How to File a Car Insurance Claim for Own Damage?

How to Claim for Your Car's Own Damage?

Having your own damage car insurance helps you have the peace of mind that your car’s repairs are ensured in case of an accident, without emptying your wallet. However, it is important to understand how to file a car insurance claim for your own damage so you can be compensated conveniently.

1. In case of an own damage claim, first, immediately consider informing the police and the insurance company.
2. Timely informing your insurance company helps them allot a surveyor who is in charge of assessing the loss and damages.
3. Next, make sure your car is in a safe place. If it is too damaged, leave it be at the accident spot and consider doing anything to it only after taking permission from the insurance company and the police.
4. Now, once you get the permission from both authorities, you can remove the vehicle for repairs. If the accident is not too bad, and you are in a condition to drive, you can inform the insurer and take your car to the preferred garage.
5. Furthermore, if your policy offers cashless services as well, consider understanding its benefits. With this feature on board, you do not need to pay out of pocket for the covered damages. Instead, the insurance company will directly pay the workshop.
6. If you opt for a non-network garage, you can pay the bills upfront and then file a claim for reimbursement.
7. However, no matter what the case, informing your insurance company immediately after the accident is a must.

What More Should You Be Prepared for?

Once you inform the police and the insurance company, you might need to be ready to answer a few questions. Having these extra things prepared ensures your claim filing goes smoothly and you face no rejections.

1. Once you contact the insurance company, make sure to be ready with the details of the accident, including the time, location, and date of it, along with the necessary documents.
2. Now, furnish all the necessary documents like the claim form, the driver's license, photographs showcasing the damage, a copy of the FIR filed, and so on.
3. Also, make sure to list the estimated repair cost for the damage to initiate the claim process.
4. Once the authenticity and severity of your claim are verified by the surveyor appointed by the insurance company, the claim may be processed. Now, the insurance company is obligated to help you settle the insured claim within the given timeframe.

What are the Documents Needed to File a Car Insurance Claim?

Here is a list of documents that you need to keep handy to ensure you can easily file your claims without much hassle

1. Claim form
2. A photocopy of the registration certificate of your vehicle
3. Driver’s license
4. A copy of the FIR
5. Policy document
6. Photographs showcasing the damage
7. Estimated cost of repairs

Filing a Car Insurance Claim: What You Need to Know

Here is a list of dos and don'ts and factors to consider while filing a car insurance claim to ensure your claims are conveniently processed and settled.

Consider Reading the Policy Document in Detail

When you receive the policy cover note, you also get the policy document. Make sure to read that carefully. It contains everything, including your policy inclusions, exclusions, and anything specific that can help you figure out the formalities of your claim filing and settlement.

Make Sure to Send Documents to Your Insurer

At a network garage, typically, your insurance company will take over and do the needful. However, after repair at a non-network garage, submitting the documents to your insurer is most important. Have a list of all essential documents, and prepare everything carefully. Make sure everything is right, duly filled, accurate, and is sent to the insurer within the time frame. This helps smooth the claim process.

Concealing Facts is a No, No

You might think that hiding facts in some cases can benefit you in some way. However, it is suggested you do not conceal or exaggerate facts. Try disclosing everything with full clarity and transparency. Concealing or hiding the facts can negatively impact your policy and claim settlement process.

Take Your Time to Sign Final Settlement Papers

Make sure to take your time to sign your settlement papers. Consider not doing anything in a hurry, carefully review your policy and only sign it once you're satisfied with the company's estimated value.

Final Word

Accidents are inevitable and unpredictable; you cannot predict them, but you may surely be prepared. Having car insurance isn't simply about getting repair costs, it is also about being out on the roads with peace of mind that you're financially secured. Getting to know the process and doing everything on your own may seem daunting at first, but it is worth making the effort.

Also, this is where Jio Insurance Broking can come to your help. Not only do we have a variety of insurers and customised products, but much more. You also get specialised guidance from experts who are there for you in your journey, assisting you pre- and post-sales.