Immediate Action Regarding Damage
You’ve bought your car, obtained your car insurance and comprehensive insurance. Now you’re ready to hit the road. You set off… humming your favorite song, feeling the spring sun warming your car. You opened your window, and with a warm breeze, you joined the flowing traffic. Then, suddenly, there was a jolt. A vehicle speeding to move to the left lane hit your car from behind, the car you’re driving for the first time! So, what should you do now?
Report the accident to your insurance company within five business days
One of the most important things often overlooked when an accident occurs is the requirement to report the accident to your insurance company at least five business days from the date of the damage. Failure to do so may result in you being unable to claim your rights. In addition, you must provide your insurance company with the cause of the damage and any necessary documents related to it. Sharing all information and documents that will enable the insurance company to assume responsibility will facilitate the process of resolving the damage.
Remember that you are insured, and you should take the necessary rescue and protection measures and follow the instructions given by your insurer as much as possible. When the right of recourse passes to the insurer, the insurance company to which your comprehensive insurance policy is linked will cover your damage, and will also claim part or all of the damages you have suffered from the other party’s traffic insurance company, within the scope of their liability ratio.
Another point to consider in case of damage is whether the insured has paid their premiums. If you have overdue, unpaid premiums, the insurance company may not cover the damage. Therefore, paying your premiums regularly will ensure that the necessary procedures for repairing your damage are carried out quickly in the event of unexpected damage.
What should you do in case of damage?
After damage occurs, the first thing you should do is call your insurance company’s damage hotline or assistance services. By contacting your authorized representative, you can request a tow truck or replacement vehicle to your location.
You should clearly and precisely explain the estimated amount of the damage and the event that caused the damage to the authorities.
Fill out the Accident Report Form
Regardless of whether the damage to your vehicle is minor or major, you must fill out an accident report form. Therefore, make sure you keep an accident report form with you. Along with the report, you may need to submit several photos documenting the accident and an official record showing how the accident occurred to your insurance company. Liability percentages are determined based on the review of these documents. Therefore, you should provide these documents to your insurer without delay.
The following information must be included in the accident report form:
1. Date, time, and location of the accident
2. Driver identification information
3. Vehicle registration information
4. Mandatory traffic insurance policy information
Click here to learn how to fill out the accident report form.
Alternatively, if your insurer assumes responsibility, you can take your vehicle to an authorized service center. The authorized service center will handle all procedures on your behalf, request an expert from your insurance company, and provide them with all the details. The service center will determine the extent of the damage to the vehicle and the amount the insurance company will pay. You will only cover the remaining amount.
