NATIONAL INSURANCE CO LTD Vs. BRAMARANBIKE

JUDGEMENT

(1.) THE deceased in M. V. C. No. 162 of 1999 was traveling in the tractor sitting on the mudguard. On account of rash and negligent driving, the death occurred. Petitioners are the legal representatives of the deceased. Claims Tribunal has awarded a compensation of Rs. 3,68. 600 with interest at 9 per cent per annum from the date of petition till payment and directed the driver, owner and the insurer of the tractor to pay the compensation. The insurer is in appeal seeking avoidance of liability.

(2.) THE provisions of Regulation 28 in appendix 2 pertaining the Rules of the Road regulations, 1989, formulated under Motor vehicles Act, categorically declares that the driver when driving a tractor shall not carry or allow any person to be carried on the mudguard of a tractor. The effect of the regulation makes any person traveling in a tractor apart from the driver as illegal and would be an unauthorised passenger. The policy of insurance issued does not cover the risk of an inmate of the tractor. The permitted seating capacity for the tractor is only that of a driver and no other person. In the instant case, the vehicle being only a tractor at the time of accident, there is no legal possibility of coverage of the risk of an inmate of a tractor. In that view of the matter, the award passed by the Tribunal against the insurer is illegal.

(3.) ACCORDINGLY, the appeal is allowed. The amount deposited by appellant to be refunded to the appellant. Compensation awarded shall be paid by the owner and driver.