ASK anyone reeling under the scorching sun, what a good escape from the heat would be. In most likelihood, the answer would be —rains! But as we wait for the skies to open, this is probably the best time to do things that need attention before the rains. And we are talking about your car care. So here's what you should do.

Start with a check up
Some car manufacturers provide additional facilities such as car check up, periodic and general maintenance with focus on car parts, etc. especially during monsoon. Grab that chance and get your car checked.

Then, the protection
However, despite all the care, if your car still gets damaged, insurance will come at your rescue! So, here's some help on all you wanted to know about your car insurance.

There are two types of auto insurance—comprehensive and third party.

Third party insurance
This is mandatory if you own a car. It covers the damage inflicted by your vehicle to other vehicles or property. It protects you against legal liability arising due to accidental damages such as any permanent injury/death of a person, any damage caused to the property or person while driving. It does not pay you for any damage to your own car.

Comprehensive insurance
It insures the vehicle against natural calamities such as earthquakes, floods, typhoons and man made calamities such as burglary, thefts, riots, strikes etc. It also provides personal accident cover for the individual driver owner and passengers of the insured vehicle while travelling, entering, or climbing out from the vehicle.

Both comprehensive and third party insurance are valid only for a year. The policy needs to be renewed every year. The premium of the insurance is dependent on parameters like vehicle segment, value etc.

How to make a claim?
Now, that you are aware of what car insurance can do for you, let us now understand how you can claim your insurance, in case of damage during the monsoon.

If your car is lost in floods or has fully submerged in water, at once inform the insurance company. A surveyor will be appointed who will survey your submerged car and submit the report. In case of car loss, the insurance company will take up your case accordingly.

Follow these steps to make a claim.

1. Make a note of the claim reference, which you will get on making a claim. Also, make a list of the documents required for claim processing.

2. A surveyor will be appointed by the insurance company who will inspect the damaged, submerged car,. He will then submit his recommendations to the insurance company.

3. Nowadays, most mobile phones come equipped with camera and video facilities. If possible try taking pictures and videos of the damaged car. You can submit it as proof to the insurance company, which will then pay you for the loss according to the sum agreed upon for loss incurred.

4. Check whether the insurance company has a preferred garage and make a note of the details.

Also read: So your car's banged up!

Next page: A few pointers to keep in mind

Illustration: Vaibhav Shirke

Abitha Deepak is Head of Content & Research at BankBazaar.com - An online marketplace where you can instantly get loan rate quotes, compare and apply online for all your personal loan, home loan and credit card needs from India's leading banks and NBFCs.