Following an accident, a car owner has two options for filing a claim. Depending on the extent of the accident, it could be a third-party claim or an own-damage claim. It's easy to file claims in both cases. Continue reading to learn how to file a claims in these two situations.
Third Party Claim
If another vehicle owner is responsible for the damage to your car, you can make a third-party claim against them. If you are unable to work as a result of the accident, you will be entitled to seek compensation for medical costs, collateral damage, and the loss of an earning.
If, on the other hand, your car collides with another vehicle, you can file a claim with your insurer for damages and liabilities incurred by you to a third party.
Own Damage Claim
In the event of a failure or harm to your vehicle as a result of an accident, you can also make an own damage claim. Only comprehensive insurance policies are available for this claim, and the damages must be checked in order to receive only compensation.
Steps to Make a Car Insurance Claim After an Accident
To file a car insurance claim, follow the steps outlined below:
- Obtain the insurance information for the vehicle that caused the damage to you and vice versa.
- Calling the insurance agent and telling them of the damages as soon as possible.
- If you are the claimant, you can file a third-party claim or a claim for your own damages.
- Notifying the police and receiving a FIR
- In the FIR, record the description of your vehicle, the driver, and any witnesses.
- Initiating a claim with the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal in the state where the accident occurred.
- After notifying the auto insurance provider of the claim, you must file a claim with the aid of certain supporting documents, which can be included in the list below.
Documents Required for Making a Car Insurance Claim
You must send the following list of documents to your auto insurance agent, failing which your claims, whether third-party or own-damage, will not be processed. These documents contain the following:
- Copy of your insurance policy
- Copy of FIR
- Copy of driving license
- Copy of the Registration Certificate of your car
- Duly filled in Claims Form
- Estimates repairs
- Original documents of other expenses incurred
- Medical documents in case of bodily injuries
Takeaway
These are the steps to file a claim with your car insurance provider after an accident.If it's a third-party or own-damage allegation, the procedure must be supported by the appropriate evidence and paperwork in order for the claim to be processed.Accidents can happen anywhere and at any moment, so it's important to protect your car with a car insurance policy to protect yourself and your vehicle from unforeseeable damages like these.
