How to File a Motor Insurance Claim in India — Step by Step Guide
By 7Shield Advisors · Updated May 2025 · 6 min read
Had an accident? Call us immediately.
Our team at 7Shield Advisors guides you through the entire claim process so you get the maximum amount. Don't wait — call +91 70056 49569 or WhatsApp us right now.
An accident is stressful, and the last thing you want to deal with is confusing paperwork and back-and-forth with your insurer. Follow these steps carefully and your claim will be settled faster and more completely.
Two Types of Motor Claims
Before we begin, understand which type of claim you're making:
- Cashless Claim: Your car is repaired at a network garage. You pay nothing (except the deductible). The insurer pays the garage directly.
- Reimbursement Claim: You get your car repaired anywhere and pay the bill. You then submit documents to the insurer and get reimbursed.
We always recommend cashless claims — they are faster and you don't need to arrange cash upfront.
Step-by-Step Claim Process
Ensure Safety First
Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible. Check for injuries — call 108 (ambulance) if anyone is hurt. Do NOT admit fault or make any payments at the scene.
Take Photos and Videos
Photograph everything: your car's damage, the other vehicle, number plates, the accident location, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This is critical evidence for your claim.
File a Police FIR (if required)
For third-party claims, theft, or major accidents, an FIR is mandatory. For minor self-damage, an FIR may not be needed — check your policy. Get the FIR number and a copy.
Inform Your Insurer or Advisor Immediately
Call your insurance company's claim helpline within 24 hours of the accident. If you bought through 7Shield Advisors, call us directly — we'll notify the insurer on your behalf and guide you through each next step.
Take Your Vehicle to a Network Garage
For cashless claims, take your car to an authorised network garage. The insurer will assign a surveyor who will inspect the damage before repairs begin. Do not start repairs before the survey.
Submit Required Documents
You'll need to provide: Duly filled claim form, Copy of your policy, Copy of RC (Registration Certificate), Driver's licence, FIR copy (if applicable), Repair estimate from the garage.
Surveyor Inspection
The insurer sends a licensed surveyor to inspect the damage. Be present during the survey. Show all damage and provide full details of the incident. Don't hide anything — it can void your claim.
Repair and Claim Settlement
Once approved, repairs begin. For cashless claims, the insurer pays the garage directly. You only pay the compulsory deductible (usually ₹1,000–₹2,000) and any depreciation amount (if you don't have zero-dep cover).
Documents You Need Ready
- Original policy document / policy number
- Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
- Driver's licence of the person driving at the time
- FIR copy (for third-party accidents, theft)
- Photos/videos of the damage
- Repair estimate from the garage
- Signed claim form (provided by insurer)
Common Reasons for Claim Rejection — Avoid These
- Driving without a valid licence — always ensure your driving licence is valid
- Driving under influence — DUI voids your claim completely
- Delayed intimation — inform the insurer within 24–48 hours always
- Repairing before survey — wait for the surveyor before any repairs
- Policy lapsed — always renew before expiry, even by a day's lapse can complicate matters
- Using private vehicle for commercial purpose — if your private car was being used as a taxi, claim may be rejected
How 7Shield Advisors Helps at Claim Time
When you buy insurance through us, you don't just get a policy — you get an advocate. We:
- Notify the insurer on your behalf immediately
- Guide you to the nearest network garage in Guwahati
- Help you fill all documents correctly
- Follow up with the insurer's surveyor to speed up the process
- Negotiate if there is any dispute in the claim amount
- Ensure you receive the full amount you're entitled to
We have helped settle 500+ claims in the last 2 years for our clients across Assam.
Need Help With a Claim Right Now?
Contact us immediately and we'll handle the entire process for you.