Accident – Minor Driver’s Car Crash Leaves Couple Critical in Mumbai
Accident – A serious road accident in Mumbai’s Vidyavihar area late on February 5 has left a married couple battling for their lives after their two-wheeler was struck by a speeding car allegedly driven by a 17-year-old boy. Police have initiated legal proceedings against the teenager’s father for allowing his underage son to operate the vehicle without a valid driving license.
High-Speed Crash Near Somaiya College
The collision occurred around 11:15 pm on Tansa Pipeline Road, close to Somaiya College. According to investigators, the car, identified as a Kia Seltos, was travelling at an excessive speed when it rammed into the motorcycle carrying 33-year-old Dhurmil Premji Patel and his wife, Minal Patel.
Witnesses at the scene told police that the vehicle appeared to be moving at nearly 100 kmph before the driver lost control. The force of the impact was so intense that the couple was thrown several feet away from their motorcycle. The car eventually crashed into a roadside wall, sustaining heavy damage.
Eyewitness Accounts and Immediate Response
People present nearby rushed to help moments after the accident. Bystanders said the teenage driver and his father, identified as 43-year-old Valji Raja Bhushan, remained at the spot until officers from Tilak Nagar police station reached the location.
The injured couple, residents of Ghatkopar West, had reportedly closed their shop in Lower Parel and were on their way home when the crash took place. Local residents expressed shock over the severity of the collision, noting that the stretch of road has seen instances of rash driving in the past.
Emergency responders transported the victims to Rajawadi Hospital for initial treatment. Due to the seriousness of their injuries, they were later shifted to Zynova Shalby Hospital on LBS Road, where doctors have described their condition as critical.
Verification of Minor’s Age and Legal Action
During the preliminary inquiry, police verified the driver’s age through official documents, including his Aadhaar card and birth certificate, confirming that he was born on June 29, 2008. As he is below the legal driving age and did not possess a driving license, authorities have treated the case with added seriousness.
The complaint that led to the formal registration of the case was filed by Mahesh Karamshi Patel, the uncle of the injured man. Based on his statement and initial findings, police have registered a First Information Report against the father for negligence in permitting an underage individual to drive.
Charges Under Relevant Laws
Officials confirmed that sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Motor Vehicles Act have been invoked in the case. The FIR states that the minor was driving recklessly and without authorization, directly leading to grievous injuries.
Under Indian law, guardians can be held accountable if they knowingly allow a minor to operate a motor vehicle. Investigators are examining the circumstances under which the teenager gained access to the car and whether any additional violations occurred.
Family members of the injured couple have voiced concern over what they describe as delays in taking strong action against those responsible. They have urged authorities to ensure swift legal proceedings and accountability.
Ongoing Investigation
Police officials said the investigation is continuing and further action will depend on medical updates and forensic findings related to the accident. The damaged vehicle has been seized for inspection, and statements from additional witnesses are being recorded.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the dangers of underage driving and the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws in busy urban areas like Mumbai. Authorities have reiterated that allowing minors behind the wheel not only violates the law but also endangers public safety.