Is Damage from Fire Covered Under your Car Insurance?
Does car insurance provide compensation for fire? Yes, but there is more to it. Read this article to find out.
A car is a prized possession for all of us. It is a major purchase, essential for our daily life and we also get attached to it. To keep our cars safe and in good condition, most of us go to great lengths. One way of giving your car and in turn you added protection is purchasing car insurance. It provides you with compensation in case of a mishap, giving you peace of mind as well as stability. Mishaps can come in many forms, a car may catch fire. Have you wondered if your insurance will cover it? Well, it does, read this article to know everything about it.
Does Car Insurance Cover Fire Damage?
The answer is yes it does. However, this coverage is not available for a third-party car insurance policy. Only a comprehensive car insurance plan or a standalone own-damage plan will compensate for losses related to fire damage. There are a number of scenarios where car fires become a possibility. For example, a short circuit in the garage, or overheating of the engine, a car accident, vandalism or even mechanical issues. Hence, even though it may be an unsettling thought it makes sense for you to purchase car insurance that will protect you from the same.
What To Do If a Car is Damaged Due To A Fire?
In case of a mishap of this sort, your safety and that others around you are first. If the fire remains active after safety precautions have been taken it is best to take the prescribed steps for fire accidents or call the nearest fire station. When possible, take pictures and/or videos showing the damage clearly. If however, it consumes the entire car, moves the scrap to a no-movement zone. Make sure to inform the car insurance company as soon as possible. Depending on your situation you will need an FIR and other relevant documents.
What Documents are required for Filing for Claim?
- FIR from the relevant police authority
- Car Insurance Policy
- Fire Brigade Report, if any
- Newspaper cuttings if the damage occurred due to vandalism
- Car repair bills
- Claim Form
The documents may differ slightly due to the situation and/or the requirements of the insurance company.
What is the Process for Filing a Claim for Fire Damages?
The following is a guide for collecting for claim for fire damages to your car:
Step 1: Contact your insurance company at the earliest.
Step 2: As you state your intention to raise a claim, the insurance company will let you know the required documents according to your situation.
Step 3: Provide your policy details and the required documents.
Step 4: The insurance company will appoint a surveyor who will inspect the damaged car before ascertaining the damage done to the car.
Step 5; The surveyor’s report will determine whether the insurance company will pay the claim and how much.
Also Read
What Is the Importance of Third Party Cover in Car Insurance?
What is Roadside Assistance Cover in Car Insurance?
Takeaway
In a nutshell, though our cars catching on fire is an unnerving thought it is not entirely unreal. Having insurance to deal with it is the prudent choice. Moreover, with a standalone, or comprehensive policy there are a number add-ons that you can select to provide extra protection from fire damages, such as engine cover, zero depreciation cover and roadside assistance cover.
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.
