Let's make an insurance claim in a proper way.

Trouble claiming your insurance?

Got copped on the way back from your Friday night drive? One of the trinity of documents that you should have in your possession is your insurance. Within the Sri Lankan constitution it is illegal to use a vehicle without insurance. When you get yourself into a bit of trouble driving you're definitely going to need your insurance but that does not guarantee that you can make a claim. Common folk have a misconception that no matter what the situation they'll be unable to make a claim, however that's not the case. Today let's discuss the lore around insurance and claims.

Notify your insurer first

If your vehicle is a party to an accident or some damage has happened to your car then you insurer should be the first to know. Take a look at your insurance card and dial the number shown in the card to let them know you've been in an accident.

Justify what happened

At the moment of your accident it may have caused damage to two separate parties or it might have been property damage and even might have been damage to a civilian or a person. In that situation your first step of action should be to contact your insurer and explain what exactly took place and justify the happenings within the time period. This is important as this is what marks the criteria for your insurance claim depending on the package you discussed upon with your insurer.

Was it a collision with another vehicle?

If you collide with another vehicle upon impact then you'll have to discuss with the other party present. Speak on which type of insurance covers them, whether it is full insurance or 3rd party insurance. Especially if it is full insurance then you'll need to collect details on the respective party and their insurer.

Property damage?

Regardless of the damage done to either private or government property you are required to notify the parties involved as well as your insurer.

3rd Party or Civilian involvement?

Your first course of action should be to make sure that the relevant party receives medical attention and inform the nearest police station on the situation.

How much can you claim?

At the time informing your insurer, an agent from the relevant corporation will arrive to make an estimate cost of repair depending on the situation. You'll have to present your license and insurance at the given time period. According to the estimate given by the agent you can either get a direct transfer to your listed bank account or rather if your feel that the compensation is not enough then you can proceed to move the vehicle into the garage where they will inspect and assess the state of the vehicle and provide an estimate to the insurer directly, covering the cost of repair

Even when you are required to purchase new parts for your vehicle due to the accident you should notify your insurer. If they are not informed then they have the right to reject your claims.

Now that you're well informed on the realm of insurance claims, you don't need to step down at every accident you face and receive rejected claims. Follow these steps and get your claim in the smoothest way possible.