Bike Insurance Claim

How to File Bike Insurance Claim?

Filing a bike insurance claim in India is a structured process that ensures you receive financial assistance for repairs or losses resulting from accidents, theft, or third-party liability. Whether you opt for a cashless or reimbursement settlement, timely action and correct documentation are the keys to a successful claim.

Understanding the Bike Insurance Claim Process

There are two primary ways an insurance company settles your claim:

1. Cashless Bike Insurance Claim Process

This is the most convenient method. You take your bike to an authorised network garage of the insurer.

• How it works: The insurance company pays the repair costs directly to the garage.
• Out-of-pocket costs: You only pay for the mandatory/voluntary deductibles and any non-covered parts (like plastic or rubber parts, unless you have a Zero-Depreciation add-on).

2. Reimbursement Bike Insurance Claim Process

If you choose a garage outside the insurer’s network, you must follow this process.

• How it works: You pay the full repair bill upfront, then submit the original invoices and receipts to the insurer.
• Settlement: The insurer verifies the bills and transfers the eligible amount to your bank account, usually within 7–15 working days.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Bike Insurance Claim

How to File a Bike Insurance Claim After an Accident

• Inform the Insurer: Notify your insurance provider immediately (usually within 24–48 hours).
• File an FIR: For major accidents or those involving third-party injuries, lodge a First Information Report at the nearest police station.
• Surveyor Inspection: The insurer will appoint a surveyor to assess the damage. Do not start repairs before the inspection.
• Repair & Settlement: Move the bike to a garage. In a cashless scenario, the surveyor approves the estimate, and the insurer pays the garage. For reimbursement, pay the bill and file a claim later.

How to File a Bike Insurance Claim for Theft

• Lodge an FIR: This is mandatory for theft. Obtain a copy of the FIR immediately.
• Notify the Insurer & RTO: Inform your insurance company and the Regional Transport Office (RTO) about the theft.
• Non-Traceable Certificate: If the police cannot find the bike after 30–90 days, they issue a "Non-Traceable Certificate."
• Final Settlement: Submit the certificate and all bike keys to the insurer. They will pay the Insured Declared Value (IDV) of the bike.

How to File a Third-Party Bike Insurance Claim

• Exchange Details: If you are at fault, give your insurance details to the victim. If you are the victim, get the other party's details.
• File an FIR: Mandatory for third-party liability claims.
• MACT Filing: These claims are settled via the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT). The court decides the compensation amount, which the insurer then pays.

Common Reasons for Bike Insurance Claim Rejection

1. Expired Policy: Attempting to claim after the policy has lapsed.
2. Invalid Driving License: The rider did not have a valid license at the time of the accident.
3. Drunk Driving: Claims are rejected if the rider was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
4. Delayed Intimation: Failing to inform the insurer within the stipulated window (usually 48 hours).
5. Unauthorised Repairs: Getting the bike fixed before the surveyor's inspection.
6. Commercial Use: Using a private bike for commercial delivery or taxi services.