Insurance Claims for Your Electric Vehicle: What You Need to Know

As the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow in India, so does the need for insurance coverage for these vehicles. Like with any other type of vehicle, accidents and damages can happen with EVs too, and having the right insurance coverage can provide financial protection and peace of mind for EV owners. When it comes to filing insurance claims for EVs in India, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Let's take a closer look at some of the key factors to consider about claims related to your electric vehicle insurance.

Insurance Coverage Options for EVs in India

In India, EVs are eligible for the same types of insurance coverage as traditional fuel-powered vehicles. This includes mandatory third-party liability coverage, as well as comprehensive coverage, which provides additional protection against damages to the vehicle itself. Additionally, some insurers in India offer specialized insurance products specifically for EVs. For example, some policies may include coverage for the battery pack or provide additional benefits for electric vehicles. So, if you have an electric bike, your electric bike insurance safeguards your battery from mishaps specific to it. It's important to research your options and choose a policy that meets your specific needs. as an EV owner.

Filing an Insurance Claim for an EV in India

In the event of an accident or damage to your EV, filing an insurance claim is a straightforward process.

Inform your insurer

The first step is to notify your insurer as soon as possible. You'll need to provide details about the incident, including the location, time, and extent of the damage.

File an FIR

In some cases, your insurer may require you to file an FIR for legal purposes. If the damage caused is minor, the need to file an FIR may not arise. Make sure you discuss this with your insurer at length.

Document the damage

It is vital for you to take photos and videos of the damage caused to your vehicle. This assists your insurer in assessing the damages and makes your claim more genuine.

Submit the documents

After you have filed the FIR and documented the damage, submit it along with your claim form to the insurer. You might also need to provide additional documents such as a copy of the policy and your car’s registration certificate among other things.

Get your vehicle surveyed

Your insurer may send a representative to assess the damage and determine the cost of repairs. The surveyor will check if the damages match the ones described in your claim. They may also ask for additional information related to the accident.

Get the vehicle repaired

Depending on the severity of the damage, the repairs may be completed at a network garage or a third-party garage of your choosing. If a network garage is chosen, the insurer would carry out the payment directly with the garage through the cashless claims feature. If a third-party garage is chosen, you would be reimbursed by the insurer for the cost of repairs. * It's important to note that some insurers in India may have specific procedures in place for processing claims related to EVs. For example, your electric car insurance provider may require documentation related to the battery pack or the charging infrastructure. Be sure to check with your insurer for any specific requirements or procedures that may apply. *

Factors that Affect Insurance Claims for EVs in India

Like with any other type of vehicle, there are several factors that can affect electric vehicle insurance claims for EVs in India. Some of these include:

1. The age and condition of the vehicle: Older or more heavily used vehicles may be more prone to damage and may be more expensive to repair, which can impact insurance claims.
2. The location of the incident: Factors such as road conditions, traffic density, and weather can all impact the severity of an incident and the resulting damage to the vehicle.
3. The extent of the damage: Certain damages may be covered by a comprehensive policy, while others may require additional coverage via add-ons.
4. The type of insurance policy: Different policies may have different coverage limits and deductibles, which can impact the amount of compensation you receive in the event of a claim.

Conclusion

As EV adoption continues to grow in India, insurance coverage for these vehicles is becoming increasingly important. By choosing the right policy and understanding the claims process, EV owners can have peace of mind knowing that they are financially protected in the event of an accident or damage to their vehicle. If you own an electric vehicle, such as a commercial electric vehicle, insure your vehicle with the help of electric commercial vehicle insurance from on-road accidents and damages. *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.