As heavy rains persist in the UAE, motorists are increasingly turning to their insurance providers for assistance with damages incurred during the deluge.

However, not all rain-related insurance claims are approved, as several factors could lead to rejection. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of rain-related insurance claims in the UAE and explore the reasons why some claims may face rejection.

Lack of Comprehensive Coverage

One of the primary reasons for rejected rain-related insurance claims is the absence of comprehensive coverage. Many motorists opt for basic insurance policies that may not include coverage for damages caused by natural disasters such as floods or storms.

Consequently, claims for damages incurred during heavy rains may be rejected if the policy does not explicitly cover such events.

Failure to Follow Proper Procedures

Insurance companies in the UAE have specific procedures that policyholders must follow when filing a claim. Failure to adhere to these procedures, such as not reporting the incident promptly or providing incomplete documentation, can result in claim rejection.

Motorists are advised to familiarise themselves with their insurance policy's claims process and ensure compliance to avoid potential rejections.

Pre-existing Damage or Wear and Tear

Insurance companies may reject rain-related claims if the damages incurred are deemed to result from pre-existing damage or wear and tear. For example, if a vehicle's roof leaks during heavy rains due to poor maintenance or aging, the insurance company may argue that the damage was not caused solely by the rain and therefore reject the claim.

Exclusion of Acts of God

Some insurance policies may include exclusions for "acts of God," which typically encompass natural disasters such as floods, storms, or earthquakes. If the policy explicitly excludes coverage for damages caused by such events, rain-related claims may be rejected on this basis.

Inaccurate or Misleading Information

Providing inaccurate or misleading information when filing a rain-related insurance claim can also lead to rejection. Motorists are advised to provide truthful and accurate details regarding the circumstances of the incident and the extent of the damages to ensure the validity of their claim.

While rain-related insurance claims can offer much-needed financial assistance to motorists dealing with damages incurred during heavy rains, it is essential to understand the factors that could lead to claim rejection.

By ensuring comprehensive coverage, following proper procedures, addressing pre-existing damage and providing accurate information, motorists can increase the likelihood of their rain-related insurance claims being approved.

As heavy rains continue to impact the UAE, motorists are encouraged to review their insurance policies and take proactive measures to protect themselves against potential claim rejections.

(The writer is a legal associate at NYK Law Firm, one of the top legal consultants in Dubai)

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