Navigating Your Insurance Claim After Cyclone Alfred: Practical Steps to Get Back on the Road

Extreme weather events like Cyclone Alfred can cause significant damage to vehicles and property. Tropical Cyclone Alfred crossed Moreton Bay as a category 1 early on Saturday morning and was quickly downgraded to a tropical low. Although cyclonic impacts were less severe than initially expected, some areas have experienced significant damage, and the threat of flooding from continued rainfall remains high. On Sunday alone, rainfall totals reached 262mm in Brisbane City and 266mm at Mount Coot-tha, while parts of Logan and the Gold Coast remain at risk of major flooding. If you've been affected, navigating an insurance claim can feel overwhelming. Here's a practical, step-by-step guide to simplify the process and help you get back on the road quickly.

Step 1: Assess and Document the Damage

As soon as it's safe, carefully inspect your vehicle.

• Take clear photographs from multiple angles.
• Record a video walkthrough if possible.
• Write down details like the date, location, and circumstances.
• Note any damage to personal items inside the vehicle.

Detailed records strengthen your insurance claim and speed up processing.

Step 2: Contact Your Insurer Immediately

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.

• Use your insurer’s emergency hotline or online portal.
• Clearly explain what happened and provide your policy number.
• Follow the insurer's instructions about next steps.

Acting quickly reduces delays in processing your claim.

Step 3: Keep Your Vehicle Safe

Prevent further damage to your vehicle after the initial event.

• Move your vehicle to a sheltered location if safe.
• Cover broken windows or exposed areas securely.
• Do not attempt repairs before consulting your insurer.

Protecting your vehicle from additional harm is your responsibility.

Step 4: Prepare for Inspection

Your insurer may send an assessor to evaluate the damage.

• Have all documentation and images ready.
• Be available for any questions or clarifications.
• Ask for the assessor's identification and record their details.

Being organised ensures accuracy and clarity during assessment.

Step 5: Review Your Claim Settlement Carefully

Your insurer will provide a claim settlement offer.

• Examine the offer thoroughly.
• Confirm it covers all documented damage and costs.
• Question anything unclear or incomplete immediately.

Make sure you're fully compensated before accepting the settlement.

When Your Car is a Write-Off

Sometimes, severe events result in vehicles being declared total losses.

• Understand the insurer’s valuation process.
• Check recent market values yourself.
• Discuss discrepancies openly with your insurer.

Knowing your vehicle's worth helps secure a fair payout.

Car Finance and Your Insurance Claim

If you have an outstanding car loan, contact your lender immediately.

• Inform your lender about the damage.
• Confirm how an insurance payout affects your loan.
• Discuss options for settling outstanding finance.

Quick communication can prevent unexpected complications.

What if Your Insurance Claim is Denied?

Claims might be denied for various reasons.

• Request written reasons for denial.
• Review your policy to ensure the denial is justified.
• Consider lodging an internal dispute or contacting the Ombudsman.

You have the right to challenge unfair decisions.

Financial Support After Extreme Weather

After events like Cyclone Alfred, financial stress is common.

• Look into temporary hardship arrangements with your lender.
• Explore short-term car loan options if replacement is urgent.
• Seek professional financial advice if unsure.

Taking proactive steps eases financial pressure during recovery.

Preparing for Future Extreme Weather Events

Preparation reduces the impact of future weather events.

• Regularly review your car insurance cover.
• Store digital copies of your insurance and loan documents.
• Have an emergency plan in place for quick evacuation.

Simple preparations can significantly reduce stress and financial loss.

We’re Here to Support You

We know it’s been a challenging time for many in Queensland and Northern NSW, and we want to do what we can to support you. If you’re still in need of a loan, we’re here to make the process easier. At CarClarity, we take the stress out of finding the right loan by comparing 40+ lenders to secure the best option for your situation—fast approvals, flexible terms, and no hassle. Whether you need to replace a vehicle, cover unexpected costs, or simply get back on track, we’re here to help.

For CarClarity Customers with Suncorp Insurance

If you’ve purchased Suncorp insurance through CarClarity, here’s what you need to know:

• Initiating your claim: Your safety is the top priority. Lodge your claim online anytime, even if you don't yet know the full extent of the damage. Suncorp’s claims centre is open 24/7 for support.
• Documentation required: You do not need a copy of your policy to lodge a claim. Suncorp already has your details.
• If you're dissatisfied with the outcome: Contact Suncorp directly via:
  • Phone: 13 11 55
  • Email: customer.relations@suncorp.com.au
  • Mail: GPO Box 1453, Brisbane QLD 4001

For additional help, visit:

• Suncorp Insurance
• Suncorp Extreme Weather Assistance

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