[Insurance Tips] If you encounter a traffic accident, how should you claim compensation from the insurance company?

After a traffic accident, it is very important to file a claim with the insurance company correctly and promptly, otherwise it may affect the claim settlement process or even lose the eligibility for compensation. The following are the standard procedures and precautions for claiming general motor insurance (including third party liability and full coverage) in Hong Kong:

1. Handle on-site matters immediately

  • Ensure safety : first turn off the engine, turn on the hazard warning lights, and make sure everyone is safe.
  • Call the police : If someone is injured, a third party is involved, government/public property is damaged, or there is a dispute over liability, you must call the police immediately and wait for the police to arrive and record the incident.
  • Gathering evidence :
    • Photos of the shooting scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, license plate, driving certificate, etc.
    • Record the information of the other driver, passengers, and witnesses (name, phone number, license plate, insurance company)
    • Keep dashcam footage (if available)
  • Never admit liability : Avoid arguing with the other party or admitting fault at the scene, and let the insurance company and the police investigate.

2. Notify the insurance company as soon as possible

  • According to the terms of the insurance policy (generally requiring notification within 24 hours or 48 hours at the latest) , even if you have not decided whether to file a claim, you must notify the insurance company by phone or via the App to report the incident.
  • Provide basic information :
    • Date, time and location of the accident
    • Accident Description
    • Damage
    • Involving third party information
  • Receive a report number/claim number for easy follow-up.

3.Formally submit claim documents to the insurance company

Commonly required documents:

  • Completed and signed claim form (can be downloaded from the insurance company's website)
  • Police report (police report/report form), if any
  • Copies of the ID card and driver's license of the vehicle owner and driver
  • Copy of driving license
  • Repair quotation or invoice
  • Photos of the scene/dashcam footage (if any)
  • Third party information/report number (if involved)
  • Other supplementary information required by the insurance company

4. Vehicle maintenance arrangements

  • Repairs can only be made after approval from the insurance company (in some cases, a designated cooperative repair shop can handle it directly, or the insurance company may need to send someone to inspect the vehicle/assess the damage first)
  • Keep all maintenance receipts for reimbursement and verification.

5. Claims review and compensation payment

  • The insurance company will review the details of the accident, liability, and document completeness.
  • The compensation will be paid directly to the repair shop or deposited into the car owner's account (depending on the company and the case).

6. Special Notes

  • If the report is overdue or the information is incomplete, the insurance company has the right to refuse compensation.
  • If a third party is injured, medical receipts and police files must be kept.
  • If you activate the "No Claim Discount Protection" (NCD Protector), you need to find out the details of the terms.
  • If you only repair minor damage to the car body (such as scratches and dents), you should clearly understand the excess or deductible.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: If I hit an unmanned vehicle or public property, do I need to call the police?
    A: You must call the police, otherwise the insurance company will most likely not pay compensation.

  • Q: What should I do if the other party runs away?
    A: Call the police immediately, preserve evidence at the scene, and report to the insurance company as usual.

  • Q: Do I need to find a lawyer?
    A: If legal liability or personal injury is involved, it is recommended to consult a lawyer.

Process summary diagram (lazy package)

  1. Immediately report to the police + collect evidence
  2. Notify the insurance company
  3. Submit all documents and wait for approval
  4. Arrange repair/claim after approval

remember:

  • Call the police immediately, notify the insurance company as soon as possible, and make sure all documents are complete.
  • Do not admit responsibility or sign any agreements on your own.
  • If you have any questions, call the insurance company directly.

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