How to Claim Motor Insurance Due to Cyclone Damage?

Cyclones are formed due to rise of the warm moist air over the ocean’s surface. As this air moves higher and higher, it creates a low-pressure belt near the surface of the water thereby pulling in more and more cool air which again rises upwards and the cycle goes on. This warm moist air goes on to cool the water in the air to form clouds. This system of clouds and wind spins and grows being fed by the heat of the ocean and the water evaporating from it. It continues to rotate faster and faster to form the eye of the cyclone. The first half of 2021 witnessed two cyclone that had disastrous effects on either coastline of the country. Not only do these high intensity winds and rain cause damage to lifeform, but also property like homes, cars, bike, public utilities and many more. It is often observed that trees are uprooted during such cyclones thereby damaging the vehicles parked nearby. At these times, a motor insurance policy comes handy to safeguard against the damage to vehicles. When you purchase a vehicle insurance policy, there are two types to choose from – a third-party cover or a comprehensive policy. Since a third-party policy offers limited coverage for third-party legal liabilities, a comprehensive plan is a better alternative to protect your vehicle from the damages due to cyclones and other form of natural disasters. A comprehensive policy also covers the damages due to theft and other man-made disasters. *Standard T&C Apply Here’s what you need to do for damages to your car or bike in the event of a cyclone –

• Intimating the insurance company

The first step in the event of such a damage to your vehicle is to inform your insurance company. This needs to be done so that the insurer is aware of any damage to your vehicle. Every car and bike insurance policy has a defined timeline in which these losses need to be reported.

• Avoid turning on your vehicle

During a cyclone, waterlogging is often observed in the affected areas. If your vehicle is submerged in such water, do not crank up the engine. It might lead to water ingression, i.e. water entering the engine chamber, resulting in a hydrostatic lock. It is best to wait for the water to recede and then get it checked by a service technician for any damages.

• Document the evidence

Bike and car insurance companies often require evidence that form part of the claim application. With the access of a smartphone available to all, you can click picture evidencing the damage caused to your car or bike. Once the vehicle is sent for repairs, these pictures are your only evidence, hence, click as many of them.

• Wait for surveyor’s report

Depending on the type of policy, i.e. cashless or reimbursement plan, you might be required to wait for the surveyor’s report before making any repairs. Insurance companies have tie-up with several service stations known as network garage for cashless settlement of claims. If you have a cashless policy, you need to wait for the surveyor’s report assessing the quantum of the damage only after which repairs can be initiated. Also in case the damage is severe such that the claim amount exceeds 75% of the insured declared value, it is termed as a constructive total loss and it needs to be certified by an insurance surveyor. *Standard T&C Apply

• Submission of the documents

Once you have obtained the surveyor’s report assessing the damage, you can begin with the repairs for a cashless policy. The same is not the case for reimbursement plans where you need to provide invoices of the repairs that are carried out which are paid later by the insurance company depending on the terms of your contract. Insurance is a financial shield against the damages due to such natural perils, however you need to follow the laid down procedure and its timelines to ensure a hassle-free and smooth compensation. Thus, do not ignore the advantage of a motor insurance policy that can save you hefty repair costs at times of such natural disasters. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms and conditions, please read sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.