The High Civil Court in Manama recently ruled in favor of a motorcycle rider who was involved in a traffic accident caused by a car driver. The court awarded the motorcyclist 6,000 Bahraini dinars in compensation due to a 15% permanent disability resulting from the accident. Both the insurance company of the driver and the driver himself were held responsible for the accident, with the court ordering them to pay the compensation along with court costs, legal fees, and expert fees.
The plaintiff’s lawyer, Zainab Madan, highlighted that her client sustained various injuries in the accident and was assessed to have a 15% permanent disability by the medical board. The driver of the car was found guilty in a criminal court in relation to the accident. Under Decree-Law No. 3 of 1987 concerning compulsory insurance for civil liability from vehicle accidents, the insurance company of the driver was deemed liable for the damages caused by the accident.
Article 12 of the same law mentions that insurance policies should cover civil liability for bodily and material damage resulting from vehicle accidents in Bahrain. This means that the insurance company is obligated to pay compensation for injuries sustained by individuals involved in accidents caused by their insured clients. The court, therefore, held both the driver and the insurance company accountable and ordered them to jointly pay the plaintiff compensation and other related fees.
In addition to the compensation of 6,000 dinars, the court also mandated that the defendants pay for court costs, legal fees amounting to 100 dinars, and expert fees totaling 90 dinars. This ruling sets a precedent for similar cases where victims of accidents caused by insured individuals can seek compensation from both the driver and their insurance company. Legal experts hope that such decisions will serve as a deterrent for careless driving and promote road safety awareness among drivers in Bahrain.
The case showcases the importance of having compulsory insurance for vehicle accidents to ensure that victims are adequately compensated for their injuries. It also emphasizes the responsibility of both drivers and insurance companies to adhere to regulations and provide compensation for damages caused by accidents. The ruling by the High Civil Court serves as a reminder to all motorists to drive responsibly and adhere to traffic laws to prevent accidents and potential legal repercussions.
Overall, the outcome of this case highlights the need for strict enforcement of laws related to vehicle insurance and civil liability in Bahrain. It sends a message that individuals who cause accidents due to negligence or recklessness will be held accountable for the damages incurred by the victims. By upholding the rights of the injured party and ensuring that they receive proper compensation, the legal system in Bahrain aims to promote accountability and road safety for all motorists.
