- What should I do immediately after an accident?
Answer: Immediately after an accident, ensure everyone’s safety, exchange details with any third parties involved, take photographs of the accident, and notify your insurer promptly.
- How do I report a motor claim and what documents do I need to file a motor claim?
Answer: To report a motor claim, contact your insurance company via their claims hotline, online portal, or through your insurance agent or broker. You may need to fill out a claim form where all pertinent accident details are provided, photos taken at the scene of the accident will be helpful together with contact details of parties involved, a copy of a police report if necessary, a repair estimate from a reputable garage, your insurance certificate any other relevant documents required by your insurer.
- Is there a time limit to file a motor claim?
Answer: There is a time limit for filing a motor claim; typically, you must file as soon as possible but no later than 30 days after the accident. Refer to your policy for specific details.
- Will my premium increase after filing a claim?
Answer: Filing a claim may increase your premium depending on the insurer and the claim’s circumstances. Premiums often rise if you are at fault.
- Do I need a police report to file a claim?
Answer: A police report is not always required to file a claim but may be essential for serious accidents with significant damage, injuries or death, theft, or when a third party is involved. Your insurer will advise on when it’s necessary.
- Can I choose my repair garage?
Answer: You may be able to choose your repair shop, although some insurers require using their network of approved garages, which can expedite the claims process and guarantee quality repairs. Your insurer will guide you in this regard.
- What is an excess?
Answer: An excess is the amount you pay out-of-pocket when making a claim. It’s the first part of the claim paid by the insured, while the insurer covers the rest. Generally, a higher excess means a lower premium. However, in some markets, your insurer may give the option to buy the excess at an extra cost meaning the insurer will pay the entire claim without the insured’s involvement.
- How long does it take to process a motor claim?
Answer: The processing time for a motor claim varies based on the claim’s complexity, how quickly the necessary documents are provided, and the insurer’s processing timeline. It can take anywhere from one day to several weeks.
- What if the other driver is uninsured?
Answer: If the other driver is uninsured and you are not at fault, your insurer will cover the damages to your vehicle and pay the claim up to your policy limits. Subsequently, they will seek reimbursement from the uninsured at-fault driver. Driving without at least third-party motor insurance is illegal in most jurisdictions, which makes the case against the uninsured driver actionable in court.
- Can I claim for a rental car while my car is being repaired?
Answer: Many comprehensive policies include coverage for a rental car while your vehicle is under repair. However, it’s crucial to verify the specifics of your policy or check with your insurer.
- What if my car is declared a total loss?
Answer: If your car is deemed a total loss, the insurer will take the vehicle’s salvage and compensate you with the market value or the insured sum, whichever is lower, at the accident time, less any excess, deductible, and depreciation.
- How are claims for minor damages handled?
Answer: Insurers may have a fast-track procedure for minor damages by allowing you to send photos of the damage and receive a rapid assessment and repair approval within 24 hours.
- What if I disagree with the claim settlement?
Answer: If you disagree with the claim settlement, you can contest it with your insurer by providing additional evidence or information. If it remains unresolved, you can escalate the dispute to the insurance regulatory body or an arbitrator or any other appropriate legal channels.
- Will filing a claim affect my no-claims bonus?
Answer: Typically, filing a claim will impact your no-claims bonus, leading to a reduced discount on your insurance premium.
- Am I able to claim if I caused the accident?
Answer: If you have comprehensive coverage, you can file a claim for your vehicle’s damages even if the accident was your fault. The insurer will handle the repairs, deducting any applicable excess.
- What does third-party liability insurance entail?
Answer: Third-party liability insurance covers damages and injuries that you may cause to others or their property in an accident. It does not provide coverage for your vehicle damage or personal injuries.
- How is fault determined by insurers after an accident?
Answer: Insurers determine fault by reviewing available evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photographs. They might also consult accident inspection experts when needed.
- Is it possible to claim for personal injuries after a motor accident?
Answer: You can claim for personal injuries under your motor insurance policy if covered, although it will only cover a small amount for medical expenses. For more comprehensive coverage, a personal accident insurance policy is recommended. This will cover full medical costs, disabilities, and death resulting from motor accidents and other causes.
- What will happen If my vehicle incurs further damage at the accident scene because it was left unattended after being disabled from an earlier accident?
Answer: You must not leave your vehicle unattended without taking reasonable precautions to prevent additional damage or loss after an accident or breakdown. As per your insurance policy, you are expected to care for your vehicle as if it were uninsured. Neglecting this duty could result in any subsequent damage, which may lead to your insurer denying full compensation.
- What are the consequences of filing a fraudulent insurance claim?
Answer: Filing a fraudulent claim can lead to severe legal consequences, including potential criminal charges with severe penalties, including denial of the claim, cancellation of your policy, and fines. Insurers take fraud very seriously and will investigate suspicious claims thoroughly.
Thanks for this piece.
It’s “comprehensively” educative.
Thanks, my darling Sister. I appreciate you.
Great Insight and very useful. Thanks Ma
Thanks Jessy, I am encouraged.
Hmm ! Insightful. Thank you
Thank Tayo for reading and finding this post insightful. I have missed your comments on other posts.
Thanks for the deep insights provided on this.
Is it allowed to make claims on accidented vehicle after repairs has been made by the owner, backed with proof and evidence of the accident especially if the accident occurs far away from home and he or she needs to travel back in same vehicle? Provided the insurer is notified?
Thanks, Seeke. I appreciate you as always. Yes, it is possible to make a claim on an accidented vehicle after repairs have been made by the owner, subject to the coverage limits and specific terms and conditions of your insurance policy. But generally, YES.