GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Insurance is undoubtedly a saviour in unfortunate times. It is a guarded mechanism that allows you to prepare for financial losses arising from accidents, damages, or death against which you are insured. Insurance penetration, a ratio of insurance premium payments to the country's GDP, rose to 4.2% in FY21, still lagging behind the global average of 7.2%.

The slow but steady rise of awareness regarding insurance products amid the pandemic is the reason behind such progress. Picking up on increasing demand, insurance companies have refined processes to make their services more reliable and accessible. One such move is the launch of an e-insurance account which makes it easier for policyholders to keep track of and renew online general insurance and other crucial policies.

Read on to learn about e-insurance accounts and how to set one up.

E-insurance account.

An e-insurance account, also known as e-IA, is a step towards the digitalisation of the insurance industry. It serves as a repository that stores all your insurance policies- including life, health, motor, insurance, etc. In 2013, the IRDAI introduced the digitised policy to allow insurance to go paperless and give policyholders access to their insurance portfolio in a few clicks.

Fundamental features of an e-IA.

Hereafter referred to as e-IA, an e-insurance account provides the following features:

● Every individual can only open one e-IA in their name.

● Once linked, each insurance policy under the e-IA is known as an e-insurance policy.

● Data safety is ensured with each account holder being provided unique login credentials and account numbers for their e-IA.

Benefits of an e-IA.

1. Digitally secure insurance:
Preserving records online eliminates the possibility of theft or misplacement of policies. Additionally, the documents stay secure perpetually, making them easy to access for the nominee in case of the policyholder's death to initiate a claim at the earliest.

2. Simplified payment platform:
Visiting various websites to renew policies with multiple insurers is a hassle. E-IA simplifies the process by making it possible to pay your online general insurance premiums to various insurance companies from the insurance repository's online portal.

3. One time KYC:
KYC compliance has been a lax part of the process until recently. With constant changes to the insurance purchasing process to reduce fraud claims and loopholes, KYC compliance has become compulsory for buying any insurance policy. Instead of submitting the details multiple times while purchasing a policy, by stating your e-IA number, your policy will automatically be linked to your account, eliminating the need for providing KYC details.

4. Zero charges set-up:
You can open e-insurance accounts with your preferred insurance repository authorised by the IRDAI. This includes the Central Insurance Repository Limited, NSDL Database Management Limited, CAMS Repository Services Limited, and Karvy Insurance Repository Limited. These accounts are set up free of cost to incentivise customers to shift to digitalised platforms.

5. Convenient management:
There is no greater benefit of e-IAs than the ease of compilation. It makes it easy to view all your policies- general and non-general together and, keep track of the policy period, renewal date, and process premium payments. This overview is an excellent way to minimise the chances of a lapse in online general insurance and life insurance policies.

Opening an e-IA account.

Now that you're aware of the benefits of an e-IA, here are four simple steps to open your account:

1. Pick your preferred insurance repository from the four eligible repositories mentioned above.

2. Download the e-IA opening form available on their website.

3. Carefully fill out the form and attach self-attested KYC documents along with personal, bank, and contact details. You may not require KYC documents if opening your account through an insurance company, in which case, the company sends the details collected before.

4. Submit the documents and filled form to the insurance repository.

E-insurance accounts are set to transform the perception of the insurance sector and its products. With introductions like online general insurance, automated premium payments, and one-stop repositories, we anticipate Indian insurance penetration to catch up with global figures soon!

Click HERE to buy online general insurance.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

If you have recently operated on for surgery, you might be curious about how to recover quickly so you can return to your daily work routine. While you are in the hospital, your surgeon does his part, but once you are discharged, healing is your responsibility.

Also, remember a personal accident insurance policy offers comprehensive financial security to the insured against unforeseen events like accidental death, physical harm, partial or whole disability, and permanent and temporary disabilities brought on by accident.

Here are five tips to speed up your recovery so you can resume your life as soon as possible:

1. Prevent infection:
For your procedure to be successful, infection prevention is essential. One of the most specific and crucial rehabilitation activities is washing your hands before touching your wound or dressing your stitches.
Rare surgical site infections typically appear 30 days after surgery. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile to ask your doctor what you can do to keep your skin capable of preventing infection.

2. Give your body the necessary energy to heal:
Even if you don't feel like eating after surgery, giving your body the energy it needs to heal is vital. Selecting proteins such as chicken, eggs, and others is essential for healing. Fruits are a good source of vitamin C, which has also been proven to speed up recovery. Foods containing iron and B12, such as fish and eggs, aid in the body's production of the necessary new blood cells. Consume fibre and probiotics for the immune system to combat illness and restore your original health condition.

3. Verify your incision:
Even though it may not be your favourite activity, you must closely examine your incision multiple times a day. Is the wound red or pink? Are there any visible staples or stitches? These inquiries are crucial, and looking at your incision will allow you to ascertain whether or not your surgical site is still healing or has developed an infection.

4. Rise and shine:
When you can, get up and start moving. Moving encourages the flow of blood, which aids in the healing process. You can also prevent harmful blood clots by walking or getting the wounded body part moving. The likelihood of acquiring pneumonia is lowered by light activity. Once the doctor provides the go-ahead, begin the stretching and muscle-building therapy.

5. Observe the recommendations of your healthcare provider:
You will only make much progress if you hear this message. A postoperative patient should adhere to all the recommendations specified by their healthcare professionals.
Some guidelines may limit your freedom of movement, such as the recommendation to wait a few weeks following surgery before taking a bath, swimming, or lifting anything over 10 pounds.

6. Drinking and eating right:
After surgery, many people experience appetite loss. They might not feel hungry at all or feel queasy or constipated. Good nutrition and hydration can aid healing, reduce common risks, and help you recover fast.

7. Recognise when to visit the ER:
Call your doctor immediately if you're bleeding, having difficulties breathing, swallowing or drinking, urinating, or showing clear indications of infection. Your primary care physician or the emergency department should be your next port of call if you cannot reach your surgeon.

8. Inhale and exhale carefully:
Who knew that after some procedures, the way you've always coughed and sneezed wasn't the "correct way"? If you sneeze or cough improperly while wearing an abdominal incision, it can seriously damage your incision.
A new surgical incision can open up with a powerful sneeze. So, the incision must be braced while you sneeze or cough. You can accomplish this by covering the area with a cushion or using your hands.

Your post-surgery recovery depends on you adhering to the post-op instructions given by your doctor and showing up for your scheduled follow-up appointments. Additionally, taking care of your wound, eating healthfully to rebuild your strength, and managing your pain is crucial. Implement these top recommendations and invest in personal accident insurance online to help you completely focus on your recovery and not on medical expenses. Your accident policy will take care of all the finances and be a strong moral booster in the time of emergency.

Click HERE to buy personal accident insurance online.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Pedestrians have the right to cross the street without being restricted. Unfortunately, the road can throw various challenges knowing the road conditions and the reckless habits of drivers. It is imperative to prevent pedestrian accidents because they can cause serious injuries or even death. We'll review some essential advice in this blog to keep you safe on the road and prevent pedestrian accidents.

So, pedestrians, these tips can prevent you from getting into accidents. Let's get started.

1. Should use pedestrian crossings strictly:
There are places on the road called pedestrian crossings where people can safely cross. Using these crossings is crucial since they are frequently marked with zebra stripes, which make it obvious to drivers that pedestrians have the right of way. Before going into the crosswalk and crossing the road, look on both sides. Even though you have the privilege, it's best to be cautious and hold back until approaching cars have stopped before crossing the street.

2. You must be visible from a distance:
When it comes to the safety of pedestrians, visibility is crucial. When it's dark or there is little light, wearing bright or reflective clothing can assist vehicles in seeing you from a distance. Carry a flashlight or use the flashlight function on your smartphone to boost your visibility while strolling in an area without streetlights. You can lessen the likelihood that a car won't see you and could cause an accident by being visible.

3. Eliminate every distraction:
It's crucial to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings when walking. Steer clear of walking while texting, listening to music, or using your phone. These pursuits may divert your focus, making it difficult to see possible dangers like approaching traffic, potholes, or uneven surfaces. Step to the side of the road if you need to make a call or send a text to avoid obstructing other pedestrians or creating a safety concern.

4. Keep track of turning vehicles:
Pedestrians can be seriously endangered by turning vehicles, particularly if the driver doesn't see them. Always watch for cars pulling into driveways or crossroads, and make eye contact with the driver before crossing in front of them. Also, it's a good idea to listen for any engine noises or vehicle signs, such as horns or reverse alarms.

5. Be watchful about the traffic:
Always stroll traffic-facing if you're on the road without a sidewalk. This allows you to see approaching cars and, if necessary, move out of the way. When you walk with your back to the road, it can be more difficult for vehicles to notice you, which raises the possibility of an accident.

6. Observe traffic signs and abide by the rules:
The purpose of traffic signals is to control the movement of automobiles and pedestrians on the road. When crossing the street, always heed the traffic signals, especially pedestrian signals. Even if there are no oncoming vehicles, avoid attempting to cross the road when the pedestrian light is red. You risk putting yourself in danger by disobeying the signal since other drivers may be turning or speeding.

7. While around large vehicles, exercise caution:
Oversized vehicles with poor visibility, such as trucks, buses, and trailers, make it more difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Always use caution when navigating these vehicles and avoid wandering in or near their blind areas. Make eye contact with a bus or truck driver before crossing in front of them if you're walking close to one.

8. Keep an eye on the weather:
Rain, snow, or fog can impair visibility and make it riskier for pedestrians to cross the street. It's crucial to take extra precautions during bad weather, such as wearing reflective clothes or an umbrella to improve visibility.

In conclusion, the safety of pedestrians should never be taken for granted. Pedestrians can significantly lower their risk of getting injured in an accident by heeding the straightforward advice provided in this blog. And for unprecedented circumstances, you must purchase the best personal accident insurance India to safeguard yourself and your family against any life-threatening mishaps.

Click HERE to learn the benefits of purchasing personal accident insurance India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Over time, the world has come together to become a global village. Travelling to foreign countries, experiencing their culture, and taking advantage of the best offerings of other nations is more accessible now than it has ever been before, making education and working abroad favourable and highly sought-after opportunities. Many Indian students leave the country to study at international universities and improve their career prospects.

However, changing one's environment and relocating to a new place is a challenging task that requires extensive planning and budgeting. You should also consider purchasing general insurance plans covering yourself against any mishaps that may occur abroad.

With proper research and following the below-stated tips, you can easily plan for relocation to a foreign university!

1. Prep your documents:
Studying abroad requires significant planning, starting with where you wish to learn - the country, the university, and the course. Based on this choice, you will need a valid passport, visa, I-20, Government-issued identity proof, authenticated mark sheets, and more. Initiate the time-intensive process well before your expected departure date from your home country.

2. Make your bookings in advance:
Flight tickets are invariably expensive unless the airlines offer tremendous seasonal discounts. Once your application to your preferred institute and visa is accepted, it is ideal for researching and booking your travel tickets to avail flexible and inexpensive rates about three months in advance. Ensure that you choose an arrival date a few days before the expected start date of your course to allow yourself time to acclimatise to your new surroundings. Similarly, book on or off-campus accommodation in advance to save on inflated prices.

3. Build a network of local students:
Before embarking on your educational journey abroad, look for fellow country students who have been admitted into nearby institutes or courses in the same institute as you. Your institute's office of international affairs can also help you understand the general experience of living in the country and what to expect so that you can plan better. It also helps establish a friendly community you can rely on when you feel homesick.

4. Research on the country's culture:
Arriving in the country without any prior research about its customs, culture, and community puts you on the spot without knowing what to expect and how to deal with situations. While making connections with fellow students can help, do your primary research on the country, its traditions, beliefs, language, cuisine, and attractions to prepare yourself for your upcoming journey.

5. Purchase relevant insurance covers:
While this may seem unrelated while preparing for your studies abroad, it is necessary to remember that most foreign countries have considerably high living costs—adding medical and other expenses that you may incur due to the lack of proper financial planning results in excessive expenditure. Therefore, purchasing travel, health, and relevant general insurance plans is ideal for protecting yourself in unfamiliar situations.

6. Pack appropriately:
Being away from home for extended periods requires adequate packing. However, excessive baggage only adds to your troubles. A quick online search will inform you about the weather to expect, according to which you can pack weather-appropriate garments and essentials. While it may be tempting to overpack, plan objectively to pack the necessities and rely on the local markets for other requirements.

7. Prepare to adapt:
New surroundings always present challenges that you must overcome with time and experience. Since you are stepping into a new place, begin making the preparatory changes required to adjust. Mentally making currency exchange conversions, setting up an international mobile plan, and acquainting yourself with emergency numbers are basic tasks you should fulfil in advance to take on immersive experiences in foreign settings confidently.

New changes bring along thrilling opportunities. Once selected for an overseas university, focus on preparing the essentials like visa application, passport, general insurance plans, etc. Instead of second-guessing your decisions, prepare yourself to discover unique learning experiences overseas.

Click HERE to buy the best general insurance plans before you go abroad for your higher studies.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.