OC compensation — basics

OC compensation is designed to restore the injured party to the position they were in before the damage. In practice, this means reimbursing justified repair, medical and other documented costs that are causally linked to the incident.

When OC compensation applies

Compensation applies when damage is caused by a party covered by OC insurance. It can include both property damage and personal injury.

What it can cover

Typical claim elements include:

• repair or restoration costs,
• vehicle loss of value,
• medical and rehabilitation costs,
• lost income,
• other documented losses related to the incident.

How to file and prepare documents

Documentation is key:

1. File the claim with the insurer.
2. Provide a clear incident description and proof.
3. Include cost estimates or invoices if available.
4. Provide medical documentation for personal injury.

Documents and evidence — practical checklist

Prepare a full set before the inspection:

• photos from multiple angles and close‑ups,
• the at‑fault driver’s statement or police note,
• vehicle data and the at‑fault OC policy number,
• workshop estimate or preliminary valuation,
• invoices for towing, parking and replacement car,
• medical documents and receipts if there are injuries.

The rule is simple: the more solid evidence, the harder it is to underpay.

Partial vs total loss

In partial loss, the repair cost is assessed. In total loss, the vehicle’s pre‑loss value and salvage value matter — often a dispute point.

Contributory negligence

If the insurer claims contributory negligence, the payment may be reduced. You can request the calculation basis and challenge it if unsupported.

Timelines

Insurers should act without undue delay. Standard cases follow statutory timelines; complex cases may take longer. Delays can trigger interest issues.

Reporting timing and limitation

Report the loss as soon as possible to secure evidence and inspections. OC claims are time‑barred, but deadlines depend on the type of loss and circumstances — in practice it is safer not to wait and to verify the current limitation rules.

Estimate the amount

Use the OC compensation calculator for an indicative estimate.

Common mistakes

• missing documentation,
• ignoring loss of value,
• skipping medical costs,
• accepting the first decision without review.

Underpaid decision

If the decision is too low, file an appeal and support it with evidence. See underpaid OC compensation — top‑up.

Repair: estimate vs invoices

Insurers may settle on an estimate basis or on invoices. For estimates, labor rates and parts prices should reflect market levels. For invoices, costs must be real and linked to the repair.

Direct settlement (BLS)

Some insurers allow you to report the loss to your own insurer (BLS). It can be convenient, but the scope depends on internal agreements. Ask whether BLS covers the full damage and any limits.

Replacement car and towing

Towing and a replacement car are often claimable if justified and documented. Keep contracts, invoices and usage dates.

Loss of value

Even after repair, a vehicle can be worth less. Loss of value may be a separate claim item if properly justified.

What can reduce the payout

Typical reasons include:

• contributory negligence,
• inconsistent documentation,
• undocumented additional costs,
• disputes about the damage scope.

Keeping evidence consistent and well‑explained helps avoid reductions.

Personal injuries and non‑material harm

If a person was injured, medical costs and compensation for harm may apply. Good medical documentation is essential.

How to read the insurer’s decision

Check which costs were included, which rates were used, whether any items were omitted and whether any reductions were justified.

What to do if the decision is delayed

If the payment deadline slips, send a reminder and ask for the reasons in writing. If delays persist, file a complaint and consider support from consumer financial protection institutions.