Owning a bike is a convenient and affordable way to commute, but accidents can happen when you least expect them. Whether your two-wheeler is damaged in a collision, by natural disasters, or during transit, a comprehensive bike insurance policy can help you cover the repair expenses. However, to get those benefits, you must know how to properly file a claim for own damage.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of filing a claim for your own bike damage, from what to do right after the incident to getting your settlement.
What is an Own Damage Claim in Bike Insurance?
An own damage (OD) claim refers to compensation you receive from your insurer for damage caused to your own bike. This is different from a third-party insurance claim, which covers damage caused to others.
Own damage insurance covers:
- Accidents and collisions
- Fire and explosions
- Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes, storms)
- Theft and vandalism (if covered)
- Damage during transit (by rail, road, or air)
Note: You need to have a comprehensive policy or a standalone own damage cover to file an OD claim. If you only have third-party insurance, own damage won’t be covered.
When Can You File an Own Damage Claim?
You can raise a claim under own damage insurance in the following scenarios:
- You crash your bike into a wall, vehicle, or object and it gets damaged.
- Your parked bike is damaged by a fallen tree or due to a storm.
- The vehicle catches fire or is partially damaged due to a short circuit.
- The vehicle is damaged in transit between cities or states.
However, if the damage is due to illegal use (like racing), or you were riding without a license or under the influence, your claim may be rejected.
Step-by-Step Process to Claim Own Damage Bike Insurance
Step 1: Inform Your Insurance Company
The first thing you must do is inform your insurer about the accident or damage. This must be done as soon as possible—usually within 24 to 48 hours after the incident.
You can inform your insurer by:
- Calling the customer care number
- Visiting their official website or mobile app
- Emailing their claims department
Share essential details like:
- Your policy number
- Time and location of the incident
- Description of the damage
- If any third party is involved
Step 2: Lodge an FIR (if needed)
For most own damage cases, an FIR is not mandatory, especially if the damage is minor and involves only your bike.
However, an FIR may be required when:
- There’s major damage
- You’re involved in a serious accident
- There is suspicion of vandalism or theft
Check your policy or ask your insurer if an FIR is needed for your situation.
Step 3: Take Photos of the Damage
Before moving or repairing your bike, take clear photos or videos of:
- The damaged areas from multiple angles
- The surroundings (especially if it’s an accident scene)
- Any third-party involvement, if applicable
These visuals will support your claim and help the insurer understand the extent of damage.
Step 4: File the Claim Form
You’ll need to fill out a claim form—either online or offline.
This form typically asks for:
- Policy number
- Details of the accident/damage
- Your vehicle registration number
- Your contact information
- Estimated repair costs (if known)
Once submitted, the insurer will register your claim and assign a claim reference number for tracking.
Step 5: Get the Vehicle Inspected
The insurance company will appoint a surveyor or inspector to evaluate the damage.
- The surveyor may visit your home, the accident location, or the garage.
- Do not move the vehicle or start repairs before inspection unless told otherwise.
The surveyor will assess the situation and submit a report to the insurance company, recommending whether to approve or reject the claim.
Step 6: Repair the Bike
You can now get your bike repaired, either via:
1. Cashless Garage
If you visit a network garage (partnered with your insurer), they’ll handle the paperwork and billing directly with the insurer.
- You pay only for parts not covered (like wear-and-tear or depreciation).
- The insurer settles the rest directly with the garage.
2. Reimbursement Claim
You can also go to any garage of your choice, pay for the repairs, and then submit the bills to your insurer for reimbursement.
- Make sure to keep all bills and receipts.
- You will be reimbursed after the insurer reviews the documents and approves the claim.
Documents Required to File an Own Damage Claim
Here’s a list of the documents generally required:
- Copy of your insurance policy
- Copy of your vehicle’s RC (registration certificate)
- Copy of your driving license
- Claim form (duly filled and signed)
- Photos of the damaged vehicle
- Original repair bill and payment receipt (for reimbursement claims)
- FIR copy (if applicable)
- Inspection report (from the insurer’s surveyor)
Always verify the list with your insurer, as document requirements may vary.
How is the Claim Amount Calculated?
Your insurer will calculate the payout based on:
- The extent of damage
- Depreciation on parts replaced
- Deductibles as mentioned in your policy
- The insured declared value (IDV) of the bike
If the repair cost exceeds the bike’s IDV or the bike is beyond repair, the insurer may declare it a total loss and pay you the IDV (after subtracting deductibles).
When Can an Own Damage Claim Be Rejected?
An insurer may deny your claim if:
- The damage occurred while riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- You were riding without a valid driving license
- The policy had expired or was inactive
- The damage was intentional or due to racing/illegal activity
- The repair was done before the surveyor inspected the vehicle
Tips to Ensure a Smooth Claim Process
- Read your policy terms carefully so you know what’s covered and what isn’t.
- Keep a digital and physical copy of your documents ready.
- Choose a cashless garage for faster and more convenient settlement.
- Don’t delay in reporting the accident or damage.
- Cooperate with the surveyor, and be honest in your statement.
Conclusion
Filing an own damage claim under your bike insurance may seem complicated, but it’s a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. From reporting the damage on time to submitting the necessary documents and choosing the right type of repair, being organized is key.
Having a comprehensive insurance policy not only fulfills your legal obligation but also acts as your financial safety net. So, if your bike gets damaged, don’t panic—just follow the procedure, and you’ll be back on the road in no time.
