Natural disaster motor insurance: What vehicle owners need to know

Muscat: Motor vehicle insurance coverage for natural disasters in Oman includes compensation for physical damage to a vehicle caused by officially classified natural disasters, according to insurance guidelines approved by the relevant authorities.

The coverage applies specifically to damage affecting the vehicle’s body and structural components when the incident results directly from a natural disaster recognised by Omani authorities.

Policyholders are required to submit insurance claims within 30 days from the date of the disaster. Compensation is calculated based on the vehicle’s prevailing market value, with a maximum payout capped at OMR 5,000.

Exclusions and limitations

1. The insurance does not cover several types of damage, including:

2. Loss or damage to property inside or outside the vehicle

3. Damage caused by traffic accidents, unless directly linked to the natural disaster

Vehicles bearing non-Omani registration plates

1. Damage sustained while continuing to drive after an accident resulting from injury

2. Damage arising from training use, intentional acts, theft, or fire—unless the fire is officially classified as part of the natural disaster

3. Third-party claims alone do not automatically classify the insured vehicle as a total loss

Authorities have urged motorists to review their insurance policies carefully and adhere to claim timelines to ensure eligibility for compensation in the event of natural disasters.

ENDS