Car Accident Compensation: Why Filing with the OIC Might Not Work

Stay one step ahead of insurers—and protect your rights before it’s too late

When a road accident happens, many people assume that having insurance is enough. But in reality, claiming compensation—especially for “loss of use” of your vehicle—is not an easy matter. This often leads to lengthy disputes between the victim and the insurer. In many cases, even filing a complaint with the Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) may not yield results, especially if you lack legal knowledge or professional guidance.

Real Case Example: Ms. A Took Matters into Their Own Hands—and Lost

In a clear example, Ms. A was involved in a car accident on July 10, 2024, and their car required 240 days of repairs. When they filed for “loss-of-use compensation,” the insurer offered only THB 500 per day for 60 days, totaling THB 30,000. Believing it was unfair, they filed a complaint with the OIC themselves. The OIC mediated, and the insurer increased the offer to 70 days—THB 35,000—still far below their actual loss.

Mediation—or Persuasion?

Feeling unjustly treated, Mr./Ms. A then consulted Wongsakorn Law Office and spoke with Lawyer Arm, a specialist in insurance claims. But it was too late. Because the victim had initiated mediation before obtaining legal advice, they were at a disadvantage from the beginning.

Lawyer Arm explains:

“Mediation without knowledge often becomes persuasion—insurance companies come prepared with legal teams, negotiation tactics, even psychological strategies. If the victim lacks knowledge, they may agree to subpar deals, unknowingly giving up rights.”

Did You Know? You Can Claim More Than THB  500 Per Day!

Many believe “loss-of-use compensation” is capped at THB 300–500/day, but in truth, if you can prove actual financial loss—e.g., using the vehicle for business or delivery—you may claim THB 800–1,500 per day, depending on evidence and circumstances.

Key Point: Knowledge and Strategy Are Essential

Insurance companies often start with low offers. Without negotiation, proper documentation, or legal support, you risk losing deserving compensation.

Lawyer Arm’s Advice: Don’t Go to the OIC Alone if You’re Unsure

Many see the OIC as a last resort—which is true in theory. But in practice, if you go in without a plan or expert support, you might fall victim to what’s known as “rights-reducing mediation.” Insurers may use this stage to push you into accepting less, hoping to close the case quickly.

“If you intend to file with the OIC, hire a lawyer from the start—or at least seek legal advice beforehand.”
Once you’re at a disadvantage in OIC mediation, reversing or reclaiming your rights is extremely difficult, and you may lose them entirely.

Don’t Be Unnecessarily Disadvantaged!

🔍 Watch Lawyer Arm’s video tutorial series:

Key Takeaways

• Don’t underestimate insurance companies—they have teams and tactics ready before any accident occurs.
• You can claim more compensation than you may think.
• Filing with the OIC without preparation may put you at legal disadvantage.
• Consult an attorney from the start—that’s your best defense.
• Don’t wait until you’ve lost your rights like Mr./Ms. A.

If you want to avoid going through a frustrating, unfair process, contact Wongsakorn Law Office today—or click “Contact Us” on their website.