Car accidents are stressful—whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a major collision. But the aftermath doesn’t have to be. Knowing how to claim your car insurance after an accident in Malaysia can ease your worries, speed up the process, and help you avoid costly mistakes.
This guide walks you through each step, from the moment the accident happens until your claim is settled. Whether you’re a new driver or simply unfamiliar with the insurance process, this article will help you take the right actions confidently and quickly.
✅ Step 1: Ensure Everyone Is Safe
Before thinking about insurance claims, always prioritise safety. Here’s what to do immediately after the accident:
- Move to a safe area, if possible.
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- Check if anyone is injured and call 999 if emergency help is needed.
- Do not leave the scene of the accident.
✅ Step 2: Take Photos and Gather Evidence
Solid documentation will help you support your insurance claim. Collect the following:
- Photos of the accident from multiple angles, showing all vehicle damages and the road condition.
- Close-up shots of vehicle number plates.
- Location details (GPS if possible).
- Time and date of the accident.
- Witness details, if any.
This evidence will be crucial during claim assessment.
✅ Step 3: Lodge a Police Report Within 24 Hours
In Malaysia, you must file a police report within 24 hours after the accident—even for minor damage.
Bring along:
- Your MyKad and driver’s licence
- Your car insurance policy or e-cover note
- Photos and evidence from the accident
- Vehicle registration card (if requested)
You will be issued a police report and an accident sketch plan, which are both required for the insurance claim.
🔗 Tip: Failing to report to the police within 24 hours may result in your claim being rejected or fined under Section 52(2) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
✅ Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer’s 24/7 accident hotline or customer service to inform them about the accident. Most insurers have a claims department ready to assist.
Provide the following:
- Your policy number
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Police report number
- Damage details
They will guide you on the next steps and assign a panel workshop or towing service, if needed.
✅ Step 5: Send Your Vehicle to a Panel Workshop
You must send your vehicle to an authorized panel workshop approved by your insurer. This is important because:
- Repairs done at panel workshops are usually cashless.
- Your insurer will not reimburse full costs if repairs are done at non-panel shops.
- The workshop will help you prepare your claim documents.
The workshop will inspect the damage, prepare an estimate, and submit it to the insurer for approval.
✅ Step 6: Submit All Required Documents
The insurer or the panel workshop will help you submit the following documents:
- Completed claim form
- Copy of police report
- Copy of police investigation results (if applicable)
- Copy of your driving licence and IC
- Copy of vehicle registration card
- Photographs and accident sketches
Once submitted, your insurer will assign a claims adjuster to review and approve the repair work.
✅ Step 7: Wait for Approval and Repairs
If everything checks out, your insurer will approve the repair costs. The panel workshop will then proceed to fix your vehicle.
Repair times vary based on:
- Severity of damage
- Availability of spare parts
- Backlog at the workshop
Ask your workshop for an estimated completion date and keep in touch regularly.
✅ Step 8: Collect Your Vehicle
Once repairs are completed:
- Inspect the vehicle before accepting it.
- Get a repair invoice or job sheet for your records.
If it’s a cashless claim, you won’t need to pay anything unless you have an excess clause or uncovered parts.
Key Terms to Understand
✅ Excess / Deductible
This is the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in. It can be compulsory or voluntary. Check your policy for details.
✅ No Claim Discount (NCD)
Making an own-damage claim will typically affect your NCD (a discount on your premium for claim-free years). But in no-fault accidents, you might qualify for NFOC (No-Fault Own Damage Claim), which lets you retain your NCD.
Important Reminders
- Always lodge a police report—even if the other party insists it’s not necessary.
- Never admit fault at the scene.
- Do not agree to a private settlement without consulting your insurer.
- If the other driver is at fault, you may consider claiming third party insurance instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim insurance if it’s my fault?
Yes, if you have Comprehensive Insurance, you can file an Own Damage Claim even if the accident was your fault. But your NCD will likely be affected.
How long does the claim process take?
It typically takes 5–10 working days after document submission, depending on claim complexity and workshop load.
What if I hit a parked car?
You must still report the accident to the police and your insurer. You may be liable, so your insurer may handle the third-party claim on your behalf.
Final Thoughts
Accidents are never pleasant—but the car insurance claim process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following the right steps, reporting on time, and understanding your coverage, you’ll be in a better position to protect your rights and recover costs.
If you’re unsure or need help, Autore.my is here to guide you every step of the way.
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