Natural Disasters and Weather-Related Claims under Motor Insurance Policy

Introduction

In the United Arab Emirates(UAE), natural disasters and weather hazards are likely to occur and leave you devastated. As per reports, the UAE is at the top of the list of countries that face severe sandstorms, tropical storms, landslides and floods. In such a scenario, safeguarding your vehicles in advance with motor insurance against such calamities gives you relief to a great extent. It allows car owners to relax and prepare themselves to cope with the damages and other hazards caused by weather issues and natural disasters.

Obtaining the right motor insurance policy from trusted insurance companies in the UAE is an ideal way to protect vehicles from weather-related perils. However, car owners often face hassles while claiming insurance coverage for their vehicles after a natural calamity passes.

In this blog, let’s shed some light on the crucial details of natural disaster and weather-related claims in motor insurance.

Common Weather Hazards that may Affect Your Car and Protections Against them

Flash flood

Unexpected flash floods may take place anytime, especially during the rainy season. Such heavy water flow may cause severe damages to the car engines. Also, prolonged exposure to the deep water may grow mildew and mould on the interior parts. Floodwater also accumulates debris including broken glass pieces, twigs, nails, etc. which can puncture and weaken the car tires.

Sandstorm

From light, medium to severe, sandstorms of different intensities take place in UAE frequently. The coarse sand particles and salt damages the exterior of the car including its front view glass and looking-glass mirrors. Besides leaving scratches on the vehicle body, the dust and sand particles may clog the car’s air filters which affects the overall performance of the vehicle

Earthquake

Located near a seismic zone, UAE is prone to earthquakes. When an earthquake occurs, it leaves a huge impact on human resources, properties and vehicles. Debris and large objects may fall on the cars leading to cracks, broken parts and other damages.

Hailstorm

Though hailstorms are not frequent visitors in UAE like sandstorms, occasional visits are enough to leave a strong impact on your vehicle. Strong wind may throw large tree branches and other items on cars. Especially the outer body of the vehicles including the glasses are likely to be cracked or broken.

Heavy rainfall

According to a latest report, on April 16, in 2024, UAE received the heaviest rainfall on record since 1949. Many car owners were compelled to leave their vehicles on the road amidst stagnant water as rainwater was seeping at the garages and home ceilings. Such rainfall may clog your vehicles’ electrical systems, disturbing its performance.

How to File a Natural Disaster and Weather Damage Motor Insurance Claim 

Gather your policy documents:

When your car is damaged due to weather hazards, instead of panicking about the damages, gather all your policy documents including the insurer’s contact details. Also, keep your affected vehicle’s registration number and original driving licence near your reach.

Contact the insurance service provider:

Give a call to your insurance service provider and inform them about the damages and your losses. They then guide you throughout the claiming process. Trusted insurance service providers like CoverB, in such cases, provide quick and prompt instructions to navigate the car owners throughout the process.

Get proof of the damages:

Click photographs of the damages on the vehicles and note down the details. They help to support the vehicle insurance claim. Also, it is essential to get a police report describing the damages and keep a copy of that report. 

Check repair cost estimate:

Visit an authorised motor repair shop and get an estimate of the repair and replacement cost. It is recommended that the damages should be checked by experts and you get an accurate estimate.

Go to the insurance service provider for the claim process

The final step includes initiating the claiming process. Car owners have to submit the policy details, necessary personal information, evidence of the damages, police reports and all other documents along with the estimated damage repair cost. After going through the required paperworks and the beneficiary’s requirements, insurance companies initiate the claim process. 

Final Words

So, car owners should get a clear understanding of car insurance policy and its coverage for natural disasters and weather hazards to get a hassle-free claim. Also, it offsets the risks of claim rejection. Car owners may opt for comprehensive motor insurance packages that cover weather-related damages, or they can include certain add-ons for this purpose.

Finally, find and rely upon a leading insurance service provider who can help get the right coverage for natural disaster and weather-related damages on your vehicle and guide you throughout the claim process. 

Connect with experts at CoverB today for tailored insurance service for all your needs!