Car & Bike Insurance Claims: From Rejection to Full Settlement

By Hari Kotian, IRDAI-Certified Insurance Advisor · 2026

IDV is what the insurer pays on total loss - the vehicle's current market value, not its purchase price. IDV disputes are among the most common motor complaints that reach the Ombudsman.

The 15-day rule

IRDAI requires settlement within 15 days of the complete surveyor report. Delays beyond that without cause trigger interest liability for the insurer - keep the clock your ally.

Checklist

File FIR if needed; photograph everything immediately; collect witness details; submit within the intimation window; keep the surveyor report; track the 15-day settlement rule.

The documentation list

Police FIR where required, RC copy, a valid driving license, photos of the scene and damage from every angle, and a repair estimate from an authorized garage. Most delays trace back to one missing item.