In today’s digital-first world, managing your vehicle’s insurance has become a lot quicker and accessible, especially when you opt for car insurance online. From purchasing a policy to renewing it annually or filing a claim, online platforms and mobile apps have transformed the entire process to be more people-centric.
However, when it comes to claiming car insurance, especially during a stressful time such as an accident or vehicle damage, knowing the correct process and avoiding common mistakes is crucial to avoid claim rejection.
This article will examine the process of how to claim car insurance online and highlight the common pitfalls to steer clear of so you can make the most of your insurance coverage from purchase to claim.
Step-by-Step Guide to Claim Car Insurance Online
Claiming car insurance online is quite a straightforward process but it has many facets to consider and take care of before getting a claim making it somewhat confusing for new policyholders and individuals looking to claim car insurance online for the first time. Here is the step-by-step process to claim car insurance online from a leading insurer like Bajaj Allianz.
1. Ensure Safety and Report the Incident
Before anything else, prioritise safety. If an accident has occurred, ensure that all parties are safe and seek medical attention if necessary. Then, inform the local police immediately, especially if it involves injury, third-party damage, or theft. You’ll likely need a copy of the FIR when filing the claim.
2. Inform Your Insurance Provider Immediately
Timely intimation is crucial. Whether you buy car insurance online or through an agent, insurers usually expect notification within 24 to 48 hours of the incident. You can contact the insurer through their car insurance renewal app, customer helpline, website, or mobile app.
When you contact the insurer, keep these details ready:
- Policy number
- Vehicle registration number
- Date, time, and location of the incident
- Description of the damage or loss
- FIR copy (if applicable)
3. Register the Claim on the Insurer’s Website or App
Most insurance companies offer a seamless interface for online claim registration. Log in to your account on the car insurance online portal or app and click on the ‘Claim’ or ‘Raise a Claim’ option.
You will need to:
- Fill in basic incident details
- Upload necessary documents (like RC copy, driving licence, photographs of damage, FIR copy)
- Provide bank account details for reimbursement (if applicable)
4. Get a Surveyor Assigned
After your claim is registered with the insurer, they will assign a surveyor to assess the damage accrued by your vehicle and determine whether it is eligible for reimbursement or cashless claim. For minor damages, some insurers allow you to upload pictures through the car insurance renewal app and get quick approval without a physical inspection. In major damage cases, a surveyor may visit your location or the workshop to inspect the vehicle.
5. Take Your Car to a Network Garage (Cashless Claims)
To be eligible for cashless claim, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is taken to a garage that’s part of the insurer’s network and offers cashless claims. You can find the list of network garages on the insurer’s website or mobile app and visit or call the nearest one for the quickest service. For cashless claims, the insurer directly settles the bill with the garage, so you only pay the deductibles or non-covered expenses to get your car ready to drive once again.
6. Claim Approval and Repair
Once the surveyor has assessed the damage and approved, your vehicle will be repaired. When submitting reimbursement claims, ensure that you collect all original bills and receipts to support your claims.
7. Final Documentation and Settlement
For cashless claims, once the repairs are completed, you may need to sign a satisfaction letter and settle any remaining amount not covered under the policy. For reimbursement, submit all bills, payment proofs, and the surveyor’s report online via the app or website.
Once your application is approved, the insurer will transfer the approved claim amount to your listed bank account along with the justification of payment. In case your claim is not approved, you will get a chance to offer additional documentation to support your claim or will be informed the final decision by the insurer as per the timeline listed in the policy document.
What are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Looking to Claim Car Insurance Online?
1. Delaying the Claim Intimation
Failing to notify the insurer within the required timeframe can result in the rejection of your claim. Immediate notification is key for hassle-free processing.
2. Driving Without a Valid Licence or with an Expired Policy
If the driver did not have a valid driving licence at the time of the incident, or the policy had expired, the claim will be denied. Always ensure that your car insurance renewal online is completed before expiry.
3. Not Filing an FIR When Required
In cases involving theft, third-party damage, or major accidents, failing to file a First Information Report (FIR) is a significant oversight. An FIR is often a mandatory document for such claims.
4. Opting for a Non-Network Garage for Cashless Claims
Cashless claims are only available at network garages. If you visit a non-network garage, your claim will be processed through reimbursement, which can take longer and require additional paperwork.
5. Modifying the Vehicle Without Informing the Insurer
Modifications to your car which are not declared to the insurer can lead to claim denial. Always inform your insurer of any changes in your car’s structure, engine, or usage.
6. Not Reading the Policy Document Carefully
Like any other insurance every car insurance policy has specific inclusions, exclusions, and sub-limts depending on the specific insurer. Many claim issues arise because the insured assumed something was covered when it wasn’t. Be sure to read the policy terms carefully, especially if you’ve recently bought car insurance online.
Conclusion
A car insurance is a valuable tool offering financial protection and peace of mind to car owners and drivers alike. Knowing how to file a car insurance online claim online can save you time, stress, and money during a difficult situation. With digitisation, the claim process is now faster, more efficient and accessible than ever before, but to benefit fully, you must act quickly, avoid common mistakes, and follow the correct steps.
Choosing a reputable insurer like Bajaj Allianz and leveraging digital tools, such as their car insurance renewal app, ensures not only smooth claims but also long-term peace of mind. Whether it’s your first claim or not, being well-informed helps you protect your vehicle and your finances more effectively.