Find out which documentation is required to file Car insurance claims in India, such as FIRs, insurance forms, and a driver's license. Discover the types of claims, the procedure, and professional advice for a smooth experience.
Car insurance is a mandatory and essential safeguard for every vehicle owner in India. It provides financial protection against damages or losses caused by accidents, theft, natural disasters, or third-party liabilities. However, to avail of this protection, you need to file a car insurance claim with your insurance provider. To ensure a smooth and successful claim process, you’ll need to submit specific documents to your insurer. This article lists all the essential documents required for different types of car insurance claims in India—along with a simple step-by-step guide to filing your claim.
What is a Car Insurance Claim?
A car insurance claim is a request made by the policyholder to their insurance company for financial compensation in case of any damage or loss to their vehicle. This claim can be made for various reasons, such as accidents, theft, or natural disasters. The insurance company will assess the claim and provide compensation as per the terms and conditions of the policy.
Types of Car Insurance Claims
Depending on the situation, you can raise one of the following car insurance claims. Each type requires a different set of supporting documents. There are two types of car insurance claims – third-party insurance claims and comprehensive insurance claims.
1. Third-Party Claim
A third-party insurance claim is made when your vehicle causes damage or injury to a third party. In this case, the insurance company will compensate the third party for the damages caused by your vehicle.
2. Own Damage Claim
Your own damage claim is made when your vehicle suffers damage or loss due to accidents, theft, fire, or natural disasters. In this case, the insurance company will compensate you for the repair costs or loss of your vehicle.
3. Theft Claim
A theft claim is raised when your insured vehicle is stolen. The insurer will process your compensation after receiving a non-traceable report from the police, as per IRDAI regulations.
Documents Required for Car Insurance Claim
To file a car insurance claim, you need to submit certain documents to your insurance company. These documents may vary depending on the type of claim and the insurance company. While the required paperwork may vary slightly by insurer, here’s a general checklist of documents you’ll need to submit.
Insurance Claim Form
Copy of the Insurance Policy
Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
Driving Licence
FIR (First Information Report)
Repair Bills and Receipts
Photographs of the Damages
The first and most crucial document required for a car insurance claim is the insurance claim form. This form is provided by the insurance company and needs to be filled with accurate information about the incident and the damages incurred.
You will also need to submit a copy of your car insurance policy while filing a claim. This document contains all the details of your insurance coverage, including the terms and conditions, premium amount, and coverage limits.
The vehicle registration certificate (RC) is a legal document that proves the ownership of your vehicle. It contains details such as the vehicle's engine number, chassis number, and registration number. This document is essential while filing a car insurance claim.
Your driving license is another crucial document required for a car insurance claim. It serves as proof that you are legally allowed to drive the vehicle and is necessary for the insurance company to process your claim.
In case of an accident, theft, or any other criminal activity involving your vehicle, you need to file an FIR with the police. This document is essential while filing a car insurance claim and serves as proof of the incident.
If your vehicle has suffered damages due to an accident, you need to submit the repair bills and receipts to the insurance company. These documents serve as proof of the expenses incurred for repairing your vehicle.
It is always advisable to take photographs of the damages to your vehicle as soon as possible after the incident. These photographs serve as evidence and can help in the claim assessment process.
Documents Required as per the Type of Claim
When raising a car insurance claim, the list of documents you need to submit varies depending on the nature of the claim. Providing the correct documents ensures faster claim settlement and avoids unnecessary delays. Below are the required documents based on different claim types:
Third-Party Claim
- Copy of FIR filed with the police
- Claim form duly filled and signed
- Copy of the driving license of the insured person
- Copy of the car’s RC (Registration Certificate)
- Copy of insurance policy document
- Court summons or legal notice, if applicable
Accidental Damage Claim
- Duly filled and signed claim form
- Copy of insurance policy document
- Copy of the car’s RC (Registration Certificate)
- Copy of the driving license of the driver at the time of the accident
- Original repair bills and payment receipts (in case of reimbursement)
- Estimate of repairs from the garage
- Police FIR (if required by insurer for major damages or injuries)
Theft Claim
- Original FIR copy lodged with the police
- Duly filled and signed claim form
- Copy of insurance policy document
- Copy of the car’s RC (Registration Certificate)
- Copy of the driving license of the insured person
- Acknowledgement from police confirming “Non-traceable Report” of the stolen car
- Car keys (all sets)
Apart from the documents mentioned above, you may also need to submit additional documents depending on the type of claim and the insurance company's requirements. These may include a copy of your PAN card, bank account details, and any other relevant documents.
How to File a Car Insurance Claim in India?
To file a car insurance claim in India, follow the steps given below:
- Inform your Insurance Company Immediately: Notify your insurer within 24–48 hours of the incident. Most insurers allow claim intimation through their website, mobile app, or customer helpline.
- Fill the Claim Form: Once you have informed the insurance company, they will provide you with a claim form. Fill this form with accurate information about the incident and the damages incurred.
- Submit the Required Documents: Along with the claim form, you need to submit all the necessary documents mentioned above to the insurance company.
- Claim Assessment: The insurer will assign a surveyor to inspect your car and verify the extent of damage before approval.
- Settlement: Once approved, compensation is processed via cashless repair (if you visit a network garage) or reimbursement (if repairs are done elsewhere).
Tips for a Hassle-free Car Insurance Claim Process
Follow these best practices to ensure a smooth and timely claim settlement.
Keep your documents ready
Be honest and accurate
Keep a record of all
To avoid any delays in the claim process, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready before filing a claim. This will help you submit the documents promptly and avoid any back and forth with the insurance company.
While filling the claim form, make sure you provide accurate information about the incident and the damages incurred. Any false or misleading information can lead to the rejection of your claim.
Keep a record of all communication — including emails, SMS confirmations, and surveyor reports — until your claim is fully settled.
In Summary
Filing a car insurance claim can be a daunting task, but with the right documents and knowledge, you can make the process smoother and hassle-free. Make sure to keep all the necessary documents ready and follow the correct procedure to ensure a successful claim. Remember to be honest and accurate while providing information to the insurance company. With these tips in mind, you can easily file a car insurance claim and get the compensation you deserve.
More Articles:
Steps To File Your Car Insurance Claim
How to Claim Car Insurance after Accident in India
9 Common Mistakes To Avoid While Filing A Car Insurance Claim
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are required to claim car insurance?
Typically, you’ll need a filled claim form, your policy copy, RC, valid driving licence, FIR (if applicable), and repair bills. Some insurers may also ask for your PAN or bank details.
Is FIR necessary for a car insurance claim?
FIR is mandatory for theft, third-party injury, or major accident claims. For minor own-damage claims, it may not be required unless specified by your insurer.
Is a driver's licence required for a claim?
Yes. A valid driver’s licence is required when the accident occurs. Claims may be rejected if the driver was unlicensed or disqualified.
Can I file a claim without the RC?
If your RC is lost or stolen, you must file an FIR and apply for a duplicate RC at the RTO before proceeding with the claim.
Do I need photos of the damage?
Yes, photos of the damaged vehicle help support and speed up the claim.
Is the PAN card required for high claim amounts?
Yes, insurers typically request a PAN card for claim settlements above ₹1 lakh, as per IRDAI norms.
Disclaimer: The list of documents and procedures mentioned above may vary slightly depending on your insurer and policy terms. Always check with your insurance provider for the most up-to-date requirements.
