📌 Key Steps at a Glance
- 🚨 Ensure Safety – Move to safe location
- 📞 Notify Authorities – Call police if needed
- 📱 Inform Insurer – Immediate intimation
- 📸 Document Evidence – Photos/videos
- 🏢 File FIR – For damages >₹50,000
- 🔍 Surveyor Inspection – Usually within 24 hrs
- 🛠️ Repair Approval – Network garage preferred
- 💸 Claim Settlement – 7-15 working days
⏱️ Critical Timelines
| Action | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Inform insurer | Within 24 hours |
| File FIR | Within 48-72 hours |
| Submit documents | Within 7 days |
| Final settlement | 15-30 days |
🚗 Step 1: Immediate Post-Accident Actions
A. For Minor Accidents (No Injuries)
- Turn on hazard lights
- Use reflective triangles (mandatory as per new rules)
- Exchange details with other party:
- Name
- Contact
- Insurance info
- Vehicle registration
B. For Major Accidents (Injuries/Death)
- Call 108 for medical emergency
- Contact local police (100)
- Do NOT move vehicles until police arrive
- Get medico-legal certificate if injured
📄 Step 2: Documentation Checklist
Mandatory Documents
- Duly filled claim form
- Copy of insurance policy
- Driving license (valid)
- RC copy
- FIR copy (for claims >₹50,000)
- Repair estimates
Visual Evidence
- Take 8-10 photos showing:
- Overall accident scene
- All vehicles involved
- License plates
- Damage close-ups
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs
💻 Step 3: Claim Intimation Process
Online Notification
- Log in to insurer’s portal/app
- Select “New Claim”
- Upload accident photos
- Get reference number
Offline Notification
- Call toll-free number (keep handy):
- New India: 1800 209 1414
- ICICI Lombard: 1800 2666
- HDFC Ergo: 1800 2666
🛠️ Step 4: Repair Options
Network Garage Advantages
- Cashless claims
- Guaranteed workmanship
- Direct insurer billing
Non-Network Garage Process
- Get 2 repair estimates
- Submit for approval
- Pay upfront
- Get reimbursement
💰 Claim Settlement Scenarios
| Damage Type | Settlement Time | Payment Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Minor (₹10k-50k) | 7-10 days | Cashless/Direct |
| Major (₹50k-2L) | 15-20 days | Cheque/NEFT |
| Total Loss | 30-45 days | IDV Payment |
⚠️ 5 Reasons Claims Get Rejected
- Driving without valid license
- Drunk driving cases
- Late intimation (>72 hrs)
- Missing FIR for major damage
- Existing damage not declared
🚨 Special Cases
Hit-and-Run Claims
- File police complaint immediately
- Claim from Motor Insurance Bureau (up to ₹2L)
- Requires:
- FIR copy
- Newspaper ad (if vehicle unknown)
Third-Party Claims
- Can take 6-12 months
- Requires court judgment
- Minimum compensation:
- Death: ₹5L
- Permanent disability: ₹5L
- Injury: ₹50k
🔍 FAQs
Q: Can I claim if accident was my fault?
A: Yes, but affects No Claim Bonus (NCB). Third-party claims require court process.
Q: How long does surveyor take to inspect?
A: Typically 24-48 hrs in cities, 72 hrs in rural areas.
Q: What if repair cost exceeds insured declared value?
A: Insurer will pay up to IDV. You bear additional costs.
Q: Can I change garages after approval?
A: Yes, but requires fresh approval and may delay claim.
Q: Is towing covered in insurance?
A: Yes, up to ₹1,500-2,000 in most policies.
💡 Pro Tips for Faster Settlement
- Use insurer’s app for real-time tracking
- Follow up every 3 days after document submission
- Keep digital copies of all paperwork
- For delays, email grievance officer (details in policy)
📞 Need Help?
For complex claims, consult our insurance advisors:
📞 Claim Helpline: +91-XXXXXX-XXXX
📧 Email: claims@bestpolicyfinder.com