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Diwali is certainly a festival of lights and joy, but the joy of bursting firecrackers can sometimes prove fatal. Often, news of a firecracker falling on a car and setting it on fire, or a burning sparkler burning near a bike, raises the question: Does an insurance company cover claims for such incidents? The answer is either yes or no, but it depends on your insurance policy.

If your vehicle has comprehensive insurance, you may receive a claim.
If your car or two-wheeler is covered under a comprehensive insurance policy, you can claim for damage caused by firecrackers during Diwali. Such policies cover damage caused by fire, blast, short circuit, lightning, self-ignition, or any external cause.

This means that if your vehicle catches fire due to a burning firecracker, the insurance company can repair it or compensate for the damage, provided you meet all the necessary conditions.

If you only have third-party insurance, you won't receive a claim.
If you only have third-party insurance, you won't receive any claim for personal damage to your vehicle during Diwali. Third-party policies only cover damage or injury to someone else, not your own vehicle.

What should I do to file an insurance claim?
If your vehicle is damaged by firecrackers on an occasion like Diwali, it's crucial to immediately prepare photo and video evidence. Then, inform the insurance company without delay.

In some cases, you may also need to submit an FIR or fire brigade report, especially if the damage is significant. The company will then conduct its own investigation to determine how the damage occurred. Was it an accidental fire or due to negligence?

When can an insurance claim be rejected?
If the investigation reveals that the fire was caused by your own fault, such as lighting firecrackers near the vehicle or parking the vehicle in a location where there was a prior hazard warning, the insurance company may reject the claim. Similarly, if it is proven that the incident was intentional or there was negligence in vehicle safety, you will still not receive any compensation.

First, check the coverage of your insurance policy. You will only receive relief if the policy includes fire and accident cover. A little caution, along with the festive fun, can save your pocket from a huge loss. The assurance of insurance works only if you yourself remain vigilant.

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