Filing a car insurance claim especially in the aftermath of an accident can be stressful. However, understanding the steps involved can make the procedure smoother and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. In this article, we will provide a guide to help you navigate the claim process efficiently.
What is an insurance claim?
An insurance claim is a formal request for coverage to your insurer for a collision, vandalism, theft or other covered events. Once accepted, the insurance provider investigates the claim for authenticity and pays out to the insured or requesting party (on behalf of the insured).
How to document the scene for your car insurance claim
In a previous article here https://ke.cicinsurancegroup.com/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-in-kenya/ , we discussed what to do in the event of an accident and how to document the scene. It is important to have up-to-date documentation of your auto insurance plan, well-documented evidence in photos or video of the scene, and keep in mind details as you might need to make a report.
How to file for an auto insurance claim
- Upon notification of the accident to the police, you will be required to get a police abstract.
- If you have not notified your agent or insurer, ensure you do so immediately whether you intend to claim or not. Share photos or videos taken at the scene of the accident and any other details required.
- After getting the abstract, your insurer or agent will issue you with a claim form which you are required to fill.
- Submit the original abstract, filled claim form, driver’s ID and driving license.
From this point, the insurer will start processing the claim by following the steps below
- Assessment of the vehicle at your choice of garage or their assessment center.
- If the information provided in the claim form and the assessment report match, the insurer, therefore, proceeds to authorize repairs or issue a cash in lieu offer (this refers to the option of giving one cash for repairs instead of repairing it for the client).
- If there are any noticeable inconsistencies, the insurer may call you for further clarification and/or engage an investigator for validation of the claim.
- Subject to the investigation findings, the insurer will proceed to admit the claim either through issuance of repair authority, cash in lieu discharge voucher or total loss discharge voucher.
Sometimes, the claim process can be stressful, but not with us. Our experienced staff will guide you through the process to the end. To file a claim with us, follow https://ke.cicinsurancegroup.com/claims/. At CIC, we keep our word.
