Making an insurance claim
Being in a situation when you need to call upon your motorbike insurance policy is seldom pleasant. If you compare motorbike insurance you can find a policy which might not make the experience of claiming less painful, but it will make the process of returning to normal much easier.
In the event of an accident, what you will and won’t be able to claim for is dependent on the level of cover that you’ve got.
There are typically three types of cover, as follows:
- Third party. This is the cheapest level of insurance. This type of cover will mean that you are insured for injury to others and damage to their property, but not for your own vehicle. It is the minimum mandatory requirement for UK motorcyclists.
- Third party, fire and theft. This type of policy will provide the same features as third party cover, as well as provide cover to your own bike in the event of damage by fire or theft.
- Comprehensive. This policy is the most expensive, but could offer the greatest peace of mind. It will cover you and your bike, plus offers third party care.
With any policy, always make sure you’re aware of your insurer’s exclusions – circumstances in which you are unable to claim – so you don’t have any unpleasant shocks. It’s safe to say that if you’ve been riding whilst drunk or on drugs then your insurer will not be liable for any payout.
Making a claim
The key to making an insurance claim is keeping a cool head: it’s easier said than done in the heat of the moment, but remaining calm is essential. If other road users have been involved, exchange registration details and numbers. Parties are legally obliged to disclose their details in this situation, so make sure you give yours. If they refuse to cooperate and drive off, then make sure you call emergency services as soon as possible. If there are any witnesses to the event, make sure that you’ve also exchanged details with them and make a note of the exact date, time and location. If, like most people, you’ve got a camera on your mobile phone, take some pictures which will give you vital evidence should the other party be responsible and lay the blame at your door.
If there has been any injury to you, you may be able to claim medical expenses from the other party. If you are unable to ride your bike and you are en route to somewhere important if could also be possible to claim the expense of a taxi, so make sure you keep receipts of every expense that you incur as a result of your accident, so you have evidence.
It’s vital at this stage not to apologise to the other parties. Doing so will mean that you accept liability for the accident, even if it’s not your fault. A courteous ‘are you alright?’ will suffice. Always refer the other parties to your insurer.
If there has been an element of crime – theft, vandalism or otherwise – call the police immediately and obtain a crime reference number. Also make sure you take the names and numbers of any police officers who visit you.
Regardless of the events which cause you to make a claim, it’s essential that you take record of all the information regarding it whilst fresh in your memory, even if the details seem insignificant at the time. In the event of a claim, insurers ask for as much detail as is possible, and that you are transparent and honest. It is also imperative to call your insurer as quickly as possible.