Dos and don'ts while Filing your Motor Insurance Claim

Your vehicle is exposed to dangers and risks every time you take it out on the road. Vehicle insurance, is thus, the much-needed safety net to your prized possession.Buying insurance is often easy, but the tricky part arises when you have to file the claim. Make a mistake, and there is a good chance of claim rejection. That’s why you should know what to do and not do while filing the claim.Here is a list of dos and don’ts to follow:

• File an FIR: Insurance companies would not settle some claims if you don’t produce an FIR report. While for minor accidents, you may not need to file an FIR, an incident of theft or an accident causing death or serious damage/injury to the parties involved, will need to be reported to the local police authorities.
• Call Your Insurer: As soon as you are involved in an accident, and you are sure that you need to file a claim, you must call your insurer and inform them of the damage. Most insurers will give you a window ranging from 48 hours - 7 days beyond which you cannot file a claim.
• Take Photographs: For own-damages to the car, usually, the insurance inspector will take photos before approving the claim. However, it is essential that you also take pictures at the site of the accident to ensure there are no discrepancies in the future. Take photos of your damaged vehicle, your injuries, the accident scene, the other party, their injuries, etc.

• Do Not Continue Driving the Vehicle: While your insurance policy should cover you against accidental damages, any damage caused consequentially because of you continuing to drive the vehicle is not covered. Thus, either ask your insurance company to tow the vehicle or take it to the nearest authorized garage.
• Do Not Lose Patience: Dealing with the accident and then filing a claim can be quite stressing. However, it is essential not to lose your cool and keep your calm throughout the process. Your insurer will mostly cover for the damages to the extent of the policy provided you are able to furnish all the relevant details and documents.
• Do Not Avoid the Police: If the accident that you are involved in has led to severe own-damage or third-party damage, it is essential not to run away from the accident scene and dial 100 to call the police at the scene immediately. If for some reason you are not able to stop on the road, reach the nearest police station and report the accident immediately.
• Do Not Sign Anywhere Without understanding: While filing a claim and taking the settlement, ensure that you read all the documents carefully before you sign anywhere. Take your time to understand the procedure on how to claim vehicle insurance and proceed once you are sure.

An accident is unfortunate and a cause of concern. Your insurance claim can offer some reprieve in such a grim situation. So, follow every Dos and avoid the don'ts, so there are no loopholes while filing your motor insurance .

The information contained herein is generic in nature and is meant for educational purposes only. Nothing here is to be construed as an investment or financial or taxation advice nor to be considered as an invitation or solicitation or advertisement for any financial product. Readers are advised to exercise discretion and should seek independent professional advice prior to making any investment decision in relation to any financial product. Aditya Birla Capital Group is not liable for any decision arising out of the use of this information.