Introduction: The Real Problem Most Drivers Face After an Accident
You finally buy car insurance thinking you’re financially protected in case something goes wrong.
But one day, you get into a minor accident on a busy road. Your car is damaged, and naturally, your first thought is:
“Good thing I have insurance.”
You contact your insurance company to file a claim — but instead of getting immediate support, they ask you to submit a list of required documents.
Suddenly, you’re confused.
- Do you need a police report?
- Is a copy of your driving license mandatory?
- What about the vehicle registration?
- Should you submit repair estimates?
Many car insurance claims in Pakistan are not rejected because of the accident itself — but because the policyholder fails to submit the correct documents.
Understanding what documents are required for a car insurance claim can help you avoid delays, prevent rejection, and ensure faster claim approval.
This guide explains everything you need to know about documentation, claim procedures, and how comprehensive car insurance works in Pakistan.
How Comprehensive Car Insurance Works
Comprehensive car insurance is the most complete type of motor insurance available in Pakistan. It not only covers third-party liability but also protects your own vehicle against damage or loss.
This policy typically provides coverage for:
- Road accidents
- Vehicle theft
- Fire damage
- Natural disasters (such as floods)
- Riots or vandalism
- Falling objects
- Total loss situations
In the event of an accident or theft, your insurance company compensates you for repair costs or pays the insured value of your vehicle — provided that you submit all required documents during the claim process.
Basic Documents Required for a Car Insurance Claim
Regardless of the type of claim, the following documents are usually required:
- Copy of CNIC (policyholder)
- Valid driving license of the driver
- Vehicle Registration Book or Smart Card
- Copy of insurance policy
- Duly filled and signed claim form
- Incident report or accident statement
- Photos of the damaged vehicle
- Repair estimate from an authorized workshop
Additional Documents (Depending on Claim Type)
Some situations may require extra documentation:
| Claim Situation | Additional Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Accident Claim | FIR or Police Daily Diary Entry |
| Vehicle Theft | Final Police Investigation Report |
| Third-Party Damage | CNIC & License of Third Party |
| Total Loss Case | Both Original Vehicle Keys |
| Flood Damage | Surveyor Inspection Report |
Submitting accurate and complete documents is critical to ensure your claim is processed without delays.
Who Should Buy It?
Comprehensive car insurance is recommended for:
- New car owners
- Bank-financed vehicles
- Daily commuters
- Ride-hailing drivers (Uber, Careem)
- Imported or luxury vehicles
- Drivers living in high-risk cities
If your vehicle is worth more than PKR 1,000,000, comprehensive insurance is generally advisable to protect against unexpected repair or replacement costs.
Benefits
Comprehensive car insurance offers several advantages:
- Protection against high repair costs
- Coverage for theft or total loss
- Natural disaster protection
- Third-party liability coverage
- Cashless repairs at network workshops
- Peace of mind for daily drivers
Repair costs for even minor accidents can exceed PKR 50,000, making insurance a practical financial safety net.
Limitations
Despite its wide coverage, comprehensive insurance does not cover everything.
Your claim may be rejected under the following conditions:
- Driver does not hold a valid license
- Policy has expired
- Delay in claim reporting
- False or incomplete documentation
- Mechanical or electrical breakdown
- Driving under the influence
Incomplete documentation is among the most common reasons for claim rejection in Pakistan.
Estimated Cost in Pakistan
The annual premium for comprehensive car insurance depends on the Insured Declared Value (IDV) of your vehicle.
| Car Value | Estimated Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| PKR 1,000,000 | PKR 25,000 – 35,000 |
| PKR 1,500,000 | PKR 35,000 – 50,000 |
| PKR 2,000,000 | PKR 50,000 – 70,000 |
| PKR 3,000,000 | PKR 70,000 – 100,000 |
Imported or high-end vehicles may have higher premium rates.
Factors That Affect Premium
Insurance premium is influenced by several factors:
- Vehicle market value
- Engine capacity
- Model year
- Driver’s age
- Driving history
- Claim history
- City of registration
- Installed security features
Premiums in metropolitan areas may be slightly higher due to increased accident or theft risk.
Real Example Scenario
Ahmed owns a 2021 Toyota Yaris in Karachi.
After a minor accident, he submitted a claim to his insurance provider but failed to attach:
- A copy of his driving license
- Workshop repair estimate
- A properly completed incident report
As a result, the claim was delayed for over three weeks.
After submitting the missing documents, including:
- Driving license copy
- Repair estimate
- Signed claim form
His claim was approved, and the insurance company covered PKR 85,000 in repair expenses.
This example highlights how documentation directly affects claim approval time.
Tips Before Buying
Before purchasing car insurance:
- Choose a reputable insurer
- Read policy terms carefully
- Confirm deductible amount
- Review approved workshop network
- Ask about claim settlement ratio
- Install a vehicle tracker if required
- Keep a digital copy of your policy
These steps can help you avoid claim issues in the future.
FAQs
Is a police report required for every claim?
Not for minor accidents, but it is usually required in theft or major damage cases.
Can someone else drive my insured vehicle?
Yes, provided the driver has a valid driving license.
How long does claim approval take?
Typically, 7–14 working days after submission of all required documents.
What happens in a total loss case?
The insurance company pays the insured declared value (IDV) after verification.
Conclusion
Buying car insurance is simple — but filing a successful claim requires proper documentation.
By submitting:
- CNIC
- Driving license
- Vehicle registration
- Claim form
- Photos
- Repair estimate
You can ensure a smooth and timely claim settlement process.
Insurance is not just about having a policy — it’s about being prepared when you need to use it.
Author Bio
Ali Hassan is a financial content researcher specializing in insurance and personal finance topics in Pakistan. With over five years of experience in consumer-focused blogging, he aims to simplify insurance concepts for everyday vehicle owners.
Sources / References
- Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP)
- State Bank of Pakistan Insurance Guidelines
- Jubilee General Insurance Motor Policy
- EFU General Insurance Motor Claim Procedure
- Adamjee Insurance Claim Documentation Guide
