India, Sept. 25 -- The Allahabad High Court has held that an appellate court can enhance compensation awarded in a motor accident claim even when the victims or their dependants have not filed a separate appeal or cross-objection, provided the insurer has challenged the quantum of compensation.

Justice Prashant Kumar of the Lucknow bench of the court on Wednesday observed that the Motor Vehicles Act is beneficial legislation and courts must ensure that victims and their dependants receive just and fair compensation in accordance with law.

The court observed while dismissing an appeal filed by the National Insurance Company Ltd against an award of the Faizabad Motor Accident Claims Tribunal. The tribunal had awarded Rs 7.20 lakh to the f...