Why Timely Reporting Is More Important Than Ever
In the event of a theft or accident, speed is your best ally. Notifying the authorities and your insurance provider as soon as possible isn’t just a best practice—it’s critical for claim approval.
Delayed reporting can raise suspicion about fraud or tampering, especially in theft cases. Insurers rely on timely information to launch investigations, verify incidents, and assist law enforcement. While there’s no strict legal deadline, informing both the police and insurer within 24 hours is widely recommended for smoother processing.
Recent consumer court decisions—such as Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Co. vs. Rajesh Kumar—have supported policyholders who at least report the theft promptly to the police, even if insurer intimation comes a bit later. Still, insurers maintain that the sooner they know, the better they can help with recovery and expedite your claim.
What To Do Immediately After Your Car Is Stolen
If your car goes missing, taking the right steps quickly can make a huge difference:
Report to the police immediately and ensure the case is registered as an FIR.
Follow up to ensure that the theft details are circulated across checkpoints, toll booths, and neighboring jurisdictions.
Inform your insurance company without delay. Even if you’re still coordinating with the police, let your insurer know right away.
Prompt intimation allows insurers to begin their own investigation, which could even aid in vehicle recovery using their private tracking networks.
Essential Documents You’ll Need
To support your insurance claim, having a complete set of documents is crucial. Missing paperwork is one of the top reasons claims get stalled or denied.
For Theft Claims:
First Information Report (FIR) from the police
A copy of the insurance policy
Registration Certificate (RC)
Valid driver’s licence
Original vehicle keys
Purchase invoice or receipts (if available)
Recent photographs of the vehicle
Notarised affidavit (as requested)
Non-traceable certificate from the police (if the car isn’t recovered)
For Accident Claims:
Duly filled claim form
Valid policy copy
RC and driving licence
Repair estimate from the garage
Timelines: What to Expect
Understanding how long the process takes can help manage expectations:
Accident claims are typically settled within 7 to 10 working days after submitting complete documentation. According to IRDAI guidelines, insurers must settle these within 30 days.
Theft claims take longer—often 3 to 4 months or more—due to the time needed to obtain a non-traceable certificate from the police, which confirms that the vehicle hasn’t been found.
Common Reasons for Claim Rejections—and How to Avoid Them
1. Delayed Reporting
Waiting too long to inform either the police or the insurer can result in outright denial. Always act fast.
2. Incomplete or Missing Documentation
Claims without required documents often face rejection. Keep checklists and store digital backups where possible.
3. Violation of Policy Terms
Driving under the influence, using the vehicle for unauthorized purposes (like commercial use when it’s privately insured), or making unapproved modifications can void your policy.
4. Unapproved Repairs
Getting your vehicle repaired without insurer approval or failing to provide receipts can lead to claim denials.
Maximize Your Protection with Add-ons
While a basic policy covers standard situations, certain add-ons can significantly improve your claim experience:
Zero Depreciation Cover: Ensures that you receive the full cost of repairs without deductions for depreciation on parts.
Return to Invoice Cover: If your vehicle is stolen or declared a total loss, this add-on allows you to claim the original invoice value of the car, not just the depreciated market value.
What To Do If Your Claim Is Denied
If your insurer has turned down your claim, you still have several options:
1. Contact the insurer’s grievance redressal officer to seek a formal explanation or resolution.
2. If unsatisfied, escalate the issue through IRDAI’s Bima Bharosa portal, which allows consumers to raise complaints against insurers.
3. Next, consider approaching the Insurance Ombudsman, a free and impartial authority that handles disputes between insurers and policyholders.
4. If no resolution is reached, you can file a case in a consumer court to seek justice under consumer protection laws.
Pro Tips for a Hassle-Free Claim Process
Keep meticulous records: Save all correspondence, repair bills, photos, and receipts.
Understand your policy: Review the inclusions and exclusions thoroughly before filing a claim.
Act immediately: Don’t delay reporting incidents—fast action improves your chances of approval and may assist in recovery.
Consult your insurer for pre-approvals: Especially when it comes to repairs or towing services.
Based in New York, Stephen Freeman is a Senior Editor at Trending Insurance News. Previously he has worked for Forbes and The Huffington Post. Steven is a graduate of Risk Management at the University of New York.