In an effort to enhance road safety and ensure immediate medical care for accident victims, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) under Union Minister Nitin Gadkari is prioritising the implementation of cashless treatment for road mishap victims. This initiative aligns with the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to mitigate road accident fatalities and injuries, while also stressing the importance of third-party vehicle insurance.
In March, just prior to the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections, MoRTH launched a pilot project in Chandigarh, enabling accident victims to receive free treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh per person per accident for a period of seven days from the date of the incident. The positive outcomes of this pilot have prompted the Ministry to consider expanding the scheme nationwide. On Tuesday, the Ministry issued a reminder to all road users to ensure they possess valid third-party insurance.
According to Section 146 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, it is mandatory for all motor vehicles on Indian roads to have an insurance policy covering third-party risks. The Ministry reiterated that having third-party insurance is not only a legal requirement but also a critical aspect of responsible road usage, as it provides necessary financial support to victims in the event of accidents or damages.
The Ministry highlighted the legal repercussions for non-compliance. Offenders driving or allowing an uninsured vehicle to be driven without valid third-party insurance are subject to penalties under Section 196 of the Motor Vehicles Act. First-time offenders face up to three months of imprisonment, a fine of Rs 2,000, or both. For subsequent offences, the penalties increase to imprisonment for up to three months, a fine of Rs 4,000, or both. Enforcement officials are tasked with imposing these penalties on vehicles found to be operating without valid insurance.
MoRTH’s initiatives, including the pilot project for cashless treatment, are part of a broader strategy to reduce road accidents and fatalities. The pilot programme in Chandigarh aims to create an ecosystem for providing timely medical care to road accident victims, especially during the critical “golden hour” immediately following an accident. The National Health Authority will oversee the implementation of this programme, coordinating efforts with police, hospitals, and the State Health Agency.
According to the Ministry’s latest report, “Road Accidents in India 2022,” there were 4.61 lakh reported road accidents in 2022, resulting in 1.68 lakh deaths and 4.43 lakh injuries. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for effective measures such as cashless treatment and strict enforcement of third-party insurance compliance.
In conclusion, Gadkari’s focus on cashless treatment for accident victims and stringent insurance regulations represents a significant step towards enhancing road safety and reducing the burden of road accidents on victims and their families. As MoRTH continues to push for these reforms, the emphasis remains on creating a safer and more responsible driving environment across India.
