In a significant move to encourage bystanders to assist road accident victims, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that the reward for Good Samaritans would be increased from ₹5,000 to ₹25,000. The announcement was made during a road safety event in Nagpur, where Gadkari was accompanied by actor Anupam Kher.
Reward Raised from ₹5,000 to ₹25,000; Medical Expenses Covered Up to ₹1.5 Lakh
Explaining the rationale, Gadkari emphasized that the previous reward was insufficient to motivate people to act swiftly in saving lives. “The first hour after an accident, known as the Golden Hour, is crucial. We want to ensure that accident victims receive immediate help without hesitation,” he said.
Yet Another Attempt to Save Lives! Nitin Gadkari Announces Increased Reward for Good Samaritans
The government has also expanded its support by covering hospital expenses of up to ₹1.5 lakh for the first seven days following an accident. This benefit applies to victims injured on both national and state highways, broadening the scope of the assistance program.
The Good Samaritan Scheme, launched in October 2021, rewards individuals who save the lives of road accident victims by promptly rushing them to a hospital for medical treatment. The scheme aims to reduce fatalities by encouraging timely intervention.
According to the government, a Good Samaritan is anyone who, without expectation of compensation or legal obligation, provides immediate assistance to an injured person in good faith.
This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving road safety and fostering a sense of responsibility among citizens. With the increased reward and expanded medical coverage, authorities hope more people will step forward to save lives, reducing the number of preventable deaths caused by delays in medical assistance.
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