Understanding the causes of car accidents in India & car accident insurance claims

Road accidents are one of the common causes of injuries and fatalities in India. Despite stringent road safety rules, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways states a total of 4,41,312 road accidents for the year 2022 in its annual report. The department has implemented various robust measures to curb these casualties on the road. However, it is important to understand the causes of these accidents.

Here are some of the common causes of car accidents in India

1. Overspeeding contributes to 75% of road accidents and fatalities. High-speed driving reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.

2. Drunken driving is the next cause. Driving under the influence of alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, leading to accidents.

3. Driving on the wrong side, aggressive behaviour, and jumping a red light

4. Mobile phone usage and distracted driving also increase the risk of accidents.

5. Vehicular issues like poor vehicle maintenance, car defects, etc.

6. Weather conditions like fog, rain, snow, and ice create hazardous driving conditions by reducing visibility and road traction.

7. Poor road conditions like uneven surfaces, potholes, and lack of proper signage can cause accidents.

8. Infrastructure-related problems like insufficient traffic management, inadequate road design, and traffic congestion, specifically in urban areas.

9. Unpredictable pedestrians, overloading vehicles, and non-compliance with traffic laws also increase the likelihood of road casualties.

Hence, it is important to avail yourself of comprehensive car insurance coverage (including third-party cover and own damage cover) before driving your vehicle on Indian roads to secure yourself and your valued possessions.

Car accident insurance claim

Here is the car accident insurance claim process to follow in case of car accidents:

1. Notify the insurer: Intimate the insurer about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all necessary details – claim event details and your policy details.

2. File FIR at the nearest police station: Provide a detailed account of the accident to the police. Obtain a copy of the police report, as it will be important for your claim.

3. Document the scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, road conditions, vehicle damage, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. Identify witness and keep their contact information.

4. Gather and submit all the documents: Submit a claim form along with other relevant documents. This includes:

• Copy of car insurance document

• Copy of your driving license and registration certificate

• Police FIR (First Information Report)

• Car repair bill/receipts, vehicle repair estimate

• Medical records and bills, if any.

• Other documents, if any required by the insurer as per the nature of the claim.

5. Get your vehicle repaired: Take your vehicle to the network garage or your preferred garage and get it repaired. You can get cashless claims in the network garages. You can also submit the bill and get it reimbursed from the insurance company.

6. Assessment and investigation: An insurance adjuster may inspect the vehicle damage and review the submitted documents to assess the claim. Insurers may also conduct a detailed investigation.

7. Claim settlement: The insurance company settles the claim after completing the evaluation.

Conclusion

To conclude, understanding the common causes can help you stay focused and alert on the road to avoid accidents. Knowing the claim process, and being diligent in your documentation can help you navigate the claim process effectively in times of need.