Common Claims in General Insurance — And How to File Them (2025 Guide)
General insurance is designed to protect you from financial losses caused by accidents, medical emergencies, theft, natural disasters, and more. However, many people struggle when it’s time to file a claim. Understanding which claims are most common and how to file them correctly helps ensure quick and hassle-free settlements.
This guide explains the most common types of claims in general insurance and provides a step-by-step process for filing each one.
1. Motor Insurance Claims
Motor insurance claims are among the most frequently filed, especially for cars and bikes.
Common Types of Motor Insurance Claims
- Accidental damage
- Third-party liability claims
- Theft of vehicle
- Natural disaster damage (flood, storm, fire)
- Windshield/Glass damage
How to File a Motor Insurance Claim
- Inform your insurer immediately.
- Do not repair the vehicle before inspection.
- File an FIR (for theft or major accidents).
- Submit photos of the damage.
- Complete the claim form.
- Cooperate with the surveyor’s inspection.
- Get repairs done at a network garage (cashless).
- Receive settlement or reimbursement.
2. Health Insurance Claims
Health insurance claims are filed when the insured person faces hospitalization or medical treatment.
Two Types of Claims
- Cashless Claim
- Reimbursement Claim
How to File a Health Insurance Claim
Cashless
- Visit a network hospital.
- Show your health insurance card.
- Get pre-authorisation approval.
- Receive treatment without upfront payment.
Reimbursement
- Pay hospital bills yourself.
- Collect all original bills & documents.
- Submit the reimbursement claim form.
- Insurer verifies & releases payment to your account.
3. Travel Insurance Claims
People file travel insurance claims for issues that arise during domestic or international trips.
Common Travel Insurance Claims
- Flight cancellation or delay
- Lost baggage
- Lost passport
- Overseas medical emergency
- Trip interruption
- Theft during travel
How to File a Travel Insurance Claim
- Notify the insurer within 24 hours of the incident.
- Provide boarding passes, passport details, and travel itinerary.
- File a police report (for theft or loss).
- Submit bills for medical or travel expenses.
- Await verification and settlement.
4. Home Insurance Claims
Home insurance claims arise after damage to the home or household items.
Common Home Insurance Claims
- Fire damage
- Theft or burglary
- Flood or storm damage
- Electrical short-circuit
- Damage to personal belongings
How to File a Home Insurance Claim
- Inform the insurer immediately.
- Prevent further damage (e.g., shut off electricity after a short-circuit).
- Take photos and videos of the damage.
- File a police report for theft/burglary.
- Submit an itemized list of damaged or lost items.
- Allow the surveyor to inspect.
- Receive settlement based on policy coverage.
5. Personal Accident Insurance Claims
These claims are filed in the event of accidental injury, disability, or death.
Common Personal Accident Claims
- Accidental injuries
- Permanent disability
- Temporary disability (loss of income)
- Accidental death
How to File a Personal Accident Claim
- Inform the insurer within the required time.
- Provide medical reports and hospital documents.
- Submit FIR (for major accidents).
- Provide proof of disability (doctor certificate).
- Insurer reviews and releases benefit payout.
6. Property or Business Insurance Claims
Businesses commonly file claims for damage to property, stock, equipment, or machinery.
Common Business Insurance Claims
- Fire & explosion
- Machinery breakdown
- Theft & burglary
- Natural disaster damage
- Liability claims (customer injury, property damage)
How to File a Property/Commercial Claim
- Notify the insurer immediately.
- Document all damages with photos/video.
- File FIR for theft or vandalism.
- Submit inventory list, invoices, or purchase proofs.
- Cooperate with inspection.
- Receive settlement based on policy terms.
General Tips for Smooth Claim Settlement
✔️ Report the incident immediately
Delays can cause rejection.
✔️ Keep photo/video evidence
Insurance companies require proof.
✔️ Read policy coverage & exclusions
Understand what is NOT covered before filing.
✔️ Keep all original bills & documents
Especially for health and travel insurance.
✔️ Choose network hospitals/garages
Cashless options reduce stress.
✔️ Be honest in your statements
False claims lead to denial and legal issues.
Common Reasons Claims Get Rejected
- Late notification
- Missing documents
- Non-disclosure of facts
- Exclusions not understood
- Invalid or expired policy
- Fraud or false information
FAQs
1. What is the most common type of general insurance claim?
Motor insurance and health insurance claims are the most frequently filed.
2. How long does a claim settlement take?
It depends on the insurer and policy type, but most claims are settled within 7–30 days.
3. Can my claim be rejected?
Yes. Claims can be rejected for missing documents, policy exclusions, false information, or late reporting.
4. Do I need FIR for every claim?
No. FIR is required mainly for major accidents, theft, or burglary.
5. How can I speed up claim settlement?
Submit complete documentation, provide accurate information, and choose network service providers.
Conclusion
Filing a general insurance claim doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the most common types of claims and following the correct steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful claim process. Keep documents organized, report incidents quickly, and always read your policy terms.
A correctly filed claim saves time — and ensures you get the financial protection you paid for.
