Here’s what to do after car damage — step by step
Road accidents and vehicle damage are an unpleasant situation that many drivers face at least once. Whether it is a rear-end collision, a scratched bumper, a broken tail light, or a more serious accident, properly filing a car insurance claim is essential if you want to receive fair compensation from the insurance company.
In this article, we will explain step by step how to file a claim under Third-Party Liability or Casco insurance, what the deadline is for filing a Third-Party Liability claim, and how long the insurer has to pay compensation under Third-Party Liability insurance.
1. Ensure Safety and Gather Information
After the incident, first make sure that all participants are safe. If there are injured persons or serious material damages, immediately call emergency number 112.
Then collect the necessary information:
➜ Names and contact details of all participants
➜ Vehicle registration numbers
➜ Car insurance details
➜ Photos of the damage and the accident scene
➜ Witness information, if available
The better you document the situation, the easier it will be to support your claim before the insurance company.
2. Fill Out a European Accident Statement or Call the Police
For minor accidents without injuries, drivers usually complete a European Accident Statement. It is important that the description of the incident is accurate and clear.
In cases of disputes between drivers, missing documents, or more serious accidents, it is recommended to call the traffic police.
3. Notify the Insurance Company on Time
One of the most common mistakes is delaying notification to the insurer. Every insurance company has its own requirements and deadlines for submitting documents.
It is important to know the deadline for filing a Third-Party Liability claim. In most cases, the insurer should be notified as quickly as possible after the accident, and delays may complicate the claim process.
The following documents are usually required when filing the claim:
➔ European Accident Statement or police report
➔ Photos of the damages
➔ Vehicle registration certificate
➔ Personal ID card
➔ Bank account details for payment of compensation
4. Vehicle Inspection
After the documents are submitted, the insurer performs an inspection of the vehicle and records the damages. It is important not to start repairs before this inspection unless you have explicit permission.
In more serious collisions, there are often hidden damages that are not immediately visible. That is why it is advisable to have the vehicle carefully inspected at a repair shop.
5. How Long Does the Insurance Company Have to Pay Compensation?
Many drivers wonder how much time the insurer has to pay compensation.
The timeframe for paying a Third-Party Liability claim depends on the specific case and on whether all required documents have been submitted. If information is missing or the damages are disputed, the process may be delayed.
After reviewing the claim, the insurer either offers compensation or directs the vehicle to an authorized repair shop.
6. What to Do If the Compensation Is Too Low
Many vehicle owners face situations involving:
➔ undervalued damage assessments
➔ delayed payments
➔ refusal to cover certain damages
If you believe the offered compensation does not cover the actual repair costs, you have several options:
➔ request a second inspection
➔ submit a formal objection
➔ seek legal assistance
➔ or sell your insurance claim
In some cases, this allows you to receive your funds faster, without lengthy disputes with the insurance company.
The Most Common Mistakes When Filing an Insurance Claim
➔ Not taking enough photos
➔ Signing documents without reviewing them carefully
➔ Accepting the insurer’s first offer immediately
➔ Delaying notification to the insurer
➔ Repairing the vehicle before the official inspection
Properly filing a car insurance claim can save you time, money, and unnecessary complications. Good preparation and timely action increase your chances of receiving fair compensation from the insurance company.
If the insurer delays payment, refuses the claim, or offers an unfairly low amount, it is important to know that you have the right to seek assistance and protect your interests.
For more information, contact the team at Claimster at +359 88 596 7297.
