How to File a Claim for Bike Damaged Due to a Cyclone?

Are Cyclones Covered Under Bike Insurance Policy?

As per the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988, all two-wheeler owners must have at least a third-party bike insurance policy. However, it is not enough to cover the damages caused to the own vehicle. You must have a comprehensive bike insurance policy to cover the damages caused in unforeseen situations, including the damages/loss caused by the cyclone.

Steps to Follow in Case Your Bike is Damaged in a Cyclone

If any tree or structure collapses on the insured bike during a cyclone, do not try to remove it. Instead, you can follow the below procedure to repair your motorcycle:

1. Inform the insurance company

   If a cyclone or a natural disaster has caused damage to your bike, you should first inform your bike insurance company. If you have purchased the bike policy from Policybazaar.com, you can easily connect with our claim assistance team through a dedicated toll-free number, WhatsApp, and email.

   For major accidents or severe cases, the IRDA (Insurance Regulatory Development Authority of India) contact the insurance provider to offer a fast-track online claim settlement process. It is recommended to keep your bike insurance documents ready and registration details accessible.

2. Collect all the evidence

   After filing a claim:

   • Take clear pictures and videos from all angles of the damaged bike.
   • Shoot a video of all the dents reflecting on your bike.
   • Ensure all the photos and videos are clear, as you will have to share these media files with the surveyor when accessing damages.

3. Submit necessary documents

   Once you inform the claim settlement team about the damage, submit essential documents, including two-wheeler insurance policy details, driving license, and pictorial evidence. You will receive a bike insurance claim number from the insurance provider for online tracking upon submission.

4. Vehicle inspection by the surveyor

   Next, the insurer arranges for an inspector or surveyor to assess the damages during the vehicle inspection process. You are advised to provide accurate & precise information during the inspection. Further, the surveyor will submit the assessment report to the insurance company.

5. Repair your bike

   Next, send your bike to the nearest garage for repairs. If you have chosen cashless repairs, send it to an authorized network garage, while if you have selected reimbursement repairs, you can send your damaged bike to any garage in your locality.

6. Claims Settlement

   The insurance company decides the claim amount based on the surveyor report and repair estimate. The claims are settled directly with the network garage in case of cashless repairs. However, the repairing expenses are reimbursed to your authorized bank account if it is a reimbursement settlement process.

   People also read Bike Insurance Benefits in Case of Natural Disasters

Things to Keep in Mind When Your Bike is Damaged in Cyclone

If your insured bike is submerged in a cyclone, it is crucial to take all precautionary actions to prevent further harm. Here are some key pointers that you should keep in mind:

• Avoid Starting the Engine: Resist yourself to start or push-start it if it is submerged in the water. Doing so can lead to severe damage to the bike’s engine.
• Notify Your Insurer: Inform about the cyclone-induced damages to your insurance provider.
• Collect the Evidence: Collect the evidence of submerged bike, including pictures and videos. This will help in a hassle-free claim filing process.
• Await Assistance: Once you have notified the insurance provider, await assistance. Depending on your policy coverage, the company will process and settle the claim accordingly.

Moreover, only proceed with repairs after informing the insurer. Repairing it without notifying may result in claim rejection.

Filing bike insurance claims is a streamlined process. To prevent delays or rejections, adhere to guidelines such as timely reporting, truthful information, avoiding repairs before informing the insurer, and choosing the right network garages. In addition, ensure your two-wheeler insurance policy is active before proceeding with the claim.

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