You’re driving smoothly and suddenly there is an accident. Cross your fingers that it is a minor dent; maybe something more serious. Either way, the first thought that strikes your mind (after ensuring everyone is safe) is: How to claim auto insurance?
The filing of a motor insurance policy claim process tends to overwhelm anyone, but did you know it doesn’t have to be so? The same applies whether the damage is merely a scratch or if it is serious damage. A claim is filed correctly because it leads to trouble-free payment, not unnecessary delays.
Step 1: Assess the Situation and Inform your Insurer
First things first: Stay calm. Accidents can be stressful, panicking doesn’t help. Check yourself and others for injuries, and call for help if needed.
Once that is done, inform your car insurance provider immediately. Most insurers have a 24/7 helpline or apps to start your auto insurance claim procedure right there.
The sooner you report, the better. Delays can lead to unnecessary complications or even denial of claims.
Step 2: Collect Proof and Necessary Documents
Just like your identity, your insurer will require verification of witness, which you might provide in the form of:
- Pictures and videos of the accident scene, damages, and any third-party vehicles involved.
- Your insurance claim paperwork policy copy (or at least policy number).
- FIR or police report, if needed especially for major accidents, theft, or third-party damages.
- Witness details (if anyone saw what happened).
Step 3: Submission of the Claim Form Along with Required Documents
Your insurer will provide an online or physical form to fill out and submit for a claim. You will then have to submit all the packets required to file car insurance claim, which usually include:
- A registration certificate (RC) of the car.
- Your driving license.
- Repair estimate from a garage.
- The FIR copy (if it is applicable).
Incorrect or incomplete paperwork is one of the top reasons for claim denial, so make sure everything is accurate.
Step 4: Get Vehicle Inspected
The next step in the claim process is having the insurer appoint a surveyor to inspect the car before the claim is approved. Some of the insurers allow for the video inspections over the apps, making the inspection process quick and easy.
STEP 5: Settlement of Claim and Repair Process
After your auto insurance claim procedure has been approved, your vehicle will either be repaired at one of our partner garages (cashless) or the amount approved for reimbursement will be paid to you after you submit your repair bills.
Be Wise to Prevent Claim Rejection Reasons: What Not to Do
Car claim processes are often rejected for minor lapses. Here are things to avoid:
- Driving without a license or valid insurance
- Not informing the insurer of modifications to the car
- Delay in informing about the claim intimation beyond the permissible time
- Driving under the influence on the night of the accident
- Giving misleading information or false information
If you follow these steps scrupulously, your auto insurance claim procedure will become a walk in the park. Now you know what to do, and the motor insurance claim process will never give you a sleepless night!
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