So your car has been damaged due to an accident, and you want to know how to file an insurance claim to cover the repair costs.
Generally, own damage insurance claims need to be filed within a particular time frame as late applications can lead to your insurer rejecting them. You also need to know how to navigate the insurer’s claims process and what documents you must present to your insurer.
Read on as we explain these aspects to ensure you get properly compensated for your losses and how you can get the most value out of your comprehensive car insurance policy when filing a claim.
What Is Own Damage Insurance For Cars?
Own damage insurance for cars, as its name suggests, is a car insurance policy that covers damages caused to your vehicle – regardless of who was at fault. This includes damages from natural disasters, vandalism and theft.
This cover can be bought separately with your third-party car insurance policy, or you can also get a comprehensive plan as it combines third-party insurance and own damage cover into one plan.
You still need to pay a compulsory deductible for claims under this cover, but it is worth getting if you own a new car or live in an accident-prone zone.
Online Claims Process For Own Damage Car Insurance: A Step By Step Guide
Immediately after the accident, you must inform your insurer as soon as possible. This can be done through their website or by calling their toll-free number, also available on their website.
Here is how you can initiate own damage insurance claim with your insurer:
- Visit your insurance provider’s official website and go to their claims processing page.
- Initiate your claim by filling out and submitting your claims form to the insurer.
- Upload the necessary documents like your policy certificate, car registration certificate, driver’s licence copy, etc.
- In case of theft, you must notify your local police stating and get a copy of the FIR which must be submitted to your insurer.
- In case of an accident, you will need the registration number of the car that caused the accident and the licence number of the driver involved in the accident.
- After filing your own damage insurance claim and submitting your documents, your insurer will assign an insurance agent. They will further evaluate the case and guide you through the process.
- You will be reimbursed for the repair costs once your insurer has verified all your submitted documents. This entire process usually takes 2 – 3 days.
Documents Required For An Own Damage Insurance Claim
- A copy of your car insurance policy.
- A copy of the FIR report submitted to the police (if required).
- Duly filled and signed claim form (can be downloaded from the insurer’s website).
- A copy of your car registration certificate.
- A copy of the valid driving licence.
- Details about repair estimates (Bills or receipts).
- In case of physical injuries, an original copy of your medical receipts.
- Original receipt copies of any other expenses incurred.
What To Remember When Filing Your Car’s Own Damage Insurance Claim?
- Do not move your vehicle from the accident spot without permission from the police or your insurer.
- When it is time to get your car repaired, get it done at a network garage, as it will be easier to settle your bills there, and it makes you eligible for cashless claims.
- Note the damages caused to your car and any injuries caused to you or any passengers with you at the time of the accident.
- Keep all of the bills and receipts for expenses related to the accident. This includes receipts for car repairs and medical bills due to any injuries.
- Register your own damage insurance claim within the time period stipulated by your insurer.
- Note down the number and colour of the vehicle that was involved in the accident, the driver’s number and the contact information of all witnesses present during the accident.
- If the accident has only resulted in minor damages like scratches, try to pay them out of pocket, as raising a claim will negate your accrued No Claim Bonus discount.
Conclusion
Own damage insurance for cars offers financial security during accidents and other unforeseen events. While it does come with a slightly higher premium, it is still worth buying, as it enhances your base coverage as helps save money in the long run.
Most reputed insurers like Tata AIG offer own damage car insurance with their comprehensive plans and as a separate cover. So before your next purchase, compare car insurance plans online, as it will give you a better understanding of the coverage you will receive from your chosen plans.