Insurance claims safeguard vehicle owners from financial burdens arising from untoward incidents such as accidents, theft, and convulsions of nature. Because of this, it is important that you have the appropriate insurance coverage to avoid spending your own money on repairs.
However, there are different types of accident insurance claims that one can submit. In this article, we will explain the different types of claims you can go for and the general claims procedure that you should be aware of.
Own Damage Claims
Own Damage or Own Damage Claims (OD) applies if the damage to your vehicle is caused by your negligence. In other words, an OD claim refers to claiming loss or damage to your car from your insurance company. You can only opt for this claim if you have comprehensive coverage. Other policies such as third-party or third-party, fire and theft do not cover damage to your vehicle from accidents.
Own Damage Knock-for-Knock Claims
Own Damage Knock-for-Knock (OD-KFK) refers to claiming insurance from a third party through your insurance company. Like OD claims, this claim can only be submitted with comprehensive insurance. OD-KFK claims are an alternative method insurance companies use to speed up the claims process. It works whereby you submit a claim through your insurer, and the insurer will reclaim the repair cost from the third-party insurance company.
Windscreen Damage
Vehicle owners who purchase windscreen coverage can claim damages to their windscreen. Insurance companies offer windscreen add-ons for additional premiums to safeguard the No-Claim Discount (NCD), which will be affected for a windscreen claim under a standard car policy. Windscreen add-ons typically can only be used once per year. So, if you are planning to make another claim in the same year, re-purchase the windscreen cover to submit another claim.
Third-Party Property Damage (TPPD)
Third-Party Property Damage (TPPD) refers to a claim against a third-party insurance company for the damages to your vehicle and properties due to the negligence of a third party. Seek compensation for damage to your car or property from accidents caused by other parties and other financial losses such as excess and loss of use. TPPD is the basic insurance claim you can go for if you are not found guilty of the accident.
How to submit accident insurance claims?
1. Get help
If you are involved in an accident, evaluate the damage to your vehicle. Contact your insurer to arrange a tow truck if the damage is severe. Only use third-party tow truck operators that are registered with your insurance provider. This is to prevent out-of-pocket expenses on towing services. If your car can still be used, bring it to the nearest police station to lodge a report.
2. Gather evidence
Record the location and time of the accident before making a police report. Get the personal particulars such as name and phone numbers of the parties involved in the accident. This comes in handy if you need to contact them to remind them to report the accident to the police. Besides, take pictures of the accident, including the location, vehicles involved, damage to your car (if any), road tax and the identity cards of third parties on the spot.
3. Make a police report
As mentioned before, if your vehicle is safe to use, take it to the nearest police station to report the accident. Otherwise, wait for the help of a tow truck to bring it to the police station. Remember that a police report must be made within 24 hours of the accident. You may be issued a fine for delays in reporting the incident beyond the stipulated time.
4. Notify your insurer
Inform the insurance company of the accident within seven (7) days from the accident date. You are advised to submit an accident insurance claim as soon as you receive the police investigation report. Since a police investigation may take up to 14 working days, your insurer may advise you to submit a claim first while waiting for the police to produce the investigation report. In this case, follow the advice of your insurer.
5. Send the vehicle to a panel workshop
Request a complete list of car panel workshops from your insurance company. This helps you identify a workshop that is in close proximity to your house. Send your vehicle to a trusted service centre. Ensure the car is repaired correctly and the mechanics use genuine spare parts as replacements.
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