Car insurance companies use complex estimation values to determine your car insurance premium. A layperson needs to comprehend the calculations fully.
However, most of us are aware of various actions that can result in higher insurance rates or even the cancellation of your insurance policy. If you file fewer claims, your insurance premiums may rise, and your coverage may be terminated.
When you find a small dent in your car, hit it, or break your wing mirror while parking, the first thing that comes to mind is- Thank God! My car is protected!
However, remember that claiming minor scratches or dents can be costly. It’s only sometimes a wise idea to file a claim after a bit of ding or bumping. Let’s look at some scenarios where not filing a car insurance claim is the ideal thing to do.
When you shouldn’t file a claim –
Unfortunately, no hard and fast rule determines whether you should file a car insurance claim. Why did you get a car insurance policy before filing a claim? What is covered in car insurance? If you took it for dent repair, file a claim. You should reconsider your decision if you purchased the plan to protect yourself against the unaffordable, crippling costs of accidents and other unfortunate events.
To give an example, say if you hit a pole and damage your vehicle, you may want to pay for the repairs to avoid affecting your NCB percentage. You should only consider filing a claim if the car damage is Rs. 5000.
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However, if you collide with another vehicle and the damage is less than Rs. 5000, you should try to persuade the other driver not to report the incident. After an accident, it is required by law to exchange insurance information. However, if you can afford to pay for the car repairs out of your pocket, you may save money in the long run.
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You should estimate the repair costs because they can be tricky, and you should file a claim within the specified time frame if you overestimated or underestimated the repair costs.
If, on the other hand, you are involved in an accident, and the other driver is at fault, the situation becomes more complicated. You may not file a claim if you believe the other driver will pay for your repairs. Remember, filing a claim can raise your insurance premiums even if you are not at fault in an accident.
When should you file a claim?
There are several incidents where failing to file a claim can be dangerous. You should know how to claim car insurance and file a claim if the other driver was injured in the accident. Similarly, you won’t have a choice because the other driver will undoubtedly file a claim with his insurer. If you or your passenger were injured, you would also almost certainly file a claim. Medical expenses from car accidents are unpredictable and can quickly spiral out of control.
Filing a claim can result in a 20-40% increase in car insurance premiums. To avoid years of additional costs following a car accident, carefully consider whether filing a claim is the ideal option.
* Standard T&C Apply
## All savings are provided by the insurer as per the IRDAI-approved insurance plan. Standard T&C apply
Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.