Jai Inder Singh and Another v. D.I.G (Prov.) and Another
Case brief
What is this about?
Punjab and Haryana High Court, FAO-3349-2025(O&M), decided 22.05.2025 by Anil Kshetarpal, J. Appeal by driver and owner of Skoda car CH-01-BS-1539 against MACT award of Rs.1,00,000/- for damage to bus PB-08-BC-9522 dismissed. Vicarious liability of owner as principal under Section 166 Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 (civil liability distinct from criminal prosecution); sole testimony of bus driver held reliable, corroboration by independent witness not necessary in every case; driver, owner and Insurance Company jointly and severally liable; insurer not absolved; pending miscellaneous applications disposed of.
What did the court decide?
The claim petition under Section 166 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 provides for civil liability; the owner of the vehicle, being the principal, is vicariously liable for the errors committed by his driver/servant/agent/representative/employee, and learned counsel failed to distinguish between civil liability and the criminal case.