When You Can Claim Insurance for Car Scratches?

Car ownership is a significant investment, and car owning is really a luxury in India. One takes pride in keeping their vehicles in awesome condition. However, accidents can happen, and scratches on your car’s surface are a common occurrence. While minor scratches may not affect your car’s performance, they can be unsightly and affect the resale value. The question that often arises is, can you claim insurance for car scratches in India? In this article, we will explore the circumstances under which you can claim insurance for car scratches in India.

Types of Insurance Coverage

In India, there are primarily two types of car insurance coverage:

Third-Party Liability Insurance: This is mandatory by law and covers damages caused to third parties in the event of an accident. It does not cover damages to your own vehicle, including scratches.

Comprehensive Insurance: This type of insurance covers not only third-party liability but also damage to your own vehicle. Comprehensive insurance policies often include coverage for various perils, including accidents, theft, natural disasters, and even scratches.

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When Can You Claim Insurance for Car Scratches?

The claiming insurance for car scratches largely depends on your insurance policy and the circumstances under which the scratches occurred.

Here are some scenarios where you may be able to make a claim:

Accidents:

If your car has sustained scratches due to a collision with another vehicle or object, your comprehensive insurance policy may cover the cost of repairing the damage. However, you will be subject to the deductible or excess specified in your policy.

Vandalism or Theft:

If your car is intentionally scratched or damaged by vandals or is stolen and recovered with scratches, comprehensive insurance may cover the cost of repairs.

Natural Disasters:

In cases where your car is scratched due to natural disasters like hail or falling tree branches, comprehensive insurance may cover the damage.

Hit-and-Run:

If your car is scratched by an unidentified vehicle, you can file a claim under the ‘own damage’ section of your comprehensive policy, provided you have a police report and the incident is reported within the stipulated time frame.

Roadside Assistance:

Some insurance policies may offer roadside assistance and coverage for minor damages like scratches. Check your policy to see if this is included.

When Can’t You Claim Insurance for Car Scratches?

There are instances when you cannot claim insurance for car scratches:

Normal Wear and Tear:

Regular wear and tear, including minor scratches accumulated over time, is not covered by insurance. Insurance is designed for sudden and accidental damages.

Using No-Claim Bonus:

If you choose not to make a claim for minor scratches and use your no-claim bonus to accumulate discounts on your premium, you cannot claim insurance for these scratches in the future.

Not Having Comprehensive Insurance:

If you have only third-party liability insurance, you will not be able to claim for damages to your own vehicle, including scratches.

Conclusion

Car scratches are an inevitable part of car ownership. While not all car scratches can be claimed under insurance, it is crucial to understand your insurance policy’s terms and conditions. If you have comprehensive insurance, you may be able to claim for certain types of scratches. However, for minor scratches that do not significantly affect your car’s performance or appearance, it may be more cost-effective to repair them out of pocket. Always consult your insurance provider for guidance and clarification on your policy’s coverage and claim procedures.