Bengaluru: When Sani Krishna,32, became bidridden mid-June following an accident which took place during her bike-taxi ride to work, she had one goal: To fight the aggregator until sufficient compensation is received and to demand accountability.Thursday, her two-month fight bore partial fruit as Rapido finally agreed to process the entire medical expenses through its insurance partner. A Rapido spokesperson told TOI that the process will be expedited.The mobility aggregator revealed that all bike-taxi rides booked through the platform are covered by an insurance policy for both customers and captains. This policy was, however, capped at a maximum of Rs 1 lakh in case of a claim, while her treatment had caused more than Rs 20 lakh.TOI reported on Aug 10 that while Rapido was willing to provide the maximum insurance claim under the policy, it did not accept to pay Sani’s entire medical bills. The accident occurred on June 17 while Sani was commuting between Byrasandra and Domlur for her work. A collision resulted in a tractor running over her.On Aug 6, Sani’s advocate sent a legal notice to Rapido demanding an apology and compensation to cover the expenses fully.Rapido stated that it changed its stance as the accident was an exceptional circumstance. “Given the exceptional circumstances of this case, Rapido has also communicated its willingness to facilitate the processing of the entire eligible medical expense claim, without applying the standard policy cap, subject to the submission and verification of the requisite documentation by the insurer,” the spokesperson clarified.The aggregator also said it will ensure that Sani’s family receives the full amount towards her medical expenses under the insurance claim.While Sani had earlier claimed direct compensation from the aggregator instead of depending on a third party, Rapido explained that it is not permitted under applicable law to process insurance claims on behalf of an insurer.For Sani, who is currently recovering from what she describes as a near-death accident, the update marks a relief. She pointed out that the fight isn’t done: “Rapido still has not communicated to me their decision to insure the entire medical expense. I always had and still have belief that I will overcome this crisis. We also wanted them to take responsibility and apologise for the incident, and it hasn’t happened yet,” she expressed.Still unable to travel or work, the Bengaluru-based interior designer said she struggles every day. Sani underwent several surgeries, including plastic surgery for her face as she lost multiple teeth and fractured seven ribs.The circumstances of the accident, including questions relating to the captain’s authorisation and conduct are under investigation, Rapido said.
