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:
| Claim Type |
Description |
| Cashless Claim |
The insurer directly pays the garage. You pay only deductibles and non-covered parts. Preferred because it’s faster and easier - provided the garage is in the insurer’s approved network. |
| Reimbursement Claim |
You pay for repairs upfront and get reimbursed later by your insurer. |
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
- 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.
- Get claim reference number.
- This is used for all future communication and claim tracking.
- Take photos and video proof.
- Capture damage from multiple angles.
- Include close-ups of number plate and surroundings.
- 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.
- Submit documents.
- RC copy, DL copy, policy copy, claim form, and photos.
- Some insurers accept digital uploads via email or app.
- Survey and inspection.
- Insurer appoints a surveyor (usually within 24 hours).
- Estimate is prepared jointly by surveyor and garage.
- Approval and repair.
- Once approved, repairs begin immediately.
- You’ll receive SMS/email updates throughout the process.
- 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
| Document |
Purpose |
| Insurance Policy Copy |
Proof of active coverage |
| RC Book |
Confirms vehicle ownership |
| Driving License |
Confirms authorized driver |
| Claim Form |
Signed declaration for claim |
| FIR/Police Report |
Required in theft or third-party injury cases |
| Photos & Videos |
Visual proof of damage |
| Repair Estimate |
Provided by garage |
Claim Timeline (Average)
| Step |
Duration |
| Claim Registration |
10-15 minutes |
| Surveyor Visit |
Within 24 hours |
| Claim Approval |
1-2 working days |
| Repair & Delivery |
2-5 working days |
| Reimbursement (if applicable) |
3-7 working days
(Cashless claims are generally completed faster than reimbursements.) |
(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 General.
Common Reasons For Claim Rejection
- Driving without a valid DL or under intoxication.
- Policy expired at the time of accident.
- Delay in claim reporting beyond 48 hours.
- Unauthorized repairs before surveyor visit.
- Mismatch in driver details or policyholder name.
- 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:
- File FIR at the nearest police station immediately.
- Inform insurer within 24 hours.
- Provide FIR, RC, DL, and keys (if applicable).
- Cooperate with police investigation.
- Claim settlement initiated after “non-traceable certificate.”
- 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.
FAQs
How soon should I report an accident?
Within 24-48 hours of the incident.
What is a cashless claim?
The insurer directly settles the repair bill with the garage.
Can I choose any garage?
For cashless, pick from authorized partner garages.
What if I repair before inspection?
Claim may be rejected - always wait for surveyor approval.
How many claims can I file in a year?
Unlimited, but multiple claims may affect NCB.
Do I lose NCB after a claim?
Yes, unless you have an NCB Protect add-on.
What if the damage is minor?
Sometimes better to pay out-of-pocket to retain NCB.
Can I file a claim for windshield damage?
Yes, if covered under comprehensive policy.
Do electric cars follow the same claim process?
Yes, though certain parts require authorized EV service centers.
How long does claim settlement take?
Usually 3-5 working days for cashless claims.
Are personal belongings covered?
Only if you have Personal Effects add-on.
Is FIR mandatory for all claims?
No, only for theft or third-party injury.
Can I track claim status online?
Yes, through PolicyBachat or insurer portals.
What if the accident happened outside Telangana?
You can still file a claim anywhere in India.
Do insurers offer pickup and drop for repairs?
Yes, many include doorstep assistance in metro cities.
Customer Reviews
- “Filed my first claim - everything was handled online. Super smooth.” - Ravi T., Bengaluru
- “Surveyor came same day; car delivered in 3 days.” - Kavita N., Delhi
- “Cashless claim worked exactly as promised.” - Sneha D., Hyderabad
- “Got full Zero Dep payout with no dispute.” - Arjun M., Chennai
- “Appreciated PolicyBachat’s live claim tracking updates.” - Priya S., Mumbai
- “Transparent process - no hidden charges.” - Ramesh P., Pune
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