Car accident case in 2004 - Whats the way out?
This happened sometime in early 2004, on Mehrauli-Gurgaon road (near Andheria Modh). I was driving towards home at 7.30 am and at a decent speed. I was NOT DRUNK. Suddenly, an autorickshaw came from the opposite side, swerved sharply towards right and banged into my car. The driver+2 passengers were flung out, but luckily no one suffered any serious injuries (i.e. no broken limbs or fractures etc.). I had them taken to the hospital and got them treated. They were discharged the same day after first aid (i.e. NO GRIEVOUS INJURIES). I also got their x-ray done to ensure there were no internal damages. I bore all their medical expenses and also paid them money over that as compensation (despite it not being my fault).
Meanwhile, local crowd had called in the police and an FIR got registered against me. I was charged U/S 279 (Rash driving or riding on a public way) and U/S 337 (Causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others). The case was NOT filed by the hurt party, but by the cops (i.e. it appears in the court records as 'State Vs Me')
I attended court hearings twice, along with my lawyer. The other party had given fake address, so whenever they were summoned, or notices were sent, they never appeared in court. The case was even referred to 'Lok Adalat' but since the other party was not traceable, it came back to the District Courts. On my 3rd appearance, my lawyer sought exemption from personal appearance on medical grounds, and it was granted.
Then, I went abroad for 3 years in July 2004 (for study and work). During my absence, cops used to appear at my house with a show-cause notice/summon asking me to appear in court. Every time, my folks paid them a bribe and get the date extended (adjournment). This thing continued till about 1.5 years back (2008-09) and we did not hear from the cops ever since.
Now on Friday (May 14, 2010), some cops suddenly appeared at my house with a 'Non-bailable warrant'. They have asked me to appear in court on May 18, 2010.
My questions are:
1. How come suddenly they have woken up after 1.5 years and issued me a NBW? Can someone else (my lawyer, or parents) appear on my behalf?
2. What do I have to do now to get this case dismissed?
Its been 6 years since the incident and the other party has not even filed the case! They were ok with me paying their hospital bills and additional compensation. In fact, I assume they wanted to avoid legal hassles right from the start and that's why never even gave the right address.
3. The case hearings happen in District Court (Delhi) and I have been staying in Mumbai since the last 3 years. It's really difficult for me to make personal appearance in court. What's the way out?
4. What if I do not appear in court on May 18? What can be the consequences?