Do’s And Don'ts While Filing A Car Insurance Claim

Driving a car and driving long distances can be great fun but spoils can be played by an unfortunate event or accident. This includes your car is damaged or stuck in a water-logged area by a falling tree. You can file an insurance claim and collect the costs for the losses if such incidents occur. However, it may not be as easy as it might seem to some people filing a claim; it demands that you follow certain processes. If you do not have previous experience with filing a car insurance claim, it helps you to know what you do and don't know.

Things You Should Do When You Claim Your Car Insurance

The following are the things you need to do when you are filing a car insurance claim settlement-

• Filing An FIR 

One of the first things you have to do when you have a car crash is to report the matter immediately to the police and report an FIR (First Information Report). Initiating the settlement process, all insurance companies request a copy of the FIR. In the event of a road accident, you must file an FIR that results in a third-party physical injury or death. Also, if your car is stolen, an FIR is obligatory. 

• Tell The Insurer

It is crucial to inform the insurance company of the accident just as it is important to file an FIR. Experts suggest that within seven days of the incident, you must report the accident to the insurer. If you don't, your claim will be denied, there is a considerable risk. Certain insurance companies can report the occurrence up to 48 hours in a smaller window. Whether you have the best car insurance policy, informing the insurance company so quickly as possible is key to getting the settlement approved.

• Documents To Take

You must send all the essential claim documents to the insurance company to initiate the auto insurance claim process. You should request the insurer for the necessary documents for the settlement and ask for the time you need to arrange for it. Most insurance companies typically require the following documents to commence the settlement process:

• Form for Insurance Claim
• Insurance policy copy
• RC copy (Registration Certificate
• Copy of the licence valid

Things You Should Not Do When Claiming Car Insurance 

The following are the things that you should avoid doing when you file for a car insurance claim- 

• Never Run From The Spot of Accident

One of the most common mistakes that people make that results in the rejection of their car insurance is to flee the accident site. Experts suggest that you should never get away and not move the vehicle from the scene of the accident. If the damage to your car is. 

• Do Not Hide Facts

Frequently, during the accident investigation, people do not reveal the accident in full or attempt to hide certain things. Failure, to tell the truth, can either lead to a rejection of the claim because of unclear information or can invalidate your policy.

• Don't Make Up For The Settlement From Insurance

Often the third party participating in the accident can offer to settle the contract without notifying the insurance company or the policy. You should not settle for such offers, as it is illegal not to inform the authorities concerned about the accident. Take the legal path, file it and file an FIR. This helps you file the claim and get adequate compensation.

Take Away

It may seem complicated to claim your car insurance, but it is critical to follow the proper protocols at every stage to ensure your safety and not to refuse your claim. Make sure you do not retain your insurance company information when you file a claim and regularly renew the policy to prevent legal complications.

Also Read: 

All About Car Insurance Frauds In India

How to Cancel A Car Insurance Policy and Receive A Refund?

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.