Step 1: Ensure safety and gather evidence immediately
Safety comes first after an accident. Avoid blocking traffic by moving automobiles to the roadside. Contact emergency services if passengers or others are injured. Once safe, gather essential evidence at the spot. Photograph car damage, license plates, accident site, skid marks, road conditions, and injuries. Collect complete names, IC numbers or passport data, contact numbers, automobile registration numbers, and insurance card details from all parties. These proofs will support your assertion.
Step 2: Report to Police Within 24 Hours
The Road Transport Act 1987 requires police reports within 24 hours of accidents in Malaysia. Give exact accident details at the local police station. The insurance company and legal authorities need this report as proof. If you are injured and cannot report the incident, a close relative or representative can contact the authorities.
Step 3: Notify Insurance Company ASAP
Contact your insurer immediately, preferably after filing a police complaint. Malaysian insurers usually demand 48-hour accident notice. Emergency help, towing, and panel workshop instruction are available 24/7 from several insurance carriers. Early notice lets your insurer recommend approved repair locations or panel workshops for fast claims processing. Not notifying within the deadline may cause issues or claim rejection.
Step 4: Take Your Car to an Approved Panel Workshop
After receiving approval from your insurer, tow or drive your car to an approved panel workshop. Panel workshops know the claims procedure and can help you complete out paperwork, submit documentation, and schedule car inspections. A completed claim form, police report, accident scene photos, driver’s identity card and driving licence, vehicle registration card, and motor insurance certificate or cover note are usually required. Provide thorough and accurate paperwork to avoid claim delays.
Step 5: Know Your Claim Type
Different accident types have different claims:
Own Damage Claim: If you caused the collision and want your insurance company to fix your car (only comprehensive coverage).
No-Fault Own Damage (NFOC): If another motorist is at fault, you can claim under your comprehensive coverage without losing your NCD. Your insurance will get payment from the at-fault party.
Third-Party Property Damage (TPPD): Used to sue another driver’s insurance for car damage if it’s their fault.
Knowing which category relates to your issue helps you manage costs, deadlines, and NCD preservation.
Step 6: Wait for approval and assessment
The workshop will submit a repair estimate to the insurer once the insurance adjuster inspects your car. A loss adjuster may be hired by the firm to assess damage and propose repairs or compensation. Repairs begin after approval. Contact the workshop to track progress and plan for spare part delays. Before accepting your automobile, check it completely after repairs.
Conclusion
If you know the processes, filing a Malaysian vehicle insurance claim after an accident isn’t scary. Acting quickly, gathering evidence, filing a police report on time, alerting your insurance, and providing accurate documentation will speed up the claims process. Follow this organized method to eliminate inconvenience, preserve your rights, and get back on the road with peace of mind.
