A Simple Guide On How To File A Car Insurance Claim In Nigeria
When you buy insurance for your car, you do that not because you are praying for something bad to happen but because you know that there is always a possibility of such things happening. A simple logic I guess. It is therefore important for you to know and perfect how to file a car insurance claim.
You could have an accident, fire outbreak, vandalism or even flood to thank for destroying or damaging your car. Thank God you are alive because if you are dead, we will have an entirely new story and probably a new approach.
Now that you have survived the scare with your car which you insured with an eye for such eventualities, you will have to do the necessary things to get your insurance money. You will have to file an insurance claim.
Related: Top 9 car insurance tips in Nigeria
The benefits of knowing how to file a car insurance claim are enormous. It will save you a lot of headaches and unnecessary too much protocol.
If you really want to get maximum value for your insurance money, you will pay attention to the tips we will be sharing with you.
How To File A Car Insurance Claim In Nigeria
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Call your insurance agent or a local company representative
When your car is damaged as a result of involvement in any misfortune such as accident, flood, fire outbreak or vandalism, your first point of action should be to call your insurance agent or a local representative.
Your agent will help you with the necessary documents and forms that your company will require that you fill. These documents will support your claim.
Most times, the company will require a “proof of loss” form, as well as documents relating to your claims, such as medical and auto repair bills and a copy of the police report. Your agent will guide you.
2. You will need to hire a mechanic shop that gives guarantees and timeline for repairs.
Part of what you need to file a car insurance claim is to get an auto repair shop known as a mechanic shop in Nigeria. However, before you do this, you need to find out the settlement amount before you sign off on repairs.
Remember, your insurance policy has certain limits and deductibles which will guide you in knowing the exact settlement amount. Your insurance company can help you with a list of repair shops if you don’t know any reputable one.
3. Supply the information your insurer needs.
You will need to give your company maximum co-operation during the investigation, settlement or defense of any claim. Legal actions could be brought against you in connection with the car loss or damage. You will need to turn them over to the insurance company.
You will do well to remember that your insurer will defend you if you are sued in connection with the car loss or damage.
4. Remember to keep records of your expenses
With the incident leading to the car loss or damage, you are likely going spend some money. Depending on the extent of your coverage, your expenses may be reimbursed.
Also Read: 5 smart tips for online car insurance in Nigeria
Your medical expenses lost wages, the hiring of temporary housekeeper will be taken care of by the insurance company. It is therefore important that you keep a record of your expenditure. You will need them when you want to file a car insurance claim.
5. Keep copies of your paperwork
There will be so many paper works regarding your auto incident. It will be necessary that you make copies of your paper works because you will need them to file a car insurance claim. Don’t forget to store them safely.
6. You can always talk things over with your agent or an adjuster if you are dissatisfied with the settlement offer.
You will need to check your policy to see what settlement steps it outlines and compare it with what you are getting at that moment. You will need to speak your agent or an adjuster if you are not satisfied with the settlement.
Extra Tips On How To Handle A Car Accident Scene To Save You Stress When You File A Car Insurance Claim
After a car crash, you are not expected to do any of the following:
- Move any injured persons.
- Apologize for the crash.
- Tell any party how much insurance you carry.
- Accept any money. If you do, you forfeit your right to file a claim.
- Agree to forget about the accident. Later on, the other person may file a lawsuit against you.
