Car Insurance All Risk: How to Make the Most of Your Coverage Before Your Policy Expires
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| Learn how to maximize your All Risk car insurance before your policy expires. Discover the claim process, deductible fees, repair experience, and practical tips to save money on vehicle repairs. |
If you have an All Risk (Comprehensive) car insurance policy, minor damages such as scratches, paint chips, dents, or small body imperfections may be covered, depending on the terms and conditions of your policy.
One policyholder recently shared their experience filing a second claim with Sinar Mas Insurance. Initially, they ignored several minor scratches on their vehicle because the damage seemed insignificant. However, as the insurance policy was approaching its expiration date, they contacted the insurer to ask whether these cosmetic damages were still eligible for coverage.
After consulting with the insurance representative, they learned that the minor damage could indeed be claimed under their All Risk policy.
Filing the Insurance Claim
The claim process began by submitting a report through the official Sinar Mas Insurance mobile application. A few days later, an insurance surveyor visited to inspect the vehicle.
During the inspection, every damaged panel was carefully marked, and the policyholder was asked to explain how each scratch and dent had occurred. This information was necessary to support the claim approval process before a repair authorization letter (Work Order/SPK) could be issued.
The owner also pointed out dissatisfaction with a previously replaced body panel, explaining that the paint quality had faded and no longer looked original. This concern was included in the inspection report for further consideration.
Why an Accurate Damage Report Matters
This experience highlights the importance of providing a detailed and honest explanation of every damaged area. A clear description helps insurance assessors evaluate the claim more efficiently and increases the likelihood that all eligible repairs will be approved.
After completing the inspection, the surveyor concluded that multiple sections of the vehicle required repairs.
Understanding the Own Risk Fee
Like many comprehensive insurance policies in Indonesia, each approved repair point required the policyholder to pay an Own Risk (deductible) fee of IDR 300,000.
Although the vehicle had several damaged panels, the total deductible was still significantly lower than paying the full repair cost out of pocket. For extensive repainting and body repairs, comprehensive insurance can save vehicle owners millions of rupiah.
Repair Process at an Authorized Workshop
The vehicle was then delivered to an authorized Mitsubishi body repair workshop.
However, another issue emerged.
The repair authorization document issued by the insurance company did not fully match the surveyor's inspection report. Several damaged panels that had been marked during the inspection were missing from the work order.
As a result, the policyholder had to return home while the insurance company revised the repair authorization.
This unexpected delay became one of the most frustrating parts of the entire process.
Always Review Your Repair Authorization
Before leaving your vehicle at a repair shop, carefully review the repair authorization document to ensure that every approved repair is listed correctly.
Taking a few extra minutes to verify the paperwork can prevent unnecessary delays and repeated visits to the workshop.
Repair Time Took Longer Than Expected
The repair process ultimately took approximately one month.
The delay was mainly caused by difficulties obtaining replacement body panels and coordinating between the insurance company and the repair workshop.
According to the vehicle owner, the insurance company had initially offered to help source the required parts. However, the workshop later informed them that some components were unavailable, resulting in additional waiting time.
While the extended repair period was frustrating, the finished result was largely satisfying.
The Final Result
Once the repairs were completed, the vehicle looked almost brand new.
Most of the body panels had been repainted professionally, and the overall appearance improved significantly. Although a few areas did not perfectly match the original paint finish, the owner rated the repair quality highly and appreciated the overall outcome.
The repaired vehicle was even delivered directly to the owner's office, eliminating the need for another long trip to the workshop.
Tips to Maximize Your Car Insurance Benefits
If you have an All Risk car insurance policy, consider these practical tips:
- Don't ignore minor scratches or dents if they may qualify for coverage.
- Contact your insurance provider before filing a claim to confirm eligibility.
- Take clear photos of every damaged area.
- Explain the cause of each damage honestly and in detail.
- Review the repair authorization carefully before sending your vehicle to the workshop.
- File your claim before your insurance policy expires if eligible repairs are still covered.
Final Thoughts
Comprehensive car insurance is designed to provide financial protection against both major and minor vehicle damage. While the claim process may sometimes involve inspections, paperwork, and waiting periods, using your policy effectively can significantly reduce repair costs.
Every insurance provider has different policy terms, exclusions, deductibles, and claim procedures. Therefore, policyholders should always read their insurance agreement carefully and consult their insurer whenever they are unsure about their coverage.
By understanding how your car insurance works and making timely claims, you can keep your vehicle in excellent condition while avoiding expensive repair bills.