The Supreme Court has declared the right to walk on demarcated footpaths as a fundamental right, mandating enhanced compensation for victims of accidents on these paths.
Supreme Court Declares Pedestrian Rights Fundamental
The Supreme Court of India has made a landmark declaration that the right to walk on demarcated footpaths is now deemed a fundamental right. This landmark ruling aims to enhance the safety of pedestrians and mandates higher compensation for victims injured due to accidents on footpaths.
In delivering this judgment, the court stressed the importance of footpaths as a crucial component of urban infrastructure, integral to pedestrian safety and mobility. The ruling encourages local authorities to ensure the maintenance and safety of footpaths to prevent accidents.
“Every citizen has a right to walk safely on the roads,” the court noted.
This declaration is significant for practitioners in personal injury and public liability cases, as it expands the scope for claiming compensation for accidents occurring on footpaths. Legal professionals must be prepared to adapt their strategies to leverage this new legal framework in advocating for the rights of pedestrians.
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