Why Timely Car Insurance Claims Matter More Than You Think?

Posted on: Sep 3, 2025 | 3 Mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Why Timely Car Insurance Claims Matter More Than You Think?

It's always wise to opt for comprehensive car insurance. Moreover, having coverage, even if you never need to use it, is far better than the alternative. However, unforeseen circumstances, such as accidents, damage, or theft, can necessitate filing a claim. In such cases, acting quickly and informing your insurance company immediately is crucial to ensure a smooth claim process.

Is There a Time Limit for Submitting an Insurance Claim?

Different companies follow different guidelines about setting time limits for filing a claim. If you have purchased car insurance online, several insurers provide the option to complete the entire claim process online. Most insurance providers suggest you do it within 48-72 hours, though some may also set shorter timelines.

Considering the situation's urgency, the insurance companies allow you to file a claim via different communication channels. You can call the insurance company on the phone or file the claim using a web portal or mobile phone app.

How long you can wait to file a car insurance claim is something you always need to consider because it will directly impact your claim guarantee. Insurance companies need to ascertain the facts of the event out of which the claim has arisen. So, if a lot of delay is made in filing the claim, this process can get delayed.

Can a Delay in Filing a Claim Lead to Rejection?

Insurance companies follow strict car insurance claim time limits, and if you don’t meet the deadlines, your claim might not be accepted.

There are a few reasons why this happens:

• Verification becomes harder: If you wait too long, it becomes difficult for the insurance company to verify the incident. They might not be able to check the damage properly or find witnesses.

• Suspicion of fraud: A delay in reporting may raise doubts about your claim. The insurer may suspect that you are trying to make a false claim.

• Policy conditions: If you do not follow the rules written in the policy, including timelines, the insurer is not responsible for paying the claim.

Step-By-Step Guide: Filing an Own Damage Car Insurance Claim

Here’s how to file a claim for your car’s damage:

• Inform the insurer: Call your insurer’s helpline or use their mobile app or website to report the damage. Do this as soon as possible after the accident.

• Lodge an FIR (if needed): If there is third-party involvement, theft, or major damage, visit your local police station and file an FIR.

• Take pictures: Take clear photos of the damage, the spot where the accident happened, and any other vehicles involved.

• Submit documents to the insurer: Provide your driving licence, RC book, insurance papers, and FIR (if applicable).

• Survey by the insurer: The insurance company will send a surveyor to examine the damage. Don’t repair the car before this.

• Repair the vehicle: After approval, take your car to a network garage for cashless repair, or any automobile workshop if you’re going for reimbursement.

• Get the claim settled: After the work is done, the insurer will pay the approved amount as per the policy terms.

What Happens if You Forget to File a Claim Within a Decided Timeframe?

Sometimes, filing a delayed insurance claim turns into a game of chance. You might face a situation where the insurance company can’t fully process your claim or, worse, denies it entirely. It's like holding a winning lottery ticket only to find out the prize is much less than what you hoped. You've got comprehensive car insurance coverage, but still, you end up with just a slice of what you should have received. Not exactly the ideal outcome, right? So, filing your claim within the stipulated timeframe is always prudent.

Why Timely Claim Filing Matters for Smooth Settlements?

Filing your claim on time makes the process easier for both you and the insurance company. Here’s why timely filing is important:

• Quick surveys and approvals: Insurers can send their surveyor faster and assess the damage accurately.

• Easier verification: Fresh evidence, such as photos or witness statements, is easier to collect.

• Faster repairs: Your car gets repaired without delay if the claim process is started early.

• No policy violations: You avoid the risk of breaking the rules written in your policy.

Car Insurance Claim Process for a Stolen Four-Wheeler

• Faster repairs: Your car gets repaired without delay if the claim process is started early.

If your car is stolen, follow these steps quickly:

• File an FIR: Go to the police station and register a complaint immediately.

• Inform the insurer: Call or notify your insurance company with all the details of the theft.

• Submit documents: Provide a copy of the FIR, policy document, RC book, driving licence, and other required papers.

• Investigation: The police and insurer will conduct their investigations.

• No-trace report: If the car is not found, the police issue a “no-trace report.”

• Claim approval: Once all checks are done, the insurer will approve and settle the claim as per the IDV (Insured Declared Value).

Car Insurance Claim Rules

There are some general rules you should follow for any comprehensive car insurance claim:

• Report the incident within the allowed time.

• Don’t repair your vehicle before the survey unless necessary.

• Provide accurate information and documents.

• Follow the insurer’s instructions carefully.

• Be honest in your claim; fraud can lead to criminal charges.

• Keep copies of all documents and communication.

Conclusion

The crux of the story is that if you need to make a claim on your car insurance policy, you should start the process promptly and not cause unnecessary delays. A lag can lead to rejection, lower payouts, or long waiting times. Whether it's a minor accident or a serious loss like theft, always inform your insurer as soon as possible. Keep all documents ready, follow the proper process, and avoid breaking policy rules. This will help you get the benefits you deserve without stress.

FAQs

Q1.How much time do I have to file a car insurance claim?

A: Most insurers require you to file the claim within 48 to 72 hours, but check your specific policy.

Q2.Can I file an insurance claim after repairing the car?

A: It’s not recommended. Always wait for the surveyor’s inspection unless the insurer allows immediate repair.

Q3. What documents are required for a car insurance claim?

A: Driving licence, RC book, insurance policy, FIR (if required), and photos of the damage.

Q4. What if I don’t have time to inform the insurer immediately?

A: Try to inform them as soon as possible. If there’s a genuine reason for delay, provide proof.

Q5. Is there a difference between own damage and third-party claims?

A: Own damage covers your car, while third-party claims cover damage to others. Both have different processes.

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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