Does Car Insurance Cover Firecracker Damage During Diwali? Here’s What You Need to Know

Diwali brings joy, but it also raises concerns about accidents and damages—especially to cars. If your vehicle gets damaged by firecrackers, you might wonder whether insurance covers such damage. Here’s what you need to know about car insurance policies, claim procedures, and reasons your claim could be denied.

Types of Car Insurance Policies

In India, three types of car insurance policies are available:

1. Third-Party Insurance: Covers damage to other vehicles or property but not your own car.
2. Standalone Insurance: Covers self-damage caused by accidents or mishaps like fire.
3. Comprehensive Insurance: Offers broad coverage for third-party damages, fire, explosions, and other accidental losses.

Firecracker damage is covered under standalone and comprehensive policies, but third-party insurance won’t provide any compensation.

How to File an Insurance Claim for Firecracker Damage

If your car gets damaged due to firecrackers, follow these steps to successfully claim insurance:

1. Notify the Insurance Company:
   As soon as you notice the damage, contact your insurance provider and inform them. Early reporting ensures a smoother claim process.
2. File an FIR:
   Registering an FIR with the local police is crucial. Insurance companies usually ask for an FIR as proof of the incident’s time, date, and cause. This document helps validate your claim.
3. Inspection by Insurance Agent:
   The insurer will send an agent to inspect the car. They will assess the damage and prepare the required documentation. Ensure all details are recorded accurately to avoid future complications.
4. Submit Necessary Documents:
   Provide the insurer with your FIR copy, car policy documents, and inspection report. Once everything is verified, the claim process will move forward.

Common Reasons Insurance Claims Get Rejected

1. Battery or Electrical Faults:
   If the fire starts due to wiring issues or a battery spark, your claim will likely be denied. Such incidents are considered internal faults not covered by insurance.
2. Faulty AC or LPG Kit Installation:
   Damages caused during modifications or faulty installations—like AC or gas kit fittings—aren’t covered under most policies.
3. Overheating or Oil Leakage:
   If the damage results from overheating or engine oil leakage, the insurance company may reject your claim, as these issues are deemed maintenance-related.

Quick Tips to Ensure a Smooth Claim Process

• Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damaged car to strengthen your case.
• Read Your Policy Carefully: Understand what your comprehensive or standalone insurance covers.
• Stick to Timelines: Delay in reporting damage could complicate the process. File the claim as soon as possible.

With these steps in mind, you’ll be better prepared to handle firecracker-related car damage during Diwali. Having a comprehensive policy ensures peace of mind, but make sure you know the terms and conditions to avoid unpleasant surprises.