Bangkok:The Secretary-General of the Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) has announced guidelines for filing insurance claims amid flooding, emphasizing that safety is paramount. Individuals unable to access affected areas should inform their insurance companies for inspections. A 24-hour hotline, 1186, has been established, and claims can be checked via the OIC website and LINE @OICCONNECT.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chuchat Pramoonpol, Secretary-General of the OIC, detailed the procedures for claiming compensation for damages caused by flooding. He stressed the importance of prioritizing safety over collecting evidence in hazardous conditions. Once conditions permit, policyholders should review their insurance coverage, notify their insurers, and document any damage. The OIC has coordinated with insurers to ensure adequate resources are available to manage the anticipated influx of claims.

For vehicles affected by flooding, it is crucial to verify insurance coverage for flood damage. Type 1 car insurance usually covers such damage, while Type 2+ and 3+ policies may require additional coverage. Flooded vehicles should not be started immediately to prevent further damage. Once safe, policyholders should document the damage and report it to their insurer, providing necessary details for inspection and assessment.

Policyholders unable to capture evidence during the incident, or who needed to evacuate, are advised to notify insurers without risking their safety. Damage assessments will be based on factual evidence and policy terms. The OIC has established guidelines for assessing vehicle damage based on water levels, with estimated repair costs provided for different levels of flooding. For electric vehicles, battery damage and vehicle specifications must also be considered.

For property damage, policyholders should confirm their coverage for natural disasters and document the damage once safe. Insurers will expedite the dispatch of claims adjusters to survey and assess damage. In areas still inaccessible, the situation will be monitored, and actions will be taken as circumstances allow.

Once damage assessments are completed, the OIC has instructed insurers to expedite coverage and compensation considerations, particularly for severe damage and total loss cases, aiming for compensation payment within seven days if evidence is clear. The OIC will assist with documentation for vehicles under hire-purchase agreements.

The OIC has also established a "One-Stop Insurance Claim Center for All Companies" to streamline claims filing and communication with insurers. This resource is available via the OIC website and LINE Official Account @OICCONNECT, providing policyholders with 24/7 access to their insurance information and assistance with claims processes.

Mr. Pramoonpol urged policyholders not to endanger themselves for claim documentation and assured that insurers are prepared to process claims efficiently, ensuring affected individuals receive compensation promptly according to their policy rights and conditions.