1. Contact Insurance: Immediately notify your car insurance company about the incident. Provide them with all the necessary details, such as the date and time of the fire and the garage where the car was stored.
2. Document the Damage: Take photographs of the garage and your vehicle to document the extent of the damage. If possible, obtain the contact information of any witnesses who saw the incident.
3. Police report: File a police report regarding the fire and the damaged vehicle. The police report will serve as an official record of the incident.
4. Determine Cause of Fire: Work with the fire department or other relevant authorities to determine the cause of the fire. This information may be crucial for insurance purposes.
5. Secure Evidence: Collect any remnants or parts of your car that may be salvageable. This evidence could be helpful for the insurance company's evaluation.
6. Review Insurance Policy: Carefully review your insurance policy to understand the coverage limits, exclusions, and requirements. This will help you determine the extent of your coverage.
7. Contact the Garage Owner's Insurance: If your friend's garage was insured, reach out to their insurance company. They may cover certain damages related to the structure and its contents.
8. Professional Appraisal: If needed, arrange for a professional appraisal of the vehicle's pre-fire condition and its current salvage value. This will aid in determining the appropriate compensation.
9. Obtain Repair/Replacement Cost Estimates: Get estimates from reputable auto repair shops or dealerships to repair or replace your vehicle. Provide these estimates to your insurance company for reimbursement purposes.
10. Negotiate Settlement: Work with your insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement amount for the damaged vehicle. Consult a legal professional if you encounter difficulties or disputes during the claims process.
It's important to stay organized, keep all relevant documents, communicate effectively with insurance companies and relevant parties, and take prompt action to ensure a successful resolution.
