What is Own Damage Claim in Motor Insurance?
An own damage claim is a type of insurance claim filed by the policyholder to cover damage to their own vehicle, regardless of fault. This type of claim is typically made when the policyholder is involved in an accident with another vehicle, an object (such as a tree or pole), or a natural disaster (such as a flood or hail storm).
Types of Own Damage Claims
There are two main types of own damage claims:
- Collision claims: These claims are filed when a policyholder’s vehicle collides with another vehicle or object.
- Non-collision claims: These claims are filed when a policyholder’s vehicle is damaged by something other than a collision, such as a natural disaster, vandalism, or theft.
How to File an Own Damage Claim
To file an own damage claim, the policyholder must first contact their insurance company and report the damage. The insurance company will then assign an adjuster to the claim. The adjuster will inspect the damage and determine the amount of the claim.
The policyholder may be required to provide the insurance company with documentation to support their claim, such as:
- A police report
- Photographs of the damage
- Repair estimates
Benefits of Filing an Own Damage Claim
There are several benefits to filing an own damage claim, including:
- Financial protection: An own damage claim can help to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that you have insurance coverage can give you peace of mind in the event of an accident.
- Convenience: The insurance company will handle the claim process for you, so you don’t have to worry about dealing with the paperwork and hassle.
When to File an Own Damage Claim
You should file an own damage claim whenever you have damage to your vehicle that is covered by your insurance policy. However, there are some cases where it may not be worth filing a claim. For example, if the damage is minor and you can afford to pay for the repairs out of pocket, you may not want to file a claim.
How to Avoid Own Damage Claims
There are several things you can do to avoid filing an own damage claim, including:
- Drive safely: The best way to avoid an accident is to drive safely. Obey the speed limit, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid distractions.
- Park your car in a safe place: When you park your car, choose a well-lit and secure location. This will help to reduce the risk of your car being vandalized or stolen.
- Keep your car in good condition: Regular maintenance can help to prevent car problems that could lead to an accident.
Conclusion
Own damage claims are an important part of motor insurance. They can help to protect you financially in the event of an accident. By understanding the different types of own damage claims and how to file a claim, you can ensure that you have the coverage you need to protect your vehicle.
