Did you know India recorded 4,61,312 road accidents in 2022? Such unexpected events can happen to anyone; however, we can protect our vehicle with a car insurance policy and ensure much-required financial protection for such unfortunate events.
Whether it’s minor damage or a severe collision, knowing how to claim car insurance can speed up the process and help you get back on the road faster. In this article, we will walk you through the essential steps involved in claiming vehicle insurance in a hassle-free manner.
A clear understanding of how to claim insurance for car damage provides peace of mind and helps in going about it properly. So, let’s delve deeper and explore the steps involved.
Documents Required for Car Insurance Claim Submission
Documents required for car insurance claim submission differ according to the specific situation.
- For accident-related claims: You will require a duly filled claim form with your signature, tax receipts, a copy of the car insurance policy, a copy of the vehicle insurance registration certificate, the driver's licence, a copy of the FIR lodged at a police station, an estimated bill and an original bill of the car's repair cost, and the vehicle inspection address.
- For theft claims: You will need a copy of the vehicle’s insurance policy, the FIR copy from the police station, theft declaration from the RTO, Subrogation Letter, tax payment receipts, original car registration books, previous policy details (if any), Forms (viz., 28, 29, 30, and 35), official notification to the RTO about the incident, and claim discharge voucher with a signature on the revenue stamp.
- For third-party claims: You need to provide a duly filled and signed claim form, a copy of the police FIR, and a copy of the RC and DL.
Easy Steps for Making a Car Insurance Claim
The process of claiming car insurance involves several steps. Follow the steps listed below to make a car insurance claim:
Step 1: Begin the process of how to claim car insurance by informing the insurer. You must notify the insurer immediately about the damage caused to the vehicle, the reasons for the damage, and other details. It is advisable to stay transparent while sharing details about the incident, as it reduces the probability of rejection.
Step 2: Lodge an FIR at the police station under whose jurisdiction the incident has occurred, particularly if it is a case of theft, accident, fire, or third-party liability. Some insurance companies also cover losses due to natural events. For instance, if your car gets damaged due to a tree falling on it during a severe cyclone or storm, your insurer will cover the expenses incurred in repairing the vehicle.
Step 3: Take clear photographs of the vehicle from all angles. Also, take photos of the spot or accident site. It helps the insurer to assess the extent of damage and fasten the verification process.
Step 4: The insurer assigns a surveyor to analyse the damage and prepare an assessment report to settle your claim.
Step 5: Car insurance policyholders must submit documents to the insurer, including a copy of the FIR, a copy of the insurance policy, and a copy of the driving licence. You must also provide any other document as requested by the insurer.
Step 6: You can take your vehicle to an insurer's network garage and get it repaired. You can avail of the cashless facility as the insurer takes care of the bill and pays the network garage. For repairs done in a non-network garage, you need to pay upfront and file for reimbursement later.
Conclusion
A valid car insurance policy is mandatory according to the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. Although third-party liability coverage is compulsory, a comprehensive car insurance policy is a better choice to enjoy 360-degree coverage. Knowing the claim process and what’s included and excluded in the plan saves you the pain of a delayed settlement or claim denial.