Guide to making a motor vehicle insurance claim

Filing a motor vehicle insurance claim in South Africa can feel overwhelming, especially after an accident or theft. Knowing the correct steps can speed up the process and ensure a successful claim. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Report the incident immediately

• Accidents: Contact the police within 24 hours if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant damage. Obtain a case number (required by insurers).
• Theft/Hijacking: Report to the police immediately and get a case number.
• Other Incidents (e.g., hail damage): Notify your insurer as soon as possible.

Step 2: Gather important information

• Your policy number and personal details.
• Details of the other driver (if applicable): name, contact, license plate, Filing a motor vehicle insurance claim in South Africa can feel overwhelming, especially after an accident or theft. Knowing the correct steps can speed up the process and ensure a successful claim. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Report the incident immediately

• Accidents: Contact the police within 24 hours if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant damage. Obtain a case number (required by insurers).
• Theft/Hijacking: Report to the police immediately and get a case number.
• Other Incidents (e.g., hail damage): Notify your insurer as soon as possible.

Step 2: Gather essential information

• Your policy number and personal details.
• Details of the other driver (if applicable): name, contact, license plate, insurance info.
• Photos/videos of the damage, accident scene, and any relevant road conditions.

Step 3: Contact your insurer

• Call your insurer’s claims department or use their app/online portal.
• Provide all necessary details (incident report, photos, case number).

Step 4: Assessment & repairs

• Your insurer may send an assessor or direct you to an approved repair shop.
• Do not repair the vehicle without approval, as this may void your claim.

Step 5: Claim approval & payout

• Once approved, repairs will be done at an approved garage, or you may receive a cash payout (depending on your policy).

Pro Tip:

Keep all documents (police reports, repair invoices, correspondence with insurers) for future reference.

Need help filing your claim? Use our AI assistant to guide you through the process!