Bike Theft Insurance Claim: Step-by- Step Guide

Posted on: Jul 11, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Bike Theft Insurance Claim: Step-by- Step Guide

Losing your bike to theft not only affects your finances but also your daily commute and peace of mind. Vehicle thefts in India have increased by 2.5% in 2023 compared to 2022. Bikes are stolen 9.5 times more frequently than cars, making it important for every rider to understand their insurance options.

Comprehensive plans offer complete financial protection against theft, unlike basic third- party bike insurance. However, having the right policy is only half the battle. Knowing how to file a claim correctly makes the real difference between getting compensated and facing rejection. Let’s look at the complete process to handle bike theft claims with confidence.

Immediate Steps After Your Bike Gets Stolen

Acting fast after your bike is stolen ensures quicker claim processing and settlement. Here’s what you need to do right away:

• File a First Information Report (FIR) at the nearest police station. Carry your registration certificate, insurance papers, and a couple of pics of your bike for reference. The police may ask about your bike’s make and model, colour, installed accessories, and the last time you saw it.

• Inform your insurer about the theft as soon as possible. Most insurers expect you to report the incident within 24 to 48 hours.

• Notify your local Regional Transport Office (RTO) about the theft. This is a legal requirement and helps with the claim process.

How to File a Bike Theft Claim with Your Insurer?

Filing your theft claim requires careful attention to detail and proper documentation. Here’s how to do it correctly:

1. Call your insurer’s toll-free number or visit their website to register the claim. Provide your policy number and details of the incident.

2. Attach the following documents with the claim submission form:

◦ Original FIR

◦ Insurance policy document

◦ Self-attested copy of the registration certificate (RC)

◦ Self-attested photocopy of the driving licence

◦ RTO papers (Forms 28, 29, 30, and 35)

2. Hand over the original bike keys to the police, if required.

3. Keep your claim number safe for future reference.

4. File a ‘No-Trace Report’ application with the police.

The insurance company will appoint an investigator for your case. The investigator will contact the police and check your documents to process the claim further.

Claim Approval and Settlement Process

Once the investigation is complete, the claim moves to approval. Here’s what happens next:

◦ If your bike isn’t recovered within 30 days, the police will issue a non-traceable or no-trace report.

◦ This report confirms that the bike could not be found after investigation.

◦ Submit this report to your insurer.

◦ The insurer will then finalise the claim based on the Insured Declared Value (IDV).

◦ Once approved, the payout will be made to your bank account.

◦ If you have zero depreciation bike insurance, it can help you get a higher settlement without deductions for depreciation.

◦ The insurer may also help you complete the necessary paperwork to transfer ownership and close your loan account if applicable.

How to Avoid Claim Rejection?

Simple errors can reject or delay your claim. Here’s how to make sure your claim is accepted:

◦ Keep your policy active. Renew it on time. A lapsed policy means no cover.

◦ Understand your policy type. Third party bike insurance doesn't cover theft, so make sure you have comprehensive coverage.

◦ Report the theft to the police and insurer without delay.

◦ Cooperate with the investigating officer and submit only genuine documents. Insurance companies use sophisticated fraud detection systems. Fake documents may result in legal action.

How to Strengthen Your Bike Insurance and Save Money?

You can protect your policy with the following add-ons to reduce your risk in the future:

1. Zero Depreciation:

With the Zero depreciation bike insurance add-on, you don't lose money due to depreciation during claim settlement. This means you get closer to the actual replacement cost of your bike.

2. Return to Invoice Cover:

This add-on pays you the invoice value of your bike, not just the depreciated value. It is particularly beneficial for new and high- performing bikes.

3. Personal Accident Cover:

This cover gives financial support if you are injured during the theft.

4. NCB Protector:

With this add-on, you can safeguard your accumulated No-Claim Bonus (NCB) in the event of theft. You can get the NCB transferred to a new vehicle based on the insurer’s terms.

5. Anti-Theft Devices:

Installing ARAI-certified security devices, like GPS trackers, digital locks, alarm systems, and immobilisers, can help you prevent and detect theft in real-time. You will also get a discount on the premium if your vehicle has an anti-theft device.

Conclusion

Losing your bike is never easy, but with proper steps, your claim can be made smooth. A valid comprehensive bike insurance policy can help recover your losses. For enhanced protection, consider suitable add-ons. To improve the chances of bike recovery, always park your bike in secure locations, consider GPS trackers, file an FIR immediately, and inform your insurer promptly with the necessary documents. Stay informed; stay covered.

FAQs

1. Under what circumstances can the insurer reject a theft claim?

The insurer can reject your claim if:

◦ You don’t file an FIR or delay informing the insurer.

◦ You fail to submit the required documents.

◦ Your policy was inactive at the time of theft.

◦ You provide unclear and misguided information.

◦ Unauthorised modifications have not been disclosed in the policy.

2. How long does it take to get a theft claim settled?

It usually takes around 3 to 4 months, depending on your case. Insurers wait for a No-Trace Report from police, which may take up to 90 days to generate.

3. Can I purchase zero-depreciation bike insurance with third-party bike insurance?

Zero depreciation add-on cannot be purchased with a third-party insurance policy as it only applies to comprehensive bike insurance coverages.

4. Without a zero-depreciation add-on, how much can the insurer deduct from the claim amount?

Without this add-on, insurers can reduce your settlement amount by 20-50%. With zero depreciation, you get the full IDV amount.

5. Is it mandatory to install anti-theft devices on bikes?

No, it's not mandatory. However, having one can reduce the chances of bike theft, decrease scooter insurance costs, and improve your claim experience.

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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