To guarantee you obtain the insurance benefits you are entitled to, it is important to promptly make a claim with your insurance company after an accident. If your claim is deemed genuine, they will cover the costs of the damages incurred by you and your vehicle.
Understanding the process is not only necessary for seeking reimbursement for damages but also for receiving financial support during this difficult time. From promptly notifying your insurance company to gathering the required documents efficiently, we’ll equip you with all the information you need.
Accidents happen unexpectedly, but being prepared can make all the difference. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll have the tools to navigate through this crucial process and confidently handle everything that comes your way.
Below are the steps to help you navigate the process of making a car insurance claim following an accident:
1. Notify Your Insurance Company: Immediately contact your insurance company and inform them about the damage sustained in the accident. Provide them with all relevant details.
2. Alert Local Authorities: Intimate the police about the incident and obtain an FIR (First Information Report). Ensure that important information, such as details of the vehicles involved and any witnesses present, is recorded in the FIR.
3. File a Claim: Submit a claim to your insurance company and request that they assign a surveyor to assess the extent of the damages. Some insurers offer online claim submission facilities, which can be convenient if available.
4. Gather Required Documents: To validate and approve your claim, your insurance company may require specific documents. Make sure you provide all necessary documentation and complete any required claim forms accurately.
The following documents are typically needed during a car insurance claim process:
– Copy of Your Insurance Policy
– First Information Report (FIR) filed with the police
– Fully Completed and Signed Claim Form
– Copy of Your Vehicle’s Registration Certificate
– Copy of Your Driving License
– Detailed Repair Estimate
– Medical Receipts (if applicable)
– Original records of other related expenses incurred
Third Party Claims
If another party was responsible for causing damage or injury to you/your vehicle, you have two options for filing a claim: third-party or own damage.
Third-party claims can be made against another vehicle owner when their actions caused harm or damage to you or your car. In such cases, follow these steps to make a successful third-party claim:
Steps to Follow for a Third Party Claim:
1. Obtain the insurance details of the vehicle responsible for damaging your car and inform their insurer about the incident.
2. Immediately report the incident to your own insurance company within the specified time frame.
3. Submit a third-party claim application with your insurer if you are the victim seeking compensation from the vehicle owner. If your vehicle caused injury, death, or property damage to a third party, file the claim through your insurance company.
4. Contact the police helpline number and file a First Information Report (FIR), providing details such as the registration number of the car involved, driver’s license number, and contact information of any witnesses.
5. File a case with the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal that has jurisdiction over where the accident occurred or where both you (the claimant) and the third party reside or conduct business.
Own Damage Claim:
You can submit an own damage claim if your insured car sustains loss or damage due to an accident. Your insurer will cover medical expenses and repair costs resulting from the accident, but you must prove that they were caused by the accident. This claim is only applicable if you have a comprehensive policy.
Tips to Follow:
1. Check yourself and your car for injuries. If there are serious injuries are present, call for medical help immediately.
2. File the insurance claim within the specified time frame, typically within 24 hours, to avoid claim repudiation.
3. Take note of the registration number, model, and color of the other vehicle involved in the accident.
4. Speak to witnesses at the scene of the accident and get their contact information and names for future reference.
5. Consider whether making a claim is necessary if the damage is minor and limited to your vehicle.
6. Avoid confrontations with the other party involved in the accident as it can lead to unnecessary confusion.
7. Refrain from providing statements to the police or insurance company unless you are certain about your next steps.
8. Move your vehicle from the accident spot for repairs only when permitted by both the police and insurance company.
9. Gather all required documents and fill out the claim form promptly. Your vehicle may also need inspection.
10. If your car insurance policy offers cashless claim facility, take your vehicle to a network garage for repairs without any out-of-pocket payment for covered damages.
11. Please be aware that car insurance attracts an 18% GST (Goods and Services Tax) as of July 1st, 2017.
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It is crucial to promptly follow the steps outlined in our guide when making a car insurance claim after an accident. Being knowledgeable and well-prepared can have a big impact in ensuring you receive the insurance benefits you deserve. Remember to gather necessary documents, stay calm, and avoid unnecessary confrontations. Your insurance company is there to support you during these challenging times, and with the right knowledge and action plan, you can navigate the process confidently and secure the coverage you need.
