and insurance claims. Victims are also entitled to cashless treatment under government-approved schemes in selected hospitals.
Overall, traffic accident law in Delhi aims to promote road safety, ensure accountability, and provide timely compensation and justice to accident victims and their families.
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