Tips to File Your Car Insurance Claim Correctly
Want to make a motor insurance claim, but not sure how it works? Know the right process for claiming car insurance online.
When driving on roads, situations can become quite rough sometimes and can cause challenges as well as accidents. When unexpected happens, it is important to have the right car insurance. However, having a policy is only beneficial if you have the right knowledge of how to get the claim processed. The lack of familiarity, nitty-gritty of the technical aspects, and the sheer panic make the whole process of insurance claim filing a nightmare.
Today, let us understand how to successfully file a car insurance claim, how to maximize the chances of a successful outcome and what to avoid during the process. Understand the important tips mentioned in this article and understand what to do and what not to do during the car insurance claim process.
Useful Tips to help you file a Car insurance claim Correctly
Collect all relevant information: If your car was hit by another person’s car, get the car’s plate number and the driver’s license information (that is, if he hasn’t run away). You can then decide whether you want to claim your own insurance (if the policy covers it) or put a claim on the other person’s car insurance. Assess the damages you’ve incurred even if the accident did not involve a third person.
Nature of the claim: If a third party is involved, it’s always recommended that you file a claim on their insurance coverage instead of your own. This way, your No Claim Bonus remains intact and you can keep being paid the premium discounts for subsequent years.
Notify the insurer: This is the most essential step. Notify your insurer about the accident, the damages and the consequent claim you’re going to raise (if you choose to claim your own insurance). Car insurance companies have a certain time window within which they have to be informed about the accident, or else your claim gets rejected. You definitely want to steer clear of that technicality.
File an FIR: It is highly recommended to file a First Information Report (FIR) with the police if a third party is involved and you have planned to file a claim on their insurance. An FIR is essential for the smooth processing of your claim with the insurer.
No-Trace Certificate: In case of a car theft, make sure to obtain a No-Trace Certificate (which is official proof that a stolen car couldn’t be traced) issued by the police after filing an FIR. This document is essential to get your insurance claim settled in case your car is stolen.
Points To Remember
- Do not file a claim for minor damages and pay the damages from your pocket. By not claiming small damages, you can keep the NCB Intact and will help in reducing the premium at the time of renewal.
- Collect all the documents from the whole process including fir, witnesses and more and keep them safe for the time when the insurer ask, so that you can produce them and get the claim settled easily.
Conclusion
Adhering to the above-mentioned points can ensure a successful claim settlement for your car insurance. While usually individuals get their claims settled offline, you can settle them online as well. In case your claim gets rejected, you can always connect with InsuranceDekho's Customer Support and Claim assistance team for all the guidance you need.
The last and the simplest point (although all of these points were simple) is to religiously follow up your car insurance claims with the company for a speedy settlement procedure.
Also Read:
What To Do If Your Car Catches Fire?
Benefits of Multi-Year Car Insurance in the Long Run
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.
