A guide to claiming insurance for monsoon car damage

Posted on: Jul 26, 2021 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

A guide to claiming insurance for monsoon car damage

Monsoons are a boon in a tropical country like India, especially after the unbearable summer months. Plus, rain is essential for our agrarian economy. However, it might not be very good news for your car. Cars are made of moving metal components that are prone to damage caused by the corrosive effect of rainwater. Monsoons also come with the risk of floods, broken branches falling on your car, short circuits of exposed electrical parts and so on. This makes it essential to have the right car insurance. You also need to know how to register a claim easily in case your vehicle gets damaged in an accident or natural calamity and needs expensive repairs.

What kind of damages is your car prone to during the monsoons?

1. Engine seizure

Seizing of engines is one of the most common issues car owners face. Water seeping into the engine through the air intake or exhaust can severely cripple the machinery. It can alter the chemical balance of the fuel and inhibit ignition. Water can also damage the cylinders and pistons, leading to costly repairs, and might need partial or full replacement of the engine.

2. Electrical damage

Electricity and water are not friends. Hence, water seeping into the car’s chassis can disrupt and short the electrical circuitry. Additionally, all the gadgets installed, such as an entertainment screen, speaker system, etc., can malfunction due to water ingress.

3. Mechanical damage

Water, air, and metals are the three ingredients needed to form rust. Rust can spread across the metal chassis, corroding it from the inside and weakening the entire structure. As a combination of moving components that suffer greatly from wear and tear, stressing it further with rust is not advisable.

The suspension and steering system of the car, along with the tyres also suffer during the monsoons due to the poor condition of the roads. Furthermore, in case of heavy rains and storms, there can be instances of flooding and uprooting of trees and poles that can negatively affect your car. Add to that the prevalence of potholes and low visibility with lots of cars on the road, and you have a perfect cocktail for mishaps. This is where your car insurance policy comes to the rescue.

Major types of car Insurance and how they work and benefit you

A. Third-party car insurance:

Third-party insurance covers damages caused by your vehicle to another person or their property. This is a mandatory policy that you must have, regardless of your vehicle.

B. Comprehensive car insurance policy:

The comprehensive car insurance policy covers third party liability as well as the damages caused to your vehicle as a result of an accident and in case of a natural disaster like incessant rains, cyclones, and earthquakes.

Apart from a comprehensive car insurance policy, you might also need to avail a few add-ons that can power up your basic coverage. Make sure to check these add-ons during your car insurance renewal.

C. Engine protection add-on:

As the name suggests, this add-on covers the damage to the engine in case of water ingress.

D. Zero depreciation cover:

If you have a zero-depreciation cover, you will be reimbursed the entire amount of the damage, and not just the depreciated value of the damaged components.

E. Roadside assistance:

While some insurers may have this as a standard feature, it’s always prudent to have roadside assistance as an add-on if your policy doesn’t cover it, as you never know where you may be stranded, given the unpredictability of the monsoon.

While it is necessary to have adequate insurance coverage, it’s also important to file the claim properly, as requested by your insurer. Here’s how to file a standard insurance claim in case of a mishap:

1. Call your insurance provider immediately:

In the event of an accident or flooding, call your insurer immediately. They will guide you on the next steps.

2. Gather photographic evidence:

Take photos from all angles of the damage that has been done to send to your insurer. Do not attempt to move the cause of damage or the car or do anything to distort the scene.

3. Wait for the surveyor

Wait for the surveyor from the insurance company to examine the vehicle before you attempt to fix the problem. You may need to provide the details of your car, self, and insurance to the surveyor.

4. Service at an authorised workshop

When you call your insurer, they are likely to arrange for a tow to the nearest authorised service centre. Do not attempt to fix the problem at just any centre, as it may not be under the insurer’s list of authorised centres, leading to a possible rejection of your claim.

5. Settlement:

Depending on the type of damage, the service station’s protocol, and the terms and conditions of your car insurance policy, the settlement will be initiated. Once the surveyor authorises the claim, it is likely to be settled with the service station. In case of reimbursement claims, you may get the reimbursement within seven days after submitting the required documents.

You can track your car insurance claim via customer support, the insurer’s app, or through SMS alerts. Before filing the claim, though, read the policy documents carefully to understand your exclusions and the special circumstances under which your claims may get rejected. This way, you can save both your time and energy.

Safe Driving Practices in Heavy Rains

Heavy rain necessitates additional precautions for safety on the roads. Here are some dos and don'ts during the rainy season:

• Do Slow down:

Lower all speeds to maintain control of the vehicle on wet, slippery roads.

• Do Use Headlights:

As visibility is low, using headlights will help others see your vehicle.

• Do Keep Distance:

Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front so that you may stop in time.

• Don’t Use Cruise Control:

During heavy rain, it should be avoided to give you maximum control over the option of accelerating or braking your vehicle.

• Don't Drive Through Flooded Areas:

Steer clear of flooded roads to avoid the chance of water damage.

• Check car insurance:

Be certain that your car insurance, including third party car insurance, is active for maximum safety in adverse weather situations.

Vehicle Insurance: Your Safety Net in Monsoons

Vehicle insurance, such as car insurance, provides effective protection from damages that may occur due to heavy rain, floods, and accidents. It can significantly limit your repair expenses in case of a few damages. Apart from this, roadside assistance, engine protection, etc., can be add-ons to enhance your safety and financial coverage in these unpredictable weather conditions.

Choosing the Right Insurance

Choosing the right car insurance would ensure your peace of mind. The following considerations are paramount:

• Do Assess Coverage Needs:

Determine whether you require car insurance coverage or third party car insurance will suffice.

• Do Compare Policies:

Search for different insurance companies to ensure the best rates and coverage.

• Don't Ignore Add-Ons:

Keep coverage options like roadside assistance in mind for safety in the rainy season.

• Don't Rush the Decision:

Take your time to understand the terms of a policy before making your decision.

Conclusion

Selecting car insurance that is suitable for you will cover both you and your ride, especially in the rainy season. Understand dos and don'ts during the rainy season, along with car insurance options and add-on offerings, to have a clear understanding of how safe and worry-free you will be able to go through difficult weather conditions. Know and drive safely!

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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