After you notify the insurance company of your car accident, one of the first steps they will take is to send someone over to examine the damage. Here's how you can ensure that this part of the process goes smoothly.
In 2023, as per MoRTH, India recorded over 4,80,000 road accidents. No wonder that a comprehensive insurance plan, to protect the owners, drivers and passengers from financial upset upon meeting with an accident, is not only mandated by the law but also has come to be seen as a necessity.
What is a Car Insurance Claim Inspection?
A car insurance claim inspection is the process by which the insurer assesses the extent of damage to your vehicle after an accident or incident. It helps determine the repair costs and whether the claim is valid as per the policy terms. The inspection may be done physically by a surveyor or digitally through photo or video uploads. This step ensures a fair and accurate settlement of your claim.
Where is the Car Inspection Held?
After an accident, the insurance company’s first step is to obtain an objective assessment of the vehicle’s damage. Typically, the inspection is arranged on the same day or the next working day. An appointed surveyor usually conducts the evaluation at the accident site, capturing photographs and collecting necessary details for a thorough report.
In some cases, insurers may ask you to tow the vehicle to an authorised garage or service centre for inspection. Others may accept the damage assessment provided by your preferred workshop. Always check your policy document to understand the specific inspection procedure outlined by your insurer.
What Happens at the Car Inspection?
Whatever process the insurance company chooses, the ultimate purpose of this stage is to help them get an accurate estimate of the damage to the car and therefore the cost of its repair.
Detect Fraud
The job of the inspection surveyor is to understand the car damages claimed to have occurred at the time of the accident and ascertain the truth behind these claims. It just might be the case that the car had already been damaged by the time of the accident. And the owner is using the instance of the accident to try and get these existing damages covered under the accident claim s/he has filed.
If that is the malicious intent and it is discovered by the inspector, the car insurance claim can be disqualified as a fraudulent one. As the adage goes, honesty is indeed always the best policy. Be honest with the car inspector and disclose the facts as they were to help him get to the assessment promptly.
Determine Actual Damage and a Reasonable Repair Cost
Other than ruling out fraudulent claims, the insurance car inspector is also to determine the actual damage sustained by the motor and a reasonable repair cost for the same. This will form the basis of the appropriate car insurance claim settlement figure.
As you know, service centers do not have a standard rate card, and end up charging on a case to case basis. The customer who can negotiate smoothly always gets a better deal. In the same fashion, the motor damage claim assessment estimate the service center will offer to the insurance company will depend on the understanding they have with the company.
So while they may give the insurer a reasonable figure, there is no reason for you to take their word at face value. Feel free to get an independent appraisal of your auto damage repair estimate on the side, to be doubly sure that you are getting a fair deal by the insurance company. Else, use the estimate at hand to initiate fresh accident claim discussions with the company.
Also Read: Having trouble getting your car insurance claims approved? Here’s Why
The Method of Inspection
At the time of the car damage appraisal, the inspector appointed by the insurance company will survey the car and take photographs of all the visible damages. The inspector will also make detailed notes to substantiate the photographic evidence. All the parts that need to be replaced will be marked.
These notes and photographs may be required to be uploaded and/or submitted to the insurance company along with the accident claims file.
Vehicle damage inspections usually should take no more than half an hour to one hour.
Following the Inspection
The inspector or the insurer will then run their proposed repair estimate by you, taking time to explain in detail how they arrived at the number. You are eligible to receive the same in writing with all the components broken down; if you don’t, ask for a copy. Read the report in conjunction with the policy document to be doubly sure you are receiving all the coverage you are eligible for.
Only after you are completely satisfied with the proposed amount, should you accept the approval that the insurance company will issue towards the damage repair.
Reasonable Damage Repair Claim is Your Right
Remember that the insurance company has to offer you a fair deal as per the policy contract you both have signed if you have completed your side of the procedure truthfully and promptly. Always read the policy documents as soon as you receive them in order to be familiar with the complete procedure for claims.
Also remember, while the inspection is being carried out, substantiate your claim with the necessary documents such as your driver’s license, any photographic evidence you have of the accident, car's title and registration documents, policy and claim documents, receipts of repairs you carried out in relation to the accident, etc.
Also Read: Get Best Deals On Car Insurance in India
Tips for a Smooth Inspection Process
A smooth inspection process can help speed up your claim and ensure an accurate assessment of your vehicle’s damage. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Inform your insurer immediately after the accident.
Keep your policy number and claim details ready.
Avoid moving the vehicle until the surveyor arrives, unless necessary for safety.
Gather and share photos or videos of the damage.
Cooperate with the surveyor during the inspection.
Ensure all required documents are submitted promptly.
Summary
During claims, a car inspection is a vital step in determining the damage caused to your vehicle, validating the claim and ensuring a smoother claim process overall. As per your car insurance policy, a surveyor may be appointed to assess the accident/incident involving your insured car or you may be required to take the car to an authorised network garage of the insurer for inspection. Make sure you record and take images of the incident as evidence as it ensures a smoother claim process for the insurer, and you can always have second opinions if you are not satisfied with the results of the car inspection.
Also Read: When is a Car Inspection Required?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be present during the inspection?
It is recommended to be present so you can provide accurate details about the incident and answer any questions the surveyor may have.
Can I take my own photos of the damage?
Yes, taking your own photos right after the accident can be helpful evidence, but the insurer’s surveyor will still conduct an official assessment.
How long does a car claim inspection process take?
In most cases, the inspection is completed within 24 to 48 hours of reporting the claim, depending on the insurer’s schedule and location.
How will I know that my car insurance claim is approved?
You will receive confirmation from your insurer—usually via SMS, email, or app notification—once the inspection report is reviewed and the claim is approved.
Who does the inspection — the insurer or someone else?
The inspection is usually carried out by a licensed surveyor appointed by the insurance company to ensure an unbiased assessment.
How soon should I report an accident to my insurer?
It’s best to inform your insurer immediately or within 24 hours of the accident to avoid delays or complications in the claim process.
