Songkhla: The Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) is expediting insurance claims for motor vehicles, houses, and commercial buildings in Southern Thailand. The OIC is prioritizing claims processing for 30,000 motor vehicle accident victims with damages totaling 7.5 billion baht, and for houses and commercial buildings with damages estimated at 1.8 billion baht. All insurance companies are required to ensure prompt and fair compensation, with total loss claims to be processed within 3-7 days.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chuchat Pramoonpol, Secretary-General of the OIC, along with OIC executives and staff, visited Songkhla province to attend a meeting with senior executives of insurance companies. The meeting, held at the Songkhla Provincial Hall, focused on urgent solutions to the region’s flooding problems. Approximately 30,000 vehicles have sustained damage, with losses estimated at 7.5 billion baht, while about 26,000 homes and commercial buildings have reported damages amounting to 1.8 billion baht.
These initial figures may rise as surveys continue in affected areas and access improves. The OIC will work closely with insurance companies to compile and update data accurately. During the meeting, the OIC Secretary-General emphasized the need for quick and fair compensation, instructing that total loss claims be settled within 3-7 days and property insurance claims by year’s end.
Insurance companies have been urged to clarify residential insurance policy terms and conditions to employees, especially regarding sublimits, to prevent misinformation and complaints. Accurate and standardized communication is mandated to ensure policyholders receive correct information and can exercise their insurance rights. Additionally, companies must coordinate with repair shops to expedite vehicle repairs in line with policy terms.
Insurance companies have committed to processing total loss claims promptly and completing property insurance payments by the end of the year. This initiative aims to support the public during the crisis and enhance the industry’s post-disaster recovery role. The OIC has requested uniform standards for claims review to ensure consistency and accuracy.
The OIC is allocating full resources to this effort, stressing the importance of proactive and transparent public assistance. A central team has been deployed to support OIC Region 9 in Songkhla, liaising with insurance companies and agencies to resolve problems swiftly. For any insurance-related issues, the OIC hotline at 1186 is available 24 hours a day.