What Is a Motor Accident Claim Tribunal (MACT)? How Third-Party Claims Work
MACT is the tribunal that decides compensation in motor accident cases involving third-party liability. In many third party car insurance disputes, this process is used to determine fault, assess the loss, and issue a legally binding order for compensation payment.
Why MACT Matters in Third-Party Claims?
Third-party car insurance is compulsory because the law aims to protect road users. This cover is designed as liability-only insurance, so the focus is on another person’s loss, not repairs to your own vehicle.
That is why MACT exists as a dedicated mechanism for examining evidence and awarding compensation in a structured way. You will often hear this described as motor vehicle act coverage, because third-party protection flows from the Motor Vehicles framework and the liability principles it sets.
When a Claim Typically Goes to MACT
A matter is more likely to move through MACT when:
- There is bodily injury or death.
- Property damage is significant or disputed.
- parties disagree on who was at fault.
- The compensation needs a formal order.
Minor disputes can still be resolved faster, but MACT becomes important when legal clarity is required.
Third-Party vs Comprehensive: Why the Route Feels Different
Many people compare third-party vs. comprehensive plans only on price. The bigger difference shows up at claim time.
- A third-party case is usually compensation-led and document-led.
- A repair claim for your car is handled under own damage cover, which is part of a comprehensive policy or a standalone OD plan.
So, if your own car is damaged, third-party car insurance will not pay for it. You need your own damage cover for your repair bills, even if you buy car insurance.
How Third-Party Claims Work, Step By Step
This flow shows how a third-party case moves from accident reporting and document submission to MACT proceedings and compensation payout.
Step One: Report the Accident and Secure Official Records
Safety first, then report the matter to the police as required. A police record is often the anchor document in third-party cases. Where relevant, the charge sheet and related papers strengthen the file.
Step Two: Inform the Insurer Promptly
The at-fault vehicle owner should notify the insurer quickly with accurate details. Avoid mismatches in vehicle numbers, driver details, or dates, as they slow verification.
Step Three: Share the At-Fault Policy Details
If you are the claimant, collect the third-party policy details of the at-fault vehicle owner where possible. These details help the case move without repeated back-and-forth.
Step Four: File the Compensation Case in MACT
The claim petition is commonly filed in the MACT of the area where the accident occurred or where the claimant resides. The petition is supported by documents that show the incident, the loss suffered, and the basis of liability.
Step Five: Evidence, Hearings, and Award
MACT reviews documents and statements, hears the parties, and passes an award. The insurer typically pays compensation as directed, subject to the order and policy conditions.
Documents That Keep the Process Moving
A clean, readable file saves time. Commonly needed documents include:
- Policy copy and RC.
- Driving licence of the driver involved.
- FIR or police acknowledgement, and relevant police papers.
- Photos or videos of the scene and damages, if available.
- Medical records and bills for injury cases.
- Repair estimates and invoices for third-party property damage.
Keep scans organised, especially if you handle your car insurance online and store policies digitally.
Mistakes That Create Avoidable Delays
Small gaps, such as late reporting, missing records, or inconsistent documents, can slow verification and extend the MACT process.
- Late reporting or missing police records.
- Blurred scans, missing pages, or wrong vehicle details.
- Inconsistent accident narration across documents.
- Treating a third-party case like a normal repair claim for your own car.
If you receive a notice or summons, share it with your insurer immediately. Attend dates, submit documents on time, and avoid private settlements that conflict with the Tribunal record.
Final Thoughts
MACT is the legal pathway that makes third-party compensation enforceable. If you understand the Tribunal role, keep paperwork consistent, and coordinate with the insurer early, third-party car insurance claims become far more manageable and far less stressful.
