Floods and waterlogging are a common problem during monsoon in India, which causes huge damage to cars and two-wheelers. Engine, electrical system, interior and body parts get damaged due to immersion in water. In such a situation, a comprehensive insurance policy protects you financially. Third party insurance only covers damage caused to others, whereas a comprehensive policy is necessary for damage to your own vehicle.
This includes natural disasters like flood, cyclone. Taking the Engine Protect add-on can also cover problems like hydrostatic lock. Filing the claim on time and having the correct documents makes the process easier. Companies fast-track claims under IRDAI guidelines. If you are careful, you can get full compensation, be it repair or total loss. Let us know which steps can be followed to get the insurance money?
What to do immediately if your vehicle gets damaged in floods
In case of flood, first ensure the safety of yourself and your family. If the vehicle is stuck in water, do not start it. This can cause hydraulic lock due to water entering the engine, which leads to claim rejection. Disconnect the battery if possible. Do not move the vehicle yourself. Get towed with the help of the insurer.
Take photos and video of the damage. All around the vehicle, showing the engine, dashboard, seats, water level and surroundings. This evidence helps a lot in claim processing. Do not clean the vehicle even after the water recedes, wait until the surveyor arrives. Avoid roadside parking and choose higher ground.
Notify the insurance company immediately
Report the incident within 24-48 hours. Delay may result in claim rejection. Do intimation through the company's helpline number, app, website or agent. Provide policy number, vehicle details, date and place of incident. Note down the claim registration number.
Most companies offer roadside assistance, which provides towing facilities. The same process is applicable for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. According to IRDAI, claims due to natural disaster are given priority. Also keep these important documents ready-
- copy of insurance policy
- Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
- driving license
- photo/video of damage
- Claim Form (Digital or Physical)
- If the vehicle is washed away then file an FIR in the police station
- NOC from the financier if the vehicle is financed
- AML documents like PAN card and Aadhaar (for large claims)
File the claim online by uploading these documents. In many cases, garage estimate is also helpful.
Surveyor Inspection and Claim Assessment
After giving information, the insurance company sends a surveyor. He physically inspects the vehicle, assesses the damage and prepares a report. Do not get any repairs done until the surveyor arrives.
If the repair cost is more than 75% of the IDV (Insured Declared Value) then it can be considered a total loss and payment is made on the basis of IDV (less deductible). Cashless facility is available in some network garages. If not, then reimbursement also happens. The same rule is applicable in two-wheelers also.
Total loss or loss of vehicle
If the vehicle is washed away in the flood and is not found then lodge an FIR. Get a non-traceable certificate from the police. After this the insurance company settles the claim on the basis of IDV. If the loss is high even after being located, it is considered a total loss.
Claim Settlement and Tips
After submitting all the documents the claim should be settled within 30 days. Interest may be charged on delay under IRDAI rules. Cashless repairs will be easy if you choose a network garage. Avoid common mistakes like delay, wrong documents or not starting the vehicle.
Check the policy before the season, take engine protect and zero depreciation add-ons. Keep digital copies of documents. This will keep the claim process fast and transparent. In this way, by filing the claim carefully, the vehicle owner gets financial relief even in times of crisis like flood.