Accidents on Indian roads are unfortunately common, and so are the complexities that follow, especially regarding insurance claims. Accident insurance claims help compensate for bodily injury, death, and damage to vehicles. Here’s how the process works.

What is Accident Insurance?
Accident insurance provides coverage in the event of injuries, disability, or death caused by an accident. Policies can be part of a motor vehicle insurance plan or taken independently.

Types of Claims:

• Third-Party Claims: Filed by the victim against the vehicle owner.

• Own Damage Claims: Filed by the insured against their own policy for vehicle damage.

• Personal Accident Claims: For injuries or death suffered by the insured person.

Filing a Claim – Key Steps:

1. Report the accident to the police and get a copy of the FIR.

2. Notify your insurance company promptly.

3. Gather documents: FIR, insurance policy, medical bills, repair bills, ID proof, driving license, RC.

4. Submit claim with required paperwork.

5. Survey & approval by insurance assessor.

6. Claim settlement after review.

What You Should Know:

• Filing delays or inconsistent statements can cause rejection.

• In hit-and-run cases, compensation is available through Motor Accidents Claims Tribunal (MACT) under Section 161 of the Motor Vehicles Act.

• Death or serious injury cases can also involve compensation under Section 166.