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)}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 \f2\fs24\lang5129\langfe5129\cgrid\langnp5129\langfenp5129 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par At Labasa \par Civil Jurisdiction \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par CIVIL APPEAL NO. 2 OF 1991 \par \par Between: \par \par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 SHIRI RAM \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 s/o Mohan Lal}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Appellant \par \par - and - \par \par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 SUKH RANI}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13897792 \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 d/o Sahadeo \par (as }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Administratrix of}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 the Estate of Shiu Lal}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 ) \par Respondent \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid16211099 \par Mr.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809\charrsid16211099 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid16211099 M. Sadiq for the Appellant \par Mr.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809\charrsid16211099 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid16211099 A. Sen for the Respondent \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx3969\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid16211099 \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 This is an appeal against an award of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 $8,600}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 made by the}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Labasa Magistrate Court}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 in favour of the estate of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Shiu Lal}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 who died as a result of injuries he sustained in a motor vehicle accident. \par \par In dealing with this appeal it is well to bear in mind the dictum of }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Lord Wright}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 when he said of the role of an appellate court in }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Davies and Another v. Powell Duffryn Associated Collieries Ltd}{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 . (1942) 1 ALL E.R. 657}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 at }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 p.664}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\sa120\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "No doubt an appellate court is always reluctant to inte rfere with a finding of the trial judge on any question of fact, but it is particularly reluctant to interfere with a finding on damages."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par and later}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\sa120\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "In effect, the Court, before it interferes with an award of damages, should be satisfied that the judge has acted upon a wrong principle of law or has misapprehended the facts, or has for these reasons or other reasons made a wholly erroneous estimate of the damage suffered.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 It i}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 s}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 not enough that there is a balance of opinion or preference.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 The scale must g o down heavily against the figure attacked if the appellate court is to interfere, whether on the ground of excess or insufficiency."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par In the petition of appeal the appellant has advanced 6 grounds of appeal as follows}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 1.}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 THAT the Learned Magistrate erred in law and in fact in accepting the age of the deceased }{\b\i\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 SHIU LAL}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 to be 50 years, when no Birth Certificate or any other proper document in support of it was tendered in Court. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 2.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 THAT the Learned Magistrate erred in law and in fact in holding that the children were depended on the said deceased when no Birth Certificate or other documentary evidence was tendered in Court. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 3.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 THAT the Learned Magistrate erred in law and in fact in rejecting the defence of contributory negligence, when there was ample evidence to that effect. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 4.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 THAT the Learned Magistrate erred in law and in fact in accepting the income of the said deceased in the absence of proper proof thereof. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 5.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 THAT the Learned Magistrate erred in law and in fact in not allowing any deduction und er the followings}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (a)}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Accelerated benefits by succession. \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (b)}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Law Reform (Contributory negligence and Tortfeasors) Act, Cap. 30. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\sa120\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 6.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 THAT the verdict of the Learned Magistrate is unreasonable in view of the evidence tendered in Court."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par In arguing the appeal however learned counsel for the appellant conceded that the grounds tended to overlap and they were dealt with and argued together.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 I propose to adopt a similar approach in this judgment. \par \par Before dealing with the grounds of appeal however it is necessary}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 to briefly outline the facts of the case as they appear from the pleadings, the evidence and the specific findings of the learned trial magistrate.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par In this latter regard the learned trial magistrate has recorded in his judgment at }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 p.85}{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 of the record}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :} {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "... on the evidence that had been led in the case I came to the following conclusions}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 : }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 1.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15539483 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 The deceased Shiu Lal died on the 9th of November 1982 as a result of the injuries he had sustained in the motor accident that took place on or about the 5th day of October 1982}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 ;}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 2.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15539483 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 That the plaintiff is the widow of the deceased Shiu Lal}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 ;}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 3.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15539483 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 The deceased Shiu Lal was around 50 years of age at the time of his \par death}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 ; }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\sa120\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\tx1440\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 4.}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15539483 }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 At the time of his death, his wife Sukh Rani and the children Om Prasad, Jag Prasad, Sar as Kumari and Anil Kamal were his dependants."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par Learned Counsel for the appellant whilst accepting that the appellant admitted in his pleadings being involved in an accident and that }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Shiu Lal}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 had received injuries in the accident nevertheless sought to dispute the findings of the learned trial magistrate as to }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 the date of the accident; the age of the deceased; the identity of his dependants; and the nature and extent of their dependency on the deceased at the time of his death.}{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 I cannot accept that there i s any merit at all in any of these grounds of complaint which are based on apparent discrepancies in the witnesses evidence in the Magistrates Court and/or a lack of documentary evidence such as a marriage certificate or birth certificates. \par \par I note that similar complaints were raised in written submissions provided to the learned trial magistrate by the appellant's counsel (}{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 see}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 pp. 47 and 49 of the record}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 ) and these were fully dealt with and dismissed in the learned trial magistrate's judgment at }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 pp. 83}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 and }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 84}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 of the record. \par \par Even accepting that this appeal is in the nature of a rehearing and that the plaintiff bears the burden of proving his claim, nevertheless, in my view it is incumbent upon a party in civil proceedings to challenge any evidence whether documentary or oral which is not accepted and which counsel intends to ask the Court to disbelieve. \par \par In this latter regard the record reveals that the }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Letters of Administration}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 granted to the respondent and a typewritten transcript of the entire Magistrate Court record of proceedings in the appellant's earlier }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Traffic Case}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 in which he was convicted of dangerous driving, were both admitted by consent}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (as Exhibits 1 and 2 respectively)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 and formed part of the evidence before the learned trial magistrate and was referred to by him in his judgment.}{ \i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid15539483 \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par As for the }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Letters of Administration}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 ,}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Section 59(3)}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Succession, Probate and Administration Act }{ \i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (Cap. 60)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 provides}{ \i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 inter alia}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 that a sealed copy of a grant of administration }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "... shall be sufficient evidence of that grant and of the death and the date of death of the deceased without further proof."}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par As for the question of dependants and the extent of their dependency it will be noted that }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Section 2}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 of the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Law Reform}{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (Contributory Negligence and Tortfeasors)}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Act}{ \i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Cap.30}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 defines a }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "dependant"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 as}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\sa120\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "any person for whose benefit an action could be brought under the Compensation to Relatives Act;"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par and this latter Act provides}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (so far as relevant)}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 in }{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Section 4}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\sa120\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\tx720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "Every ... action shall be for the benefit of the wife ... and child of the person whose death has been caused."}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par Clearly then any }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "child"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 of the deceased is by necessary inference a }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "dependant"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 irrespective of age, marital status or residency. \par \par In the light of the above and after carefully considering the evidence of the respondent and the deceased's son I am satisfied that there was sufficient evidence before the learned trial magistrate to support his earlier mentioned conclusions. \par \par The learned counsel for the appellant disputed the learned trial magistrate's finding on the question of}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{ \i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 '}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 contributory negligence'}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 This issue insofar as it relates to the deceased was first raised in the written submissions provided to the learned trial magistrate. \par \par It is no where pleaded in the }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Statement of Defence}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 that the dece ased was contributorily negligent as it should have been (}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 see}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Fookes v. Slaytor}{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (1978) 1 W.L.R. 1293}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 ),}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 but in any event the learned trial magistrate dealt}{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 with it and rejected it as unsupported by the evidence. \par \par Learned counsel for the appellant however in the appeal argued that}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 '}{ \i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 contributory negligence'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 was an irresistible inference from the presence of other uninjured passengers in the appellant's van and in support of this assertion reference was selectively made to the evidence in the appellant's traff ic case and the observations of the magistrate in sentencing the appellant therein. \par \par The submission however blithely ignores the evidence of the police officer who attended the scene of the accident and who testified without any dispute that all 4 occupants of the appellant's vehicle }{ \b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "... were injured and had been taken to hospital"}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 . \par \par Clearly all of the appellant's passengers were in fact injured to some degree although not as seriously as the deceased who had the misfortune of being thrown off the appellant's vehicle.}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Additionally there is no evidence or suggestion that the deceased jumped from the appellant's moving vehicle }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 or}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 was in fact unsafely seated in the tray }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 or}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 was acting in any manner in complete disregard for his own safety. \par \par Viewing the matter broadly and on commonsense principles the learned trial magistrate was perfectly entitled to form the view that he did when dealing with the question of the deceased's contributory negligence.}{ \i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid15539483 \par }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 In all the circumstances the learned trial magistrate was correct in holding the appellant liable for the death of }{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Shiu Lal}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 .}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Grounds 1, 2, 3 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 and }{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 6}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 of the appellant's grounds of appeal are accordingly dismissed. \par \par Complaint is also taken as to the learned trial magistrate's findings as to the deceased's earnings which he estimated to be }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 $1,200 per annum }{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (being less than half the amount claimed) as a }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "justifiable figure"}{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 after concluding that the annual income compiled from the actual evidence led by the plaintiff was }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 "an exaggeration"}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 . \par \par It also appears that the learned trial magistrate used the commonly employed method of calculating damages in claims of this nature under the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Law Reform Act}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 , namely, of fixing a basic yearly figure for the deceased's probable earnings less a percentage amount for his own personal use and enjoyment }{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (i.e. a }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 '}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 multiplicand')}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 and increasing it by a number of years purchase }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (i.e. a }{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 '}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 multiplier')}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 , in this case the figure }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 10}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 , being the learned magistrate's estimate of the deceased's }{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 '}{\b\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 life expectancy'}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 . \par \par On this latter aspect I have no doubt that the learned trial magistrate erred.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 True the }{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 '}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 multiplier'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 is a figure based primarily on a person's life expectancy but there are numerous other factors that it also seeks to reflect such as the number of working years of which the deceased was deprived, the fluctuations in the value of money, the uncertainties in life, and the fact that the damages awarded will be paid as a capital sum from which interest may be derived during the period of dependency. \par \par In this latter regard it should be noted that most of the deceased's children would have or were married and would be or had already left their parents and were living independ}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid15539483 e}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 nt lives of their own.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Furthermore although in the absence of the deceased hired help may be required to work the paddy fields the area of the holding being cultivated had been halved to }{ \b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 2.5 acres}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 . \par \par Accordingly the }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 '}{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 multiplier'}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 is reduced to }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 5}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 thus giving a gross figure of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 $(1,200 x 5) = $6,000 }{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 less}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 30%}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 for the deceased's personal use making a total sum of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 $(6,000 - $1,800) = $4,200}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 for loss of earnings for the lost years.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 The estate is also awarded a sum of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 $800}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 for}{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 }{\i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 '}{ \i\f0\expnd0\expndtw-2\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 loss of expectation of life'}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 which the respondent had sought and which the learned trial magistrate appears to have over-looked in his award.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 }{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 Funeral expenses in the sum of }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 $200}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 as claimed and admitted by the appellant is also awarded making a total reduced award of}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid4800809 :}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\tx0\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 $(4,200 + 800 + 200) = $5,200.}{ \f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par Subject to the foregoing variations the learned trial magistrate's judgment is confirmed and the appeal dismissed. \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx3969\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15539483 {\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 (D.V. Fatiaki) \par }{\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 JUDGE \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4800809 {\b\f0\ul\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }{\b\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 At Labasa, \par 28th October, 1992.}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }\pard \qr \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-720\hyphpar0\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15236578 {\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid13897792 HBA0291.91B}{\f0\expnd0\expndtw-3\lang2057\langfe5129\langnp2057\insrsid8870181\charrsid4800809 \par }}