In a rapidly growing country like India, owning a vehicle is no longer a luxury. It’s a necessity. But with more vehicles on the road, accidents have become more common. Whether it’s a minor dent or a major collision, having a solid auto insurance policy offers financial protection. Still, many policyholders are unsure how to file a claim effectively.
This step-by-step guide from Money Moksh makes the process of filing an auto insurance claim in India clearer.
Why You Need to Understand The Claim Process
Auto insurance provides peace of mind. However, the real test is how smoothly you can file a claim and get paid. Delays, mistakes, or a lack of knowledge can cost you time and money. It’s crucial to understand the process, whether you’re dealing with third-party liability or a comprehensive cover claim.
Current Trends & News: IRDAI’s Push for Digitized Claims in 2025
As of the beginning of 2025, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has implemented new regulations aimed at digitizing and streamlining auto insurance claims.. Leading insurers like ICICI Lombard and HDFC ERGO have started using AI-driven systems to reduce approval times from days to hours.
A recent report by Business Standard noted that over 60% of car insurance claims in Tier 1 cities are now filed online, showing a clear shift toward digital processes. This trend simplifies filing claims and promotes transparency and quicker resolutions.
Step-by-Step Guide to File an Auto Insurance Claim In India
1. Ensure Safety First
Before focusing on paperwork or policies, make sure everyone involved in the accident is safe. If there are any injuries, seek medical assistance right away. If the accident is serious, call local police and file a First Information Report (FIR).
2. Inform Your Insurance Provider
The next important step is to contact your automobile insurance provider immediately, ideally within 24 hours. Most insurers have 24/7 helplines or apps to start the claim process. Delaying this could lead to denial of your claim.
3. Document the Incident Thoroughly
Take photos of the damaged vehicle, the accident scene, road signs, and any involved third-party vehicles. These images serve as important evidence for the claim assessment. Also, record the following:
- Time and location of accident
- Names of witnesses
- Police report details (if filed)
4. Submit Required Documents
Here’s a standard list of documents you’ll typically need to submit for an auto insurance claim :
- Completed claim form
- Copy of your insurance policy
- RC (Registration Certificate) of the vehicle
- Driving license
- FIR (for third-party or serious damage)
- Repair bills (if you arranged repairs)
- Photos of the damage
Make sure to submit all documents correctly.
5. Get Your Vehicle Inspected
Following the registration of the claim, the insurance company will dispatch a surveyor to examine the vehicle. For minor damage, many companies now offer video inspections through their apps. Don’t repair the car before the inspection unless your insurer advises you to do so.
6. Choose Between Cashless or Reimbursement
You have two options for repairs :
- Cashless Garage : The insurer pays the bill directly to the garage (only for network garages). Cashless claims are faster and easier. You can find the list of network garages on your insurer’s website or app.
- Reimbursement : You pay the repair bill upfront and get reimbursed later.
7. Track Claim Status
Use your insurer’s app or website to monitor your auto insurance claim status in real-time. If any documents are missing or if you need to provide further information, act quickly.
8. Claim Settlement
Once all steps are completed and the surveyor approves, your claim will be either reimbursed (if you paid out of pocket) or settled directly with the garage. The time for this can range from 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not reading the policy exclusions (e.g., drunken driving, expired policy)
- Getting repairs done before inspection
- Delaying notification to the insurer
- Submitting incomplete or false documents
- Using a non-network garage for a cashless claim
- Avoiding these mistakes will greatly improve your chances of a successful claim.
Digital Claims: The Future of Automobile Insurance
With the rise of InsurTech, many leading companies like Acko, Digit, and Bajaj Allianz are offering easy claim filing through mobile apps. Features like paperless documentation, GPS tracking of surveyors, and instant approvals are establishing new standards.
According to IRDAI’s Vision 2025, all auto insurance companies in India will be required to provide fully digitized claim processes by the end of 2025.
Special Note for Third-Party Claims
If you’re filing a third-party insurance claim (where another person is at fault), you need to :
- File an FIR
- Obtain a copy of the charge sheet
- Approach the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT)
This process can take more time and involve legal concerns, so it’s wise to hire a lawyer.
Renewing & Reviewing Your Policy
Sometimes claims get rejected due to policy lapses or lack of coverage. It’s smart to :
- Regularly review your auto insurance coverage
- Choose add-ons like Zero Depreciation or Roadside Assistance
- Renew your policy on time to avoid claim denial
- Web aggregators like PolicyBazaar and Coverfox help you compare quotes and find the best deals.
Once your claim is filed and accepted :
- In-Depth : What Happens After You File a Claim?
- Surveyor Inspection : Confirms the extent of the damage
- Loss Assessment : Calculates your eligible claim amount
- Approval & Repair : Repairs begin after approval
- Final Settlement : Depending on your deductible and IDV, the final payment is processed
Keep in mind that your claim history affects your No Claim Bonus (NCB) during policy renewal. Minor damages may not be worth claiming if you want to keep your NCB discount.
Conclusion: Stay Prepared, Stay Informed
Filing an auto insurance claim doesn’t have to be stressful. With knowledge, planning, and the use of digital tools, the process is easier than ever in India. Stay aware of regulatory changes, understand your policy well, and always keep documents ready.
As the insurance industry moves towards more digital operations, filing and tracking auto insurance claims will only get simpler. Whether you’re a first-time car owner or an experienced driver, being informed helps you handle emergencies with confidence.
Stay tuned to Money Moksh for more useful insights into your financial journey. Secure today, drive safely tomorrow.
Also If you are looking for reliable life insurance as well? Click here to explore trusted life insurance plans and secure your family’s future today.