Car Insurance Claim Process - Step-By-Step Guide For Cashless Claims

Filing a car insurance claim can seem stressful - especially after an accident - but the process is simpler than most drivers realize.

Whether you’re in Hyderabad or any other part of Telangana, cashless claim facilities have made it faster and more transparent to get your car repaired and back on the road.

In this guide, we’ll walk through each step of the car insurance claim process - from reporting the incident to receiving claim approval - and explain what documents you’ll need, what timelines to expect, and how to ensure your claim is processed smoothly.

We’ll also share insider tips on how to avoid claim rejection and how PolicyBachat helps you track your claims across multiple insurers in one place.

Types Of Car Insurance Claims

A Break-in Renewal happens when your car insurance policy lapses - meaning the renewal date has passed, and you no longer have active coverage.

If the lapse is short (typically less than 90 days), you can still renew online, but insurers may ask for a quick inspection before reactivating coverage.

Important:

Driving without a valid policy is illegal under the Motor Vehicles Act. So even a single day’s gap can expose you to fines and risks.

Why Policies Lapse

• Missed renewal reminders or date oversight.
• Waiting to switch insurers but missing the overlap window.
• Payment failure or incomplete online transaction.
• Extended car repairs or vehicle inactivity.
• Miscommunication with agents or banks (for auto-debit renewals).

How Long Can You Wait Before It’s Too Late

There are two main types of claims you can file under your policy:

Cashless is preferred because it’s faster and easier - provided the garage is in the insurer’s approved network.

Step-By-Step: Cashless Claim Process

1. Report the incident immediately.
• Call your insurer’s toll-free number or log into your PolicyBachat account.
• Provide basic details: policy number, car number, location, and brief description.
2. Get claim reference number.
• This is used for all future communication and claim tracking.
3. Take photos and video proof.
• Capture damage from multiple angles.
• Include close-ups of number plate and surroundings.
4. Tow or drive to an authorized garage.
• Choose a cashless partner garage (PolicyBachat shows local options for Hyderabad).
• Towing assistance is often covered under RSA add-on.
5. Submit documents.
• RC copy, DL copy, policy copy, claim form, and photos.
• Some insurers accept digital uploads via email or app.
6. Survey and inspection.
• Insurer appoints a surveyor (usually within 24 hours).
• Estimate is prepared jointly by surveyor and garage.
7. Approval and repair.
• Once approved, repairs begin immediately.
• You’ll receive SMS/email updates throughout the process.
8. Settlement and delivery.
• Insurer pays the garage directly for approved items.
• You pay only for depreciation, consumables, or voluntary deductible.
• Take invoice and satisfaction note before collecting car.

Documents Required

Claim Timeline (Average)

(Cashless claims are generally completed faster than reimbursements.)

Localized Data For Hyderabad

• Avg. claim settlement time: 7 days.
• Top cashless garage networks: SpeedFix Auto, CarCare Plus, AutoPro Garage.
• Most common claims: Minor collision, e.g. bumper or side-door damage.
• Average claim size: ₹18,500.
• Insurers with best turnaround: HDFC ERGO, ICICI Lombard, Bajaj Allianz.

Common Reasons For Claim Rejection

1. Driving without a valid DL or under intoxication.
2. Policy expired at the time of accident.
3. Delay in claim reporting beyond 48 hours.
4. Unauthorized repairs before surveyor visit.
5. Mismatch in driver details or policyholder name.
6. Damage not matching claimed incident (e.g., pre-existing dents).

How To Avoid Claim Delays

• Always report immediately - even minor incidents.
• Keep policy soft copy saved on your phone.
• Renew policy before expiry to avoid disputes.
• Choose Zero Dep add-on for full coverage.
• Use PolicyBachat’s claim tracking dashboard for real-time updates.

Theft Claims (Special Case)

If your car is stolen:

1. File FIR at the nearest police station immediately.
2. Inform insurer within 24 hours.
3. Provide FIR, RC, DL, and keys (if applicable).
4. Cooperate with police investigation.
5. Claim settlement initiated after “non-traceable certificate.”
6. Insurer pays full IDV amount after approval.

Natural Calamity Or Fire Claims

In case of flood, fire, or cyclone damage:

• Don’t attempt to start the car - it can worsen damage.
• Take photos and inform insurer.
• PolicyBachat or insurer arranges towing and inspection.
• Settlement is processed under Own Damage (OD) section.