How to File a Commercial Vehicle Insurance Claim?
Filing a commercial vehicle insurance claim can feel stressful, especially when you’re already dealing with an accident, damage, or loss. But once you understand the steps, documents, and coverage rules, the whole process becomes much simpler, and you won’t miss out on the benefits you’re entitled to.
Since commercial vehicles face higher risks on the road, knowing exactly when and how to file a claim helps you avoid delays, rejection, and unnecessary expenses.
Read below to learn the complete process in a clear, simple way.
What is Commercial Vehicle Insurance
Commercial vehicle insurance, or truck insurance, is a type of motor insurance specifically made for vehicles used for business. It protects you from financial losses if your vehicle meets with an accident, gets stolen, catches fire, or is damaged due to natural or man-made disasters.
In India, third-party commercial vehicle insurance is mandatory for any business, whether a truck, taxi, school bus, rickshaw, tractor, or delivery van. Without it, the vehicle isn’t legally allowed on the road.
Steps to File A Claim for Commercial Vehicle Insurance
The commercial vehicle insurance claim process isn't difficult, but you need to follow the right steps so that your claim does not get delayed or rejected. Here's what you should do:
● Ensure safety first. If there is some sort of bodily injury, get immediate medical attention.
● Note down important details like the other vehicle’s number.
● Get witness information if anyone saw the accident. Names and contact details will help later.
● Contact the insurer immediately via the 24/7 helpline or file the claim online.
● Keep on hand a preliminary claim form that you can use to quickly respond to their questions.
● File an FIR within 48 hours if there is any theft, property damage, or bodily injury. There may be a need for an FIR in certain cases, so do not delay it.
● Streamline the process by following the instructions from the insurer.
Quick action helps avoid complications, hence making the whole claim process faster and easier.
Documents Required to File a Claim for Commercial Vehicle Insurance
A few essential documents are needed to complete your claim. Keep them ready so the process doesn’t slow down:
● Claim Form
● Registration Certificate (RC)
● Driving Licence
● Fitness Certificate
● State Permit
● National Permit
● Authorisation Certificate
● Load Challan / Goods Receipt / Invoice (if goods were being carried)
● FIR or Police Report (for theft or third-party bodily injury)
● Final Repair Invoice
Note: This is an indicative list. The insurer may request additional documents depending on the situation.
What is Covered under Commercial Vehicle Insurance?
Before filing a claim, it’s important to know exactly what your commercial vehicle policy covers and what it doesn’t. This helps to avoid claim rejections and ensures that one is prepared for unexpected expenses.
What’s Covered:
● Accidental damage
● Theft
● Fire-related damage
● Natural calamities (floods, landslides, etc.)
● Third-party losses or injuries
If a comprehensive commercial vehicle insurance plan is chosen, extra protection can also be added. These add-ons come at an additional premium but can lead to a good amount of savings.
Popular Add-ons are:
● Zero depreciation cover
● Engine and gearbox protection
● Consumables cover
● Roadside/breakdown assistance
● Return to invoice
● EMI protection
● Key and lock replacement
However, not everything is covered. Some situations fall outside the scope of the policy, and the insurer won’t accept those claims.
What’s Not Covered:
● Own vehicle damages under a third-party-only policy
● Driving drunk or without a valid licence
● War or nuclear-related damage
● Indirect loss, such as loss of income
● Damage due to negligence (like driving through a flood)
● Claims outside contract terms
● Mechanical or electrical breakdown
Therefore, understanding what’s included and what’s not helps in choosing smarter and avoiding unpleasant surprises later.
When Should You File a Commercial Vehicle Insurance Claim?
You should file a commercial vehicle insurance claim whenever there is an emergency or a situation where you can't handle the loss on your own. Knowing when to raise a claim helps you act quickly and ensures that you don't miss out on rightful coverage.
1. In Cases of an Accident Causing Injury
In case of an accident involving your vehicle that results in physical injury to yourself, your driver, or others, you should immediately inform your insurance company. Don't delay this at all.
First, check the damage and ensure that everyone's safety is guaranteed. Since loss due to accidents and collisions is covered under most motor insurance policies, you can go ahead with the claim process once you have assessed the situation.
This is a necessary step because delay could result in complications or even rejection of the claim.
2. When your Commercial Vehicle is Damaged
If your vehicle causes damage to another third party and you are proven not at fault, the insurer will handle legal and financial liabilities under your third-party cover, meaning you won't have to pay out of pocket.
In case your commercial vehicle is damaged, you should claim under the comprehensive policy. It compensates for losses due to accidents, man-made incidents, and natural calamities such as floods or storms. It also provides protection with third-party liability, and hence, you are covered from multiple sides. Filing a claim at the right time helps in faster recovery and less stress.
Commercial vehicle insurance protects business vehicles from accidents, theft, disasters, and third-party losses. Filing a claim requires timely action, the right documents, and knowing what your policy covers and excludes.
Understanding these steps ensures faster claim approval and prevents unexpected financial burdens.
