Scratches on the car can be quite frustrating, especially if it's brand new or freshly polished. The first thing that a car owner may think of is, “Can I claim insurance for car scratches?” The answer, fortunately, is yes.
Under a comprehensive car insurance policy, scratches are usually covered, but only if the repair cost is expensive. Let's understand when you should file a car insurance claim for scratches and how it can affect your policy.
Which Policy Covers Car Scratches?
Understanding a car insurance policy's coverage is important before filing a claim. Under a third-party liability insurance, only third-party damages are covered and not those to the insured vehicles. With a standalone own damage or comprehensive car insurance policy, you may raise a car scratch claim. At Generali Central, we offer you comprehensive yet affordable car insurance.
When Should You Raise Claims for Car Scratches?
The reason to buy car insurance is to get financial assistance during car repairs. So, it is essential to understand when a car scratch claim can actually benefit you.
1. Repair Cost Vs Deductibles
Deductibles are an important element in a car insurance policy. It is the amount the policyholder paid under the claim. Only after the policyholder's deductibles are met does the insurer pay the remaining claim amount.
Raising a car insurance claim is generally beneficial if the repair cost is significantly higher than the claim amount. If it's slightly higher or lower than the deductibles, the policyholder may actually get nominal to no benefits.
For instance, if the scratch repair cost of a car is ₹2,500 and the insurance deductible is ₹1,500, filing a claim may not be worth it. Only when the difference is significant can the policyholder actually benefit.
2. No Claim Bonus Vs Claim Amount
No Claim Bonus, or the NCB, is rewarded to the policyholder when they make no claims in a policy year. It reflects that the car owner has well-maintained the vehicle. NCB can be used to get discounts on premiums during policy renewal. The discount benefit goes up to 50%.
Raising a claim means NCB becomes nil. So, you need to analyse whether raising a claim is worth losing the NCB. If the claim amount does not surpass the NCB discount on premium, it may not be worth it.
Tip: To keep NCB intact even after a few claims, you may purchase NCB Protect add-on cover.
3. Multiple Damages
Sometimes, scratches may also be accompanied by other damage in the car. For instance, there may be serious dents, body damage, and more. In such a case, raising a claim can be beneficial as it will cover all the admissible damages. The claim amount will also likely be higher, making the claim worth it.
Read this blog to understand the car dent insurance claim process.
Over To You
Scratches on the car are disheartening, but minor scratches are not heavy on the pockets. You may purchase scratch repair kits or pay out of pocket for minor expenses. However, if the vehicle suffers serious or multiple damage, filing a car insurance claim may be a better option.
