How to claim Car Insurance

Know the process to claim car insurance for own damages, theft, third-party claims, etc.
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How to claim car insurance
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3 mins
14-June-2024

Car insurance is essential in protecting your vehicle and yourself from the financial impact of an accident, theft, or any other damages caused to your car. However, it can be stressful to navigate the process of filing a claim. In this article, we will discuss how to claim car insurance and the steps you should take to make a successful claim.

What is an own damage car insurance?

Own damage car insurance is a type of insurance policy that covers damages or losses incurred to your vehicle due to accidents, theft, fire, or natural calamities. This is different from third-party insurance, which covers damages or liabilities to third-party individuals or property. Own damage insurance is an essential cover for car owners as it provides financial protection against unforeseen incidents and repairs.

This policy covers several factors, such as the cost of repair or replacement of damaged car parts, towing charges in case of an accident, and more. Additionally, own damage insurance could provide coverage for personal accidents, paid drivers, and pillion riders. Some insurance providers also offer add-on covers like zero depreciation, engine protection, consumable cover, and roadside assistance.

An own damage car insurance is a vital insurance policy that provides comprehensive coverage against damages or losses incurred to your vehicle due to unforeseen incidents. It is essential for car owners, especially those who have expensive cars and want to protect themselves financially against unforeseen expenses.

How to claim car insurance after an accident in India?

Here’s quick guide to how you can claim your car insurance policy.

Notify the insurance company:

As soon as any damage occurs to your car, immediately inform your insurance provider. Your policy document will have information about the process of reporting any claim. You can either call your insurer or write an email to them at the given contact details.

File an FIR:

If the damage has occurred as a result of theft, vandalism, or an accident, you must file a First Information Report or FIR with the local police station. This will ensure a legal record of the incident.

Gather evidence and documentation:

Collect any evidence that shows the extent of the damage caused. Take pictures or videos of the damage along with the details of the circumstances leading to the damage. Keep the bills and invoices for the repairs done to the vehicle.

Make sure everything is in writing:

Ensure that all communication between you and the insurer is in writing. This includes any emails or letters exchanged between you and the insurer.

Documents needed for car accident insurance claim

Here are some of the commonly asked documents asked by car insurance companies for car insurance claim.

  • Claim form duly signed by the insured
  • Copy of insurance certificate (policy documents)
  • Registration certificate of the vehicle
  • FIR copy, if applicable
  • Repair bill and payment receipts
  • Driving licence, if required

Procedure for making a car accident insurance claim after an incident

Here’s the process for raising car insurance claim for accidental damages.

Inform the insurer:

The first step to claiming car insurance for a car accident is to inform your insurance provider as soon as possible. Ensure to provide them with all the details of the incident.

File an FIR:

You need to file an FIR in case of any accident that results in damage to the vehicle, property, or any kind of injury.

Inspection by surveyor:

A surveyor will assess the damage and based on their assessment; the insurance company will process your claim. They will also determine the feasibility of repairing the vehicle or cover the loss.

Repair and payment:

Once the inspection is complete, the repair work commences if it is a cashless claim. Otherwise, if you have chosen to avail of the reimbursement claim, you will have to pay and then submit the receipts to your insurer for reimbursement.

Additional documents in case of reimbursement claim for car insurance

 

When filing a reimbursement claim for car insurance, you need to submit the following additional document

  • Original repair bills and receipts
  • Payment proof (cash memo, credit card statement, etc.)
  • FIR (if applicable)
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the financer (if the vehicle is financed)

Car insurance claim process for third-party claim

Here’s the process for raising car insurance claim for third-party damages.

Inform the insurer: In case of an accident-causing damage to the third-party vehicle, inform your insurer immediately.

Inform the police:

File an FIR and obtain a copy of the same from the local police station.

Inspection by surveyor:

The surveyor will assess the damage done by your vehicle. The surveyor may also decide if a spot inspection is required or not.

Assess and pay:

Based on the surveyor's investigation, the insurer will pay the third party the amount owed for damages caused by your vehicle.

Car insurance claim process for stolen car

Here’s the process for raising car insurance claim in case of theft.

FIR:

The first step to claiming insurance in case of theft of your car is to file an FIR at the nearest police station. Be sure to get a copy of the FIR.

Inform the insurer:

Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible with all the details of the theft, FIR copy, and other necessary information.

Surveyor inspection:

A surveyor will inspect the crime scene and prepare a report. They will also assess the vehicle's current market value and provide a report on the same.

Claim settlement:

If the insurer confirms the theft, the claim is processed, and you will receive the sum insured as per the policy terms and conditions.

What you should not do after an accident

After an accident, there are specific actions you should avoid in order to ensure your car insurance claim is processed smoothly:

  • Do not flee the scene: Staying at the site is crucial for accurate documentation and legal compliance.
  • Do not admit fault: Admissions of fault can complicate the claims process. Let the insurance companies determine liability.
  • Do not neglect documentation: Failing to take photos, gather witness information, or obtain a police report can weaken your claim.
  • Do not delay medical attention: Immediate medical assessment is essential for injury claims and ensuring your well-being.
  • Do not delay reporting: Report the accident to your insurer promptly to start the claims process and meet any deadlines.

Following these guidelines can help in the smooth processing of your car insurance claim and ensure that you receive the coverage you are entitled to.

Filing a car insurance claim can be a daunting process. However, by following the steps outlined above, you can make a successful claim. Always inform your insurer immediately and provide all the necessary documentation promptly. Remember to take photographs and videos of the damage and ensure that all communication with the insurer is in writing. Being prepared will make the process easier and increase the chances of a successful claim. It is always recommended to choose a reliable and reputed insurer, which makes the claim process simple and hassle-free.

Frequently asked questions

What is the process to file a car insurance claim?

The process to file a car insurance claim involves informing the insurance provider, filing an FIR with the local police station in case of an accident. You need to collect evidence and documentation of the damage caused to the car and submit all the necessary documents to the insurer. The insurer will then assess the damage, examine the documentation, and determine the feasibility of repairing the vehicle or paying for the loss.

What are the documents required for car insurance claim?

The necessary documents for car insurance claim includes claim form duly signed by the insured, the policy documents, registration certificate of the vehicle, FIR copy, if applicable, repair bill and payment receipts and driving license, if required.

How long does it take for car insurance claim settlement?

The duration for car insurance claim settlement varies depending on the extent of damage, the type of policy, and the insurance provider's process. However, most insurance providers aim to settle claims within 7 to 30 days of receiving the claim.

How many car insurance claims can I raise in a policy year?

The number of car insurance claims generally depends on the policy terms and conditions. Some policies may allow for a single claim during the policy tenure, while others offer multiple claims. It is recommended to read the policy document carefully to understand the number and type of claims that can be raised within a policy year.

Does bike insurance cover denting and painting?

Standard bike insurance typically does not cover denting and painting costs unless they are a result of an accident or damage covered under the policy. For minor dents and scratches, you might need to opt for specific add-on covers, such as zero depreciation or consumables cover, to include these expenses in your insurance policy.

How many times can I claim bike insurance?

The number of claims you can make under your bike insurance policy may vary. In most cases, there is no specific limit on the number of claims you can make during the policy period. However, frequent claims could lead to an increase in your premium during the policy renewal.

What is a bumper-to-bumper insurance?

Bumper-to-bumper insurance, often known as ‘zero depreciation’ or ‘full coverage’, is an add-on cover for bike insurance. It provides comprehensive protection, including coverage for damages to the bike without considering depreciation. This means that in the event of an accident, you can claim the entire cost of repairing or replacing damaged parts, including those subject to wear and tear, without any depreciation deductions. It is a valuable add-on for new bikes, as it ensures you receive the full value of your bike's parts during a claim settlement.

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