Car damaged by chemical liquid is covered by insurance.

KatadataOTO – Some time ago, hundreds of drivers became victims of a chemical liquid incident, namely caustic soda liquid or NaOH. The substance spilled on the Purwakarta-Padalarang Highway, West Bandung, West Java.

This incident caused parts of the cars to turn white. It also caused damage to several components.

Based on the above, vehicle owners can actually file for compensation if they have insurance.

“Basically, if the damage is caused by a chemical liquid originating from outside the car and is not an item carried by the insured, you don't need to worry,” said Laurentius Iwan Pranoto, Head of PR, Marcomm, and Event at Asuransi Astra in an official statement.

Photo : X @inginkayaaaa

Laurentius explained that the incident can be submitted for a claim to the insurance company. This is in accordance with the provisions in the PSAKBI (Indonesian Standard Motor Vehicle Insurance Policy).

However, if the liquid is carried, transported, loaded, and is inside the car and then causes a loss, it cannot be covered, according to PSAKBI Chapter II Article 3 or 2 point 2.2.

“This coverage does not guarantee loss and/or damage to the motor vehicle or costs directly or indirectly caused by or arising from chemical substances, water, or other liquid objects inside the motor vehicle unless it is a result of a risk guaranteed by the policy,” reads the article.

Therefore, to help car owners, Asuransi Astra, Garda Oto offers two types of coverage, namely Comprehensive, which provides guarantees for minor, major damage, and even loss, and TLO (Total Loss Only).

This can later provide a guarantee for total loss or damage where the repair cost must be greater than or equal to 75 percent of the actual value.

Then there are also coverage extensions to provide more protection for the vehicle and the driver to get a sense of safety and comfort on the road.

Photo : Asuransi Astra

Now, if you already have insurance, there are several mandatory things to pay attention to when you intend to file a repair claim, here is the review.

Things to Consider Before Filing a Vehicle Insurance Claim

• Ensure the car insurance policy and the driver's license are active.
• Have a valid STNK (Vehicle Registration Certificate) and a statement letter from the local police.
• Do not violate traffic rules or signs (such as driving on the shoulder, exceeding the speed limit, or overloading).
• The vehicle's use must be in accordance with what is stated in the policy. If the policy is for personal use but the vehicle is used for rental or hire, it cannot be guaranteed by the insurance company.
• Not be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
• Understand the provisions of the guaranteed risks, the coverage extensions you have, and the exclusions in the policy.