Car Insurance Claims: Steps and Documents Required After an Accident

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An unexpected car accident can cause panic and confusion. However, understanding the correct insurance claim procedures is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring that the repair process proceeds smoothly.

In Thailand, insurance claims are categorized into two main types: Fresh Claims (accidents with a third party requiring immediate attention) and Dry Claims (minor damage without a third party present). This guide outlines the standard procedures and necessary documentation for filing a claim effectively in 2026.

1. Immediate Actions at the Scene (Fresh Claim)

If an accident involves another vehicle, injury, or significant property damage, it is classified as a "Fresh Claim" (Klaim Sod). The following steps must be taken immediately:

1. Stop the Vehicle Immediately: Do not move the vehicle unless instructed by the police or if it causes severe traffic obstruction. If moving is necessary, ensure photographs are taken from all angles first.
2. Call the Insurance Hotline: Contact your insurance company’s 24-hour emergency center. Have the following information ready:
   • Vehicle License Plate Number.
   • Insurance Policy Number.
   • Exact location of the accident.
   • Brief description of the incident.
3. Document the Scene: Take clear photos of the damage to both vehicles, the position of the cars relative to the road lanes, and the license plate of the other party.
4. Wait for the Surveyor: An insurance surveyor will be dispatched to the scene to assess liability and issue a Claim Form (Bai Kleam).

2. Reporting Minor Damage (Dry Claim)

If the accident is minor, such as scratching a wall, hitting a pole, or finding a dent with no known perpetrator, it is classified as a "Dry Claim" (Klaim Haeng).

• Procedure: You do not need to call a surveyor to the scene. You can drive to the insurance company’s branch or a contracted garage to file the claim.
• Note: If you cannot identify the other party (e.g., a scratch from an unknown source), you may be liable to pay an "Excess" fee (usually 1,000 THB per incident), depending on your policy terms.

3. Essential Documents Checklist

To process a claim, the insurance company will require the following documents. It is advisable to keep copies of these in your glove compartment.

1. Driver’s License: The license of the person driving at the time of the accident. (Note: If the driver does not have a valid license, voluntary insurance may refuse coverage, leaving only the compulsory CPTL coverage).
2. Copy of Vehicle Registration (Blue Book): To prove ownership and vehicle details.
3. Insurance Policy Schedule: A copy of the current valid policy.
4. National ID Card: Of the driver.
5. Copy of Police Report: (Only required in severe cases, cases with injuries, or when the parties cannot agree on liability).

4. The "Knock for Knock" Agreement

Most major insurance companies in Thailand participate in the "Knock for Knock" (KFK) agreement.

• What it is: If both vehicles have Class 1 insurance and participate in KFK, the drivers can agree on who is at fault, fill out a simplified form (Exchange Form), separate the vehicles to clear traffic, and file the claim later without waiting for a surveyor.
• Requirement: Both drivers must agree on liability and sign the document.

Conclusion

Preparation is key to managing the stress of an accident. Always keep your insurance hotline number and policy documents accessible. Following these steps ensures that the insurance company cannot deny liability and speeds up the repair authorization process.

Need to check your car's value or upgrade your insurance? Accidents often impact a car's future resale value. If you are considering selling your car after a repair, Motorist Thailand provides accurate market valuations to help you decide whether to keep or sell the vehicle.

Reference Sources

1. Regulatory Guidelines: Office of Insurance Commission (OIC)
2. Standard Procedures: Thai General Insurance Association (TGIA)

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