How to Claim Car Insurance After an Accident?

According to ETBFSC, almost 95% of motor insurance claims in India are for own-damage, mostly from minor accidents, collisions, or bumps, showing how common everyday accident claims are. A car accident can be a stressful experience. Apart from the shock and damage to your vehicle, you also have to deal with insurance formalities and paperwork. 

The good news? Claiming car insurance doesn’t have to add to your stress—just follow the right steps at the right time.  This guide walks you through exactly how to claim car insurance after an accident, so you can avoid delays, rejections, and unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.

Step-by-Step Guide to Claiming Car Insurance After an Accident

1. Ensure Safety First

After an accident, the first and foremost thing is safety.  Park your vehicle to a safe location.  If possible, turn on the hazard lights and check if anyone is injured. In case of serious injuries happening, immediately contact emergency services before doing anything else.

2. Inform the Police (If Required)

Inform the police immediately in case the accident involves third-party injury or death, major damage, theft, or vandalism. In such cases, filing an FIR is mandatory and may be required by the insurer during the claim process. For minor own-damage claims, police reporting may not be necessary, but it’s advisable to confirm with your insurer.

3. Intimate Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible after the accident, preferably within 24 hours of the accident. You can register your claim either through the insurer’s customer care, website, mobile app, or with the help of your insurance agent. Share basic details such as your policy number, accident date, time, location, and damage details.

4. Proper Documentation of  the Accident and Vehicle Damage

Before moving the vehicle for any sort of repairs, one must collect proper evidence. Take clear photographs or videos of the damaged parts, the accident scene, and the surrounding area. If any third-party vehicle is involved, note down its registration number. It helps avoid disputes during claim assessment.

5. Get the Vehicle Inspected

After claim registration, the insurer appoints a surveyor to inspect the vehicle and assess the damage. Avoid starting repairs before the inspection is completed unless you have approval from the insurer. For cashless claims, inspection is usually done directly at the network garage.

6. Choose the Type of Claim

You can opt for either a cashless or reimbursement claim. If you choose a cashless claim, repairs are carried out at an insurer-authorised network garage, and the insurer settles the approved amount directly with the garage. In a reimbursement claim, you pay for the repairs upfront and later submit the bills for reimbursement.

7. Submit Required Documents

Submit all necessary documents such as the claim form, insurance policy copy, vehicle RC, driving licence, FIR copy if applicable, and repair bills. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays or claim rejection.

8. Claim Settlement

Once the documents are verified, the insurer approves the claim and settles it either by paying the garage directly or reimbursing you. Most car insurance claims are settled within 7 to 15 working days, depending on the insurer and claim type.

Documents Required to Make a Car Insurance Claim

• Duly signed insurance claim form by the policyholder.
• Car insurance policy copy or insurance certificate.
• Vehicle’s Registration Certificate (RC).
• A copy of the FIR, wherever applicable.
• Original repair bills along with payment receipts.
• Driving licence, if requested by the insurer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid delaying claim intimation, starting repairs before inspection, or providing incorrect information. Driving without a valid licence or under the influence of alcohol can also lead to claim rejection.

Final Thoughts

Car accidents are unpredictable, but your insurance claim process doesn’t have to be. By acting quickly, documenting the damage properly, and following insurer guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free car insurance claim experience after an accident.

FAQs

What is the process to claim car insurance after an accident?

Share the car insurance claim form provided by the insurer and submit them with all the required documents like the FIR and the evidence of the accident. You can also share the contact details of the witnesses.

Is fir mandatory for all motor claims?

An FIR for a car insurance claim is definitely mandatory in cases of theft, major accidents, or third-party liability claims. However, for minor car damage like dents or scratches, an FIR is usually not required.

How to Show You Were Not at Fault in an Accident?

• Collect proper evidence from the accident site, as proper documentation helps establish responsibility.
• Speak to and note down details of any witnesses present.
• Obtain a copy of the police report for official records.
• Seek medical attention to document any injuries.
• Consult a legal expert for guidance, if needed.

Do we have any time limit to file an insurance claim after an accident?

While Comprehensive car insurance policies do not have formal deadlines, lodging insurance claims as soon as possible may help to avoid complications, such as difficulties in verifying details.

What happens if both parties are at fault?

If both parties share blame, they should be held accountable for their percentage of liability. The at-fault party will also be expected to cover their portion of damages. However, there is a chance that a civil claim could be brought against you or other involved parties.