19th March 2024
Auto

Do’s And Don’ts You Should Follow When Filing a Car Insurance Claim

Having a valid car insurance policy is an essential prerequisite for a safe and responsible driving experience for the owner of a four-wheeler. The motor laws applicable in India have made it mandatory for all car owners to have at least a third-party coverage policy for their four-wheelers. However, it is advisable to purchase a comprehensive car insurance policy to safeguard yourself, your car, and the concerned third party against any damage or injuries caused by an accident or any natural calamity or wilful acts like theft, riots etc.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident and need to file a claim, do not feel stressful. The process doesn’t have to be as difficult as it seems. If you know what steps to take, filing an auto insurance claim won’t seem so overwhelming. Let this step-by-step guide on how to file an auto insurance claim ease your mind and get you back on the road even sooner!

What are the Types of Car Insurance?

Therefore, you should ensure that you purchase a comprehensive car insurance policy for your new car as soon as you buy the vehicle. Furthermore, you must remember to renew car insurance policy on a timely basis. 

Several insurance companies in India let customers buy car insurance online in simple steps. You can purchase a Tata AIG new car insurance policy online or renew your existing policy by following a simple and safe process wherein you can easily get a quote for your car insurance policy. 

Do’s and Don’ts You Should Follow When Filing a Car Insurance Claim 

Car insurance is an agreement between an insurance company and the owner of a four-wheeler to safeguard the latter against any damage caused by any unforeseen events on the road either while driving or when parked. Therefore, if such an event occurs, you must ensure that you file your car insurance claim in a systematic manner according to the rules prescribed by the insurance provider. 

Steps for Filing a Car Accident Insurance Claim

Here is what you should do when you are filing a car insurance claim. 

  1. Inform the police in case of an accident 

If your car is involved in an accident, you must inform the police immediately. Furthermore, it is mandatory to file a ‘First Information Report’ (FIR) to seek a car accident insurance claim. 

  • Record important evidence of the accident and the damage caused to your car 

An important thing to remember in the wake of a car accident is to clearly record the photographic and video evidence of the damage caused to your car as a result of the said accident. You should also record evidence of any injuries sustained by you and the affected third party during the accident. 

  • Inform your insurance company at the earliest 

Remember to inform your insurance provider about an accident involving your car as soon as possible. There is a time window defined by each insurance company for intimation and you must adhere to that. 

  1. Collect witness-related information 

If any witnesses to the accident are willing to help you strengthen your car insurance claim, you must note their respective names and contact details so as to be able to contact them while filling your claim form. 

  1. Study your car insurance policy 

You must revisit your car insurance policy in a comprehensive manner and take note of the different clauses that you should adhere to in order to file a successful car accident insurance claim.

  • Provide all the relevant details to your insurance provider honestly

Include all the necessary details about the accident in your car accident insurance claim and be completely honest with your insurance provider about the information given. The concealment of any material details while filing a car insurance claim if discovered later could likely lead to its rejection. 

  1. Get legal help quickly if required 

It is advisable to consult your lawyer before filing a car accident insurance claim if there are certain legal issues that need to be clarified before you complete the necessary formalities in the claim process. 

Here is What You Should Not do While Filing a Car Insurance Claim 

  1. Do not violate the country’s motor laws 

You must follow all the applicable motor laws while driving, including having a valid driving licence, a valid insurance policy for your four-wheeler, driving within the permissible speed limits, and not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Do not run away from the scene of the accident or fail to inform the police 

It is important to follow the legal procedure after an accident and running away from the scene is unacceptable. You must inform the police, follow the due process of the law, and inform your car insurance company in time. 

  1. Do not panic

Remember to stay calm in the aftermath of an accident and not make any irrational moves. It is also important to ensure the safety and well-being of any affected third party. 

  • Do not try to influence the surveyor

When the insurance company has appointed a surveyor to assess the damage before the repair commences, you should cooperate fully and not try to influence him/her with inducements or uncouth behaviour.

  1. Do not accept a final settlement checking the particulars 

You must study the claim settlement document received from your insurance company thoroughly before accepting any final payment for your car accident insurance claim. Furthermore, do not sign any document on the estimation of the claim amount without ascertaining its accuracy and consulting your lawyer if required. 

Conclusion 

By following the do’s and don’ts mentioned above, you can file a successful car accident insurance claim. Remember to follow the required procedures and laws and not conceal any material information.