Karnataka Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar Involved in Car Accident Near Belagavi: Brother Injured Too
On the morning of January 14, 2025, Karnataka Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar was injured in a car accident while traveling near Ambadgatti, Belagavi. She was accompanied by her brother, Chennaraj Hattiholi, who also sustained injuries in the incident. The crash occurred as they were returning to Belagavi from a late-night Congress Legislative Party (CLP) meeting held in Bengaluru.
According to the police, the driver of the vehicle swerved to avoid a dog that had crossed the road, which led to the car losing control and crashing into a tree.
Driver Swerves to Avoid Dog, Leads to Vehicle Collision
The vehicle’s driver acted quickly to avoid hitting a dog that appeared suddenly on the road. However, this decision resulted in the vehicle veering off the road and colliding with a roadside tree. Despite the severity of the crash, the airbags deployed in time and helped to reduce the impact on the passengers.
The police have reported that both Hebbalkar and Hattiholi were conscious following the accident, and emergency medical services were quick to respond.
Both Hebbalkar and Hattiholi Stable After Hospitalization
Following the crash, both the minister and her brother were taken to a private hospital in Belagavi. Hebbalkar suffered minor injuries, including cuts to her face and waist, while Hattiholi sustained head injuries.
Doctors confirmed that both were in stable condition and were expected to recover soon.
Importance of Vehicle Safety Features
The airbags in the vehicle played a significant role in mitigating the severity of the accident. This is a reminder of the importance of vehicle safety features, such as airbags, which are designed to protect passengers during sudden collisions.
Public and Political Reaction to the Accident
Upon hearing the news of the accident, political leaders from various parties expressed their concern and wished for a swift recovery for both Hebbalkar and Hattiholi. There have been calls for increased attention to road safety in Karnataka, particularly in rural areas where accidents like this can occur due to the presence of stray animals and other unforeseen obstacles.
Road Safety Must Be a Priority
The accident involving Karnataka Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar and her brother underscores the need for improved road safety in the state. The timely deployment of airbags helped reduce the risk of serious injuries, but further steps should be taken to ensure the safety of all road users.
As both recover, this incident serves as a crucial reminder to prioritize road safety through better infrastructure and public awareness campaigns.