Yes, compensation can be claimed for a hit-and-run accident in India. A hit-and-run accident generally refers to a case where the offending vehicle cannot be identified despite reasonable efforts by the police. Section 161 of the Motor Vehicles Act provides a specific compensation mechanism for such cases.
Under the Compensation to Victims of Hit and Run Motor Accidents Scheme, the prescribed compensation is ₹2 lakh in case of death and ₹50,000 in case of grievous injury. The amount is paid from the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund.
The victim or eligible family members should report the accident to the police and follow the prescribed claim procedure. Important documents may include the police report, medical records, proof of identity, and documents establishing the relationship of a claimant in case of death.
If the offending vehicle is later identified, the victim may have other legal remedies, including pursuing compensation through the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT), depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Therefore, even when the driver or vehicle responsible for the accident is unknown, the victim or their family may still be entitled to compensation under the hit-and-run compensation scheme.
[3]: https://morth.nic.in/sites/default/files/Annual-Report-FY-2022-23-MVL.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com "ANNUAL REPORT
