Top 6 Questions to Ask Before Filing a Motor Insurance Claim

According to the Motor Vehicle Act 1988, it is crucial for bike owners in India to file a motor insurance claim. So, if you have bought a bike recently, you must opt for the same as it can provide crucial financial protection in case of accidents or damages.

However, before filing for this insurance, you must learn whatquestions to ask before filing a motor claim process. for a quick and hassle-free settlement experience. Ensuring that you are well-informed about the necessary information will streamline the process and help you make the most of the financial protection your insurance provides.

Keep scrolling to learn what to ask.

6 Questions to Ask Before Filing a Motor Insurance Claim

Here is a list of questions to ask before filing a motor claim.

1. What Damage Occurred During the Accident?

One of the most essential things before filing a motor insurance claim is to determine whether you caused damage to someone else’s property or if someone else damaged your vehicle, as this affects who should file the claim. If you are at fault, share a copy of your motor insurance policy with the third party, allowing them to make a third-party claim.

If your vehicle is the one damaged, you will be the one claiming third-party insurance from the other party’s policy. During such situations, note down all the damages and injuries with photos. You should also write down the names and phone numbers of witnesses as it can be helpful afterwards. These pieces of evidence play a vital role in determining the amount and validity of your claim.

2. Did You Wait for the Surveyor to Assess the Accident Site?

For a smooth insurance claim process, you need to tell your insurance company about the accident right away. If you take your vehicle to the garage for repairs before the surveyor checks it, there will be chances of denial of your claim. So, wait until the surveyor arrives.

They might ask for documents like your policy number and bike registration. Give these to the surveyor, who will take pictures and videos of the damage and injuries. They will send these to the insurance company. Once you get the okay, you can take your bike to the garage for repairs and claim settlement.

3. What are the Documents Required While Filing a Motor Insurance Claim?

When preparing to file a motor insurance claim with your insurance company, you will need to provide several essential documents to ensure a smooth process. These documents include:

• Your vehicle’s registration certificate.
• A completed and signed claim form.
• Your valid driving license.
• A copy of the FIR from the incident.
• The first two pages of your policy document.

If you caused the damages, the third party can also submit additional documents such as photographs, proof of fault, medical bills, repair bills, and surveyor’s reports. These documents are essential for determining the validity and amount of your claim.

4. Will My Insurance Cover My Medical Bills After a Bike Accident?

After a bike accident, it is essential to consider if your insurance will pay for your medical expenses. If you have medical payment coverage included in your bike insurance, your policy can help cover some of the medical costs resulting from the accident.

Another option is to rely on your health insurance to cover medical bills. However, the primary way to have your medical expenses paid after a bike accident is typically by filing a claim against the driver responsible for the accident.

5. How Can I Secure the Best Rate for My Two-Wheeler Insurance?

The amount you pay for your two-wheeler insurance depends on the coverage options you select. While the rates for Third-Party Liability Insurance are regulated by the IRDA, opting for comprehensive coverage means your premiums will vary based on coverage and eligible discounts. To ensure the best rate:

• Choose the Right IDV: Remember, a higher IDV means a higher premium, so decide accordingly.
• Use No Claim Bonus: You can get up to around 50% discount on your own damage premium over five consecutive claim-free years. Avoid making small claims to benefit from this bonus.
• Install Security Devices: Approved anti-theft devices make you eligible for an extra discount.
• Join AAI: Being a member of the Automobile Association of India (AAI) qualifies you for an additional discount.

6. Did You File an FIR Regarding the Incident?

If your bike is damaged in an accident or stolen, you can claim insurance for it. However, first, you need to go to the nearest police station and report the incident by filing an FIR. After you file the FIR, you will receive a charge sheet which proves the damage or loss. You have to submit this charge sheet when filing a bike insurance claim. Without an FIR, your insurance claim would not be complete and would not succeed.

Things to Check When Buying Bike Insurance for Hassle-free Claims

While you need to know what to ask while filing a motor claim, ensuring a few things right when you buy bike insurance for convenient claims later is essential. Check them out below:

• No-Claim Bonus: Check the NCB benefits offered by the insurer. It is a reward for not making any claims during the policy period and can significantly discount the premium during renewal.
• Claim Settlement Ratio: Check the claim settlement ratio of the insurance provider. The higher the ratio, the more the likelihood of your claims being settled.
• Network Garages: Check the list of network garages associated with the insurance provider. Opting for a network garage can streamline the cashless claim settlement process and ensure quality repairs.
• Insurance Renewal: If you already have insurance that is about to expire and want to opt for bike insurance renewal online, you can do that through your current insurance provider’s website or app. Many insurers provide online services, making it easy to renew your plan in just a few minutes.
• Policy Terms: Thoroughly read and understand the terms and conditions of the policy. Pay attention to clauses related to deductibles, waiting periods, and the process of filing a claim.

You have gone through the above questions; they will act as a checklist you must prepare before you file a motor insurance claim. Thoroughly knowing your insurance policy is the key to successfully settling your claim. Once you understand the policy details, you can claim your bike insurance benefits. It is also essential to understand all the terms and conditions of your bike insurance policy and follow the rules to ensure a smooth and hassle-free settlement process.