Cashless Treatment Scheme for Road Accident Victims Coming Soon
New scheme offers cashless treatment for road accident victims, awards Good Samaritans.
Photo by Odinei Ramone
Key Facts
Cashless treatment coverage: ₹1.5 lakh
Good Samaritan award: ₹25,000
Road fatalities reduction potential: 30%
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors.
GS Paper III: Infrastructure: Road infrastructure.
Potential question types: Analyzing the effectiveness of government schemes, evaluating the impact on road safety, assessing the role of insurance in healthcare.
Visual Insights
Key Statistics: Cashless Treatment Scheme for Road Accident Victims
Key statistics related to the new cashless treatment scheme and its potential impact on road accident fatalities.
- Coverage Amount
- ₹1.5 Lakh
- Good Samaritan Award
- ₹25,000
- Potential Fatality Reduction
- 30%
Maximum amount available for cashless treatment of road accident victims.
Incentive for individuals who assist road accident victims.
Projected reduction in road fatalities with timely medical intervention (AIIMS study).
More Information
Background
The concept of providing assistance to road accident victims has evolved significantly over time. Historically, informal systems of aid, often relying on community members and religious organizations, were the primary means of support. The legal framework for addressing road accidents began to develop with the Motor Vehicles Act of 1939, which focused primarily on liability and compensation.
However, it lacked provisions for immediate medical assistance. The inadequacy of this system became increasingly apparent with rising road accidents, leading to amendments in subsequent Motor Vehicles Acts. The current initiative builds upon these earlier efforts, aiming to provide a more structured and comprehensive approach to emergency care and financial assistance for road accident victims, acknowledging the 'Golden Hour' concept for saving lives.
Latest Developments
Recent years have witnessed a growing emphasis on road safety and victim support, driven by increasing accident rates and the recognition of the socio-economic impact of road fatalities. The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, introduced stricter penalties for traffic violations and enhanced compensation for accident victims. Several states have also implemented their own schemes for providing immediate assistance to accident victims.
The current nationwide cashless treatment scheme represents a significant step towards a more standardized and accessible system of care. Future developments are likely to focus on integrating this scheme with existing healthcare infrastructure, improving data collection and analysis to identify accident hotspots, and promoting public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible driving and bystander assistance.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the proposed cashless treatment scheme for road accident victims: 1. The scheme provides coverage up to ₹1.5 lakh for road accident victims nationwide. 2. The scheme is exclusively applicable to accidents occurring on national highways. 3. Good Samaritans who assist victims will be eligible for a cash award of ₹25,000. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is correct as the scheme provides coverage up to ₹1.5 lakh. Statement 3 is correct as Good Samaritans are eligible for a cash award of ₹25,000. Statement 2 is incorrect as the scheme covers road accidents anywhere in the country, not just on national highways.
2. With reference to the 'Golden Hour' in the context of road accidents, consider the following statements: 1. It refers to the first hour after a road accident, during which timely medical intervention can significantly reduce fatalities. 2. The concept of 'Golden Hour' is exclusively applicable to trauma cases and not other medical emergencies. 3. The AIIMS study cited by the Minister for Road Transport and Highways suggests that road fatalities could be reduced by 50% with timely intervention during the 'Golden Hour'. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 only
- B.2 only
- C.1 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: A
Statement 1 is correct as it accurately defines the 'Golden Hour'. Statement 2 is incorrect as the 'Golden Hour' concept applies to various medical emergencies, not just trauma cases. Statement 3 is incorrect as the AIIMS study suggests a 30% reduction, not 50%.
3. Which of the following sources will primarily fund the medical expenses under the cashless treatment scheme for road accident victims in cases where the involved vehicle is not insured?
- A.Consolidated Fund of India
- B.Contingency Fund of India
- C.Road Safety Fund
- D.National Health Mission Fund
Show Answer
Answer: C
The Road Safety Fund will be used to fund the medical expenses under the cashless treatment scheme for road accident victims in cases where the involved vehicle is not insured.