Car Insurance - the value cars hold in our life!

First,inform your insurer immediately; either through their helpline, mobile app, or website. You’ll be guided to file a claim and submit basic details such as the date, time, and nature of the accident. The insurer may assign a surveyor to inspect the damage. Once the inspection is complete and the documents are verified, the car can be sent for repairs, and the claim will be settled as per your policy type.

In a cashless claim, your car is repaired at one of the insurer’s network garages, and the insurer pays the garage directly. You only cover costs not included in your policy. In a reimbursement claim, you pay the garage first, submit the bills and claim form, and the insurer refunds the eligible amount later.

You’ll typically need the policy copy, driving licence, RC of the vehicle, FIR (for major accidents or theft), and the claim form. For reimbursement claims, repair bills and payment receipts are also required. Always check your insurer’s document checklist before submission.

It depends on the type of claim and how quickly documents are submitted. Cashless claims are often processed within a few days after the survey, while reimbursement claims can take longer due to bill verification. Prompt communication and complete paperwork help speed up the process.

If you make a claim during the policy period, your NCB for that year is lost. However, if the claim amount is minor, it’s worth checking if forgoing the claim helps you retain your accumulated NCB, which can offer significant discounts during renewal.

A zero-depreciation claim means the insurer pays the full cost of replacing damaged parts without factoring in depreciation. This add-on is useful for new or high-value cars, as it reduces your out-of-pocket expenses during repairs.

Yes, you can. But for cashless repairs, it’s better to visit a network garage tied up with your insurer, as they handle billing directly with the company. If you prefer a non-network garage, you can still go ahead, but you’ll need to pay upfront and later claim reimbursement.

Delaying the intimation can cause issues. Insurers usually require notification within 24 hours of the incident. Late reporting may lead to claim rejection, especially if the delay affects the survey or verification process. Always inform your insurer at the earliest opportunity.

Yes, comprehensive car insurance covers theft, fire, and natural calamities such as floods, earthquakes, or storms. In case of theft, file an FIR immediately and inform your insurer with all required documents. For flood or fire damage, follow the same claim process as for accidents.

A car is considered a total loss when repair costs exceed about 75% of its Insured Declared Value (IDV). In such cases, the insurer pays you the IDV after deducting applicable charges. Once settled, the car’s RC is surrendered, and the claim is closed.

A standard comprehensive policy protects your car against accidents, theft, fire, natural disasters, and third-party liability. Depending on the add-ons, it can also cover engine damage, roadside assistance, and depreciation on parts.

Typical exclusions include mechanical breakdown, normal wear and tear, damage due to driving under influence, and intentional damage. Certain natural calamities or accessories may also need separate coverage.

Premiums are influenced by car make and model, age of the vehicle, location, IDV, coverage type, add-ons, and your claim history. Personal factors like driving experience or previous violations may also be considered.

Yes, newer cars usually attract higher premiums due to higher replacement costs, while older cars have lower premiums but may need higher add-on coverage.

Urban areas with higher traffic, theft rates, or accident likelihood usually have higher premiums. Smaller towns or rural areas often attract lower rates due to reduced risk.

A deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before the insurer covers the rest. Choosing a higher deductible lowers your premium, but increases your out-of-pocket expense during a claim.

You can reduce premiums by opting for a higher voluntary deductible, maintaining a claim-free record, avoiding unnecessary add-ons, and comparing quotes online before purchase.

Yes, any after-market modifications, such as alloy wheels, upgraded stereo, or engine tuning, may raise the premium. Insurers may require disclosure to avoid claim rejection.

NCB rewards you for a claim-free year. You get a discount on your premium during renewal, which can range from 20% to 50% depending on consecutive claim-free years.

Choosing a lower IDV reduces your premium but limits the maximum claim payout. In case of total loss or theft, you may receive significantly less than the car’s actual market value.

Yes, it lowers your premium, sometimes substantially. However, you’ll pay more out of pocket when filing a claim, so it’s a trade-off between upfront savings and potential claim costs.

Longer tenure policies lock in premiums and reduce renewal hassle. Some insurers offer slightly lower average annual premiums for multi-year policies, but changes in IDV or car condition may affect claims later.

IRDAI regulates guidelines and pricing for third-party insurance, ensuring fairness. Comprehensive insurance premiums are decided by insurers but must comply with IRDAI regulations and approval.

Yes, CNG or LPG modifications carry higher fire and accident risks, so insurers may charge slightly higher premiums. Specialized add-ons or coverage may be required.

Add-ons enhance coverage by protecting against depreciation, engine damage, roadside emergencies, or return-to-invoice costs. While they increase the premium, they reduce your out-of-pocket expenses in case of specific incidents.

Yes, driving without at least a third-party insurance policy is illegal under the Motor Vehicles Act. It protects you and others in case of accidents.

You could face hefty fines, legal action, or even vehicle seizure. Additionally, you will have to pay for any damages or injuries out of your own pocket, which can be financially devastating.

Third-party insurance covers damages or injuries caused to someone else. Own-damage insurance protects your own car against accidents, theft, fire, and natural disasters. A comprehensive policy combines both.

Comprehensive policies cover accidents, theft, fire, natural calamities, and third-party liability. Exclusions usually include mechanical breakdown, normal wear and tear, driving under influence, and intentional damage. Add-ons can extend coverage further.

You can check your policy status via your insurer’s website, mobile app, or by calling their customer support. Keep your policy number handy. Many insurers also send renewal reminders before expiry.

Yes, the existing policy can be transferred to the new owner. The insurer will adjust the premium based on the remaining policy period. This ensures continuity and avoids lapses.

A lapse occurs when the policy expires without renewal. Some insurers allow renewal within a grace period, often with penalties or additional verification. Beyond this, a fresh policy is usually required.

Yes, but coverage depends on the policy. Third-party liability covers injuries to others. Own-damage or comprehensive policies may include personal accident cover for the driver and passengers, sometimes with a fixed sum insured.

Yes, as long as the person has a valid driving license and permission from the owner. Policies may exclude claims if the car is driven by an unlicensed or unauthorized driver.

Look at claim settlement ratio, customer service, coverage options, add-ons, and premium rates. Online reviews and comparison tools can help. A reliable partner like SMC Insurance combines comprehensive coverage with fast claims support.