Car insurance coverage proves to be a blessing, especially when you face uninvited accidental damages. All you must do is inform your insurance provider and register the claim to get compensation for the loss. However, such insurance claims usually have to be reported within a stipulated time. Thus, it is crucial to intimate your insurer at the earliest for a hassle-free claim settlement process. So, in this section let’s understand how to claim car insurance after an accident.
You can follow the below-given procedure to know the method for claiming insurance after a car accident:
Inform your insurer about the incident as soon as possible. It is recommended to provide accurate details regarding the accident and avoid withholding any information as it may lead to last-minute claim issues.
The next step is to contact the nearest police station and file an FIR in the event of a major accident. But in case of minor damages such as dents or scratches, an FIR is not required. A First Information Report (FIR) must be filed for third-party accidents or physical injury.
For accidental claims, it is recommended to take pictures of the place where the incident took place. Ensure you also capture photos of the damage incurred to your vehicle and any physical injuries sustained. This can act as proof while raising your car insurance accident claim to get the right compensation amount.
To initiate the claim process, you need to submit certain documents such as the registration certificate, copy of FIR, driving licence, etc. Send the required documents along with the claim settlement form to your insurance provider for a speedy process.
Finally, you can take your car to the nearest network garage to get it repaired and serviced. You can also opt for a reimbursement claim and take your vehicle to a preferred garage. A surveyor appointed by the insurance provider shall inspect the loss incurred and send a report to the company. On receiving approval from the insurer, the garage will begin repairing your car.
In case of a cashless claim, the bill shall be directly settled but for a reimbursement claim, the insurer will compensate you.
Keep the following documents handy while claiming insurance after a car accident:
Claim settlement form
Copy of car insurance policy
Registration certificate of your car
Valid driving licence
Original repair invoice, bills, etc.
Copy of FIR, if applicable
Medical bills in case of physical injury
There are two types of car insurance claims that you can make in the event of an accident:
In case a third party has caused damage or loss to your vehicle or property, you can raise a third-party insurance claim. By noting down the details of the third party’s insurer, you can claim the damage expenses.
Though there is no limit on the compensation for injury or death of the victim, the cover for third party damages is capped at ₹7.5 lakh. The case will then be sent to the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal to determine the compensation amount.
If you have caused damage to a third party’s vehicle, your insurance provider shall compensate for the loss incurred by the victim.
In the event of an unfortunate accident, you can file a claim to cover the damages incurred by your own vehicle. However, you must possess a comprehensive insurance plan to cover your own damage. Your insurance provider shall inspect the loss and offer compensation for the repair and servicing of your car. Thus, you can financially secure your vehicle from any untoward incidents.
To safeguard yourself from any such unforeseen accidents, it is crucial to have the right comprehensive car insurance policy. Even if you diligently practise road safety regulations, the chances of mishaps and other risks cannot be avoided.
So, don’t put it off any longer and head over to Finserv MARKETS to purchase a car insurance plan. With the cashless facility, speedy claim settlements and various add-on covers, financially secure your prized possession from future mishaps.
These are some of the documents needed to make an accident insurance claim:
Duly filled insurance claim form
FIR of the accident
Your insurance policy papers
Bills and receipts of the repairs
Yes, you can claim insurance for dents. However, it is advisable to get small damages like dents and scratches repaired on your own and make claims for only heavy damages to your car.
If the extent of damage is minimal, you can pay for the damages on your own. If the damage is significant, you should make an insurance claim.