Step-2
Video link नीचे है 👇👇
Owning a car in India comes with comfort, convenience, and, of course, responsibility. While car insurance provides financial protection against accidents, theft, and damages, it’s equally important to know how to file a car insurance claim correctly. Many people make mistakes during the claim process — leading to unnecessary delays or even rejections. To avoid this, let’s go through the step-by-step process of filing a car insurance claim in India, along with essential tips to ensure a smooth experience.
Types of Car Insurance Claims
Before understanding the process, it’s important to know that there are two main types of car insurance claims:
1. Cashless Claim
In a cashless claim, you don’t have to pay for the repairs upfront. You can take your car to a network garage (authorized by your insurer), and the insurer will directly settle the bill with the garage.
2. Reimbursement Claim
If you get your car repaired at a non-network garage, you’ll first pay the repair bill yourself. Later, you can submit the required documents and bills to your insurer for reimbursement.
Step-by-Step Process to File a Car Insurance Claim
Step 1: Inform Your Insurance Company
The first and most crucial step is to inform your insurance provider immediately after an accident, theft, or any damage. Most insurers have a 24x7 customer helpline and mobile apps for quick reporting. Delaying this step may result in claim rejection, so always report the incident as soon as possible.
Tip: Note down important details like date, time, and location of the incident.
Step 2: File an FIR (If Necessary)
In cases involving theft, major accidents, injury, or third-party damage, filing a First Information Report (FIR) at the nearest police station is mandatory. Keep a copy of the FIR — your insurance company will need it during claim assessment.
Step 3: Take Photographs of the Damage
Take clear pictures and videos of your car’s damage, license plate, and the accident spot before moving the vehicle. This acts as strong evidence when your insurer investigates the claim.
Step 4: Submit the Required Documents
To process your claim, you’ll need to provide certain documents to the insurer. These typically include: Copy of the car insurance policy Copy of the FIR (if applicable) Driving license of the person driving at the time of the incident
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC).Photographs of the damaged car Repair bills and payment receipts (for reimbursement claims) Make sure all the information is accurate and matches your policy details.
Step 5: Vehicle Inspection by the Surveyor
Once you register the claim, the insurance company will send a surveyor to inspect the damage and prepare an assessment report. For cashless claims, this usually happens quickly — often within 24 to 48 hours. After the surveyor’s approval, the garage can start the repair work.
Step 6: Repair the Vehicle
If you’ve chosen a network garage, the insurer will handle the payment directly. If not, you’ll need to pay the bills yourself first and then apply for reimbursement with all necessary receipts and documents.
Step 7: Claim Settlement
After verifying all documents and the survey report, the insurer will process the claim. In cashless claims, payment is made directly to the garage. In reimbursement claims, the approved amount is transferred to your bank account. This completes your claim process.
Important Tips for a Smooth Claim Process
1. Never drive away after an accident without collecting evidence or informing the insurer.
2. Do not get repairs done before the surveyor inspects the vehicle.
3. Always carry valid documents — driving license, RC, and insurance copy.
4. Avoid providing false information — it can lead to claim rejection.
5. Renew your car insurance on time — expired policies are ineligible for claims.
Video Link👍
Conclusion
Filing a car insurance claim in India is simple if you follow the right steps. Timely reporting, proper documentation, and honest communication with your insurer are the keys to a hassle-free process.
Whether it’s a small dent or a major accident, understanding how the claim process works ensures that you can recover financially without stress.
So, the next time you face an unfortunate situation on the road, stay calm, follow the steps above, and let your car insurance policy do its job — protecting you and your vehicle when you need it most.