An Own Damage Knock-for-Knock (OD-KFK) claim allows you to claim for damage to your car through your own insurer when another driver is responsible for the accident, subject to eligibility requirements. This route may make the repair process more straightforward because you deal with your own insurer. If your claim qualifies for OD-KFK, your No Claim Discount (NCD) generally remains unaffected.
However, not every accident qualifies for an OD-KFK claim. You generally need comprehensive car insurance, and the responsible driver must be identifiable and have the relevant insurance cover. Other conditions may also apply.
How Does an OD-KFK Claim Work?
In a standard third-party claim, if another driver causes the accident, you claim against that driver’s insurance company. With OD-KFK, you may instead claim through your own insurer if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Your insurer will assess the police report, accident evidence and supporting documents before deciding whether the claim qualifies. For a step-by-step guide to what to do after an accident, read BJAK’s car insurance claim process guide.
OD-KFK vs Own Damage vs Third-Party Claims
These three claim types follow different processes and can have different effects on your NCD. The appropriate route depends on who was responsible for the accident and your insurance cover.
Claim type
When it applies
Effect on NCD
OD-KFK
You were not at fault and meet the requirements to claim through your own insurer.
Generally unaffected if the claim qualifies.
Own Damage (OD)
You claim under your own comprehensive policy for covered damage, including accidents for which you are responsible.
Generally affected.
Third-party claim
You claim against the insurer of the party responsible for the accident.
Generally unaffected when claiming against the at-fault party, subject to applicable conditions.
According to Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), an eligible OD-KFK claim can allow a driver who was not at fault to claim through their own insurer without affecting their NCD.
Who Is Eligible for an OD-KFK Claim?
In general, you may be eligible for an OD-KFK claim if:
You have a valid comprehensive car insurance policy.
You were not responsible for the accident, based on the relevant assessment and confirmation.
The at-fault vehicle can be identified and has the relevant insurance cover.
The accident meets the applicable OD-KFK requirements.
A claim may not qualify in certain circumstances, such as when the accident involves a third-party bodily injury claim or a government or public vehicle. Contact your insurer to confirm eligibility based on the specific circumstances of your accident.
How to Make an OD-KFK Claim
If you are involved in an accident and believe the other driver was at fault, follow these steps.
1. Prioritise safety and collect evidence
Check for injuries and contact emergency services if needed. If it is safe, photograph the damage, accident scene and registration numbers of the vehicles involved. Collect the other driver’s details and keep any dashcam footage.
2. Make a police report
Make a police report within 24 hours, as required for road accidents in Malaysia. Explain what happened clearly and keep a copy of the report for your claim.
3. Contact your own insurer
Notify your insurance company or takaful operator about the accident. Explain that you would like to check whether you qualify for OD-KFK before proceeding with another claim route.
4. Prepare the required documents
Documents commonly requested include:
Police report.
Car insurance policy details or takaful certificate.
Identification and driving licence.
Vehicle registration details.
Accident photos and supporting evidence.
Completed claim form and any additional documents requested by your insurer.
The exact requirements depend on your insurer and the circumstances of the claim. Check the document list in advance to help avoid delays.
5. Wait for assessment and approval
Your insurer will assess the documents and vehicle damage before deciding whether the OD-KFK claim can proceed. Follow its instructions on inspections and approved workshops, and do not begin repairs before obtaining any required approval.
Will an OD-KFK Claim Affect Your NCD?
If your OD-KFK claim meets the applicable requirements, your NCD generally remains unaffected. This differs from a standard Own Damage claim, which generally affects your NCD at the next insurance renewal.
However, do not assume every accident that was not your fault automatically qualifies for OD-KFK. Your insurer must confirm the appropriate claim type and whether the relevant conditions are met.
Read BJAK’s guide to how NCD works to understand how insurance claims can affect your discount.
Conclusion
OD-KFK may make the repair process more straightforward and help preserve your NCD if you qualify. However, eligibility depends on the circumstances of the accident and the applicable claim requirements. After an accident, make a police report, collect evidence and contact your insurer before deciding which claim route is suitable.
If you qualify for OD-KFK, you can claim through your own insurer. You can also ask whether a third-party claim is more suitable for your circumstances.
Does an OD-KFK claim guarantee approval?
No. Your insurer still needs to assess the police report, accident evidence, liability and policy requirements before making a decision.
Can I make an OD-KFK claim if the other driver has no insurance?
OD-KFK generally requires the responsible vehicle to be identified and have the relevant insurance cover. If the other driver is uninsured, contact your insurer to find out what other claim options may be available.
How long does an OD-KFK claim take?
There is no fixed timeline for every claim. The duration depends on the documents, damage assessment, confirmation of liability and your insurer’s process. Contact your insurer using your claim reference number to check for updates.
Nabil Farhan· · 4 min read
