GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Disasters have many faces and can strike anytime, anywhere; they can be seen in the form of quakes, floods, gas leaks, explosions, etc. and one of the most commonly known faces of disaster is fire. Damage felt after a partial or full-blown fire mishap is quite painful and nearly unrecoverable. However, if you have your house insured with ironclad insurance from a well-reputed fire insurance company, then your hassles can be reduced to a minimum.

A fire insurance policy plays an essential role in dealing with the losses and damages incurred due to fire. It is highly recommended to purchase fire insurance to safeguard your homes from any future calamity that a sudden fire or smoke can cause.

Here are some of the tips you can follow if you face damage from fire or smoke in your homes.

• Ask for an advance against your claim: -  Right after the house has been gutted to fire, you might be forced to evacuate the house, considering the dangerous situation because of the smoke. In this case, you are eligible to get an advance from your insurance company so that you can buy your daily essentials. Inform your insurance company and ask it to issue a cheque and bring it to wherever you are staying. It will help you in this dire need and will be enough for your survival until your claim gets accepted.
• Checking for the extent of losses: - Once the fire tragedy is controlled, the first act of the homeowner is to calculate or check for the damage extent of personal belongings and property loss in the fire. Once the total loss is measured and counted, it will be easier for you to negotiate with officials handling the claim process.
• Having your receipts documented: - After facing a disastrous house fire, you may be forced to live in a temporary dwelling like a hotel or guesthouse close to your vicinity. It would be ideal to secure all the receipts, document all the costs and expenses carefully. Once you receive the claim for the house fire, you may also get a compensated amount you incurred on your living expenses.
• Check bank statements if you don’t have a receipt: - People tend to be careless when it comes to saving receipts for every new thing that they buy. While we might save receipts of the electronic items for warranty or claiming a refund, it’s not easy to keep those long bills every time you go for grocery shopping. However, your every online transaction would bring a huge relief; hence look for credit card statements and bank statements to prove the value of items.
• Back up your vocal claims with evidence: - After the fire tragedy, some items are destroyed or damaged to such an extent that for the insurer, it could be challenging to identify for assigning the claim. So, as a responsible party, you ought to click as many pictures and shoot videos as possible of the damaged, smoked rooms to show the physical evidence of the actual damage before it gets wiped by a restoration company.

Fire insurance is a contractual agreement between the policyholder and the insurer wherein the insurer in return for consideration or premium agrees to indemnify the policyholder or the insured person for the financial loss that he/she may suffer due to destruction of or damage to property or goods by fire during a specific period. You can buy as well as renew a fire insurance policy in India by online as well as offline ways.

The purchase of fire insurance helps to cover the cost of replacement, repair or reconstruction of the property, but fire insurance is generally not valid in case of war, nuclear risk or any such similar peril. Buying fire insurance is always a good idea because your property is your investment and buying a fire insurance policy will help you recover the damage and loss caused due to fire on your property.

Most of the policies offered by the different insurance providers cover the physical damage caused to your property by the following perils: -

• Fire
• Lightning
• Riot and Strike
• Earthquake, wind and storm
• Explosion
• Smoke damage
• Sprinkler Damage
• Damage due to aircraft
• Bush fire
• Subsidence, rockslides or landslides
• Impact damage which may occur due to the impact of road vehicles or animals or rails.

There are various types of fire insurance policies that are available in India, depending on the coverage requirement of the individual. The type of fire insurance policy in India you may choose also depends on whether the asset which is being insured is a fixed asset or a non-fixed asset. Depending on the type of asset being insured, insurance providers have different types of fire insurance policies available. The types of policies for fixed assets such as homes are: -

• Replacement Value Policy - The asset which has been insured is replaced if it is damaged by fire wherein the insurance company pays the replacement value of the damaged property.
• Reinstatement Value Policy - This is almost similar to the Replacement Value Policy but with an added clause that the insurance company will replace the damaged property to its original condition before the occurrence of the peril. This policy applies to fixed assets like buildings.

There are many different types of policies for non-fixed assets, such as: -

• Specific Policy - This policy covers the loss up to a specific amount which is less than the real value of the property.
• Comprehensive Policy - Also called ‘All in One’ policy, this policy covers loss due to fire, theft, burglary as well as other third-party damages.
• Valued Policy - Under this policy, the insured person can recover a fixed amount which was agreed to at the time the policy was bought.
• Floating Policy - This policy covers loss due to fire to property belonging to the same person but at different places.
• Valuable Policy - The sum insured is not decided at the time of buying the policy but instead, the claim amount is calculated at the time of loss.
• Consequential Loss Policy - This policy covers the loss in profit caused due to disruption of the business by damage due to fire.

Buying a fire insurance policy for your house or your goods is always a good decision, but you must buy a policy which covers the risk that you face and understand the nature of the asset that you want to insure and then buy an insurance policy accordingly.

Fire and related events can cause very big losses, and they have become one of the biggest causes of losses in recent times. The damage due to fire can include non-movable assets like homes and buildings as well as movable assets like goods. To ensure you are protected against any unforeseen damage of your property by fire or any fire-related event, you can buy fire insurance for your property from any of the fire insurance companies in India. Fire insurance involves many things and some things must be taken care of while buying fire insurance or renewing your insurance so that you need to pay a lesser premium as well as while filing claims so that you get the best deals.

Things covered under fire insurance: -

Fire, explosion and implosion Lightning Damage due to aircraft Strikes and riots Rockslides and landslides Impact damage Malicious damage Bush fire Smoke damage Storm, typhoon Sprinkler damage Earthquake

Things which fire insurance companies in India do not cover: -

Perils like war, civil war, invasion and similar events Rebellion or Martial law and similar events Underground fires and losses due to that Spontaneous Combustion Losses due to pollution or contamination Theft related losses occurring during or after the fire Consequential losses

What should be the policy amount of your fire insurance?

In most cases, the total sum for which you are buying the fire insurance should be equal to the total cost needed to rebuild or reinstate the property and the professional fees involved along with the charges for the removal of debris.

What is the difference between Replacement Value Policy and Reinstatement Value Policy for Fixed Assets?

In Replacement Value Policy, the insurance company pays the cost of replacing the complete asset that has been damaged or lost due to fire and related events whereas in case of a Reinstatement Value Policy; the insurance company pays the cost to replace the damaged property to its original condition it was in before the loss due to fire. While Replacement Value Policy can apply to other assets, the Reinstatement Value Policy is only applicable to buildings and no other assets.

When buying a fire insurance policy from fire insurance companies in India, you must consider the following things:

The type of risk that the policy covers and if the risk covered by the policy matches the risk you face for your property. The nature of the asset you want to insure because there are different types of policies available for fixed assets and many other different types of policies available for non-fixed assets. Understand the coverage duration of your policy and when to renew the policy.

What information you should get from the fire insurance company while buying the policy?

Premium Payable The insurance cancellation and refund policy Period of coverage Scope of policy coverage Non-standard exclusions Claims reporting procedures

What things are considered to calculate the premium?

The insurer uses many different kinds of data to come up with a final number which you need to pay as premium annually:

The type of policy The type of risk or risks covered The total sum insured The total value of the asset being insured How the asset being insured is used by the owner of the asset The expected risks that can damage the property being insured Whether the person has taken a policy extension or not

How to claim if your asset is damaged?

You need to immediately contact your insurer as soon as your insured property is damaged. The insurer may appoint an independent loss adjuster to take care of your claim, and you will be required to fill a form to start the claim process. The insurer will undertake proper investigation and will then accept the claim if everything is fine.

Bikes are nothing short of an adventure on two wheels. While they have always been highly preferred in the Indian market due to their convenience, relative inexpensiveness, and ease of learning and riding, bikes are also doubling as a means of thrill providers over the last few decades.

With the varied topographical diversity in India, adrenalin seekers that enjoy motorbiking have found new joy in off-roading. While taking your bike on the road not commonly taken may give you momentary exhilaration, keeping your safety in mind before taking on such adventures is essential. Purchase a bike insurance policy that covers accidents resulting from such extreme sports.

Before getting started on your off-roading journey, consider purchasing these add-on covers to your bike insurance –

1. Engine protection:
The bike's engine is quite literally the heart of the machine. Ensuring it is in excellent condition is essential, especially when taking on challenging terrains. Since off-roading involves steep and rocky inclines, it puts tremendous pressure on your bike's engine. This makes it more likely to break down and leads to high engine repair costs. This add-on provides coverage for all expenses allied with engine repairs and maintenance.

2. Zero depreciation:
Wear and tear is a natural occurrence, and your bike is no exception. Usually, in case of raising a claim, the insurance company only admits a partial amount of the insured sum after factoring in the depreciation costs of the bike parts. However, buying a zero-depreciation cover can help you receive a higher claim amount than in the absence of such cover, making it easier to finance the cost of replacing bike components.

3. Theft of personal belongings:
Unlike regular riding, dirt biking requires special equipment that enhances the rider's safety. Such personal belongings are often expensive and require additional care to maintain. In case your riding gear gets stolen, a personal possessions cover can help you recover the insured sum or the cost of the stolen assets, providing peace of mind and financial security.

4. Roadside assistance:
Breakdowns may be frequent, even for regular bikes used for standard conveyance purposes on paved roads. Harsher terrains inevitably lead to greater chances of bike breakdowns due to multiple uncontrollable factors and mechanical failures. In such emergencies, it is necessary to have a backup plan to rely on. A roadside assistance cover provides reassurance of help in unforeseen conditions, making it a key requirement to purchase.

5. Outstation emergency cover:
The outstation emergency cover is necessary for off-road biking enthusiasts who enjoy long-distance biking adventures away from their residences. Generally, most bike insurance companies state the scope of coverage to be outside a 100-kilometre radius from the place of residence stated in the policy papers.

Can you buy specific bike insurance for your dirt biking adventures?

If you are a beginner to the sport, you may think of purchasing the above-stated add-on covers as a hassle and wonder why not buy an all-inclusive dirt biking insurance policy to protect your bike. Whether you intend to use a regular motorcycle for adventure sports or own a dirt bike, most insurance companies in India do not offer specific off-roading bike insurance. However, you may get comprehensive bike insurance that provides extensive coverage for your bike.

As the activity gains popularity, we expect the Indian insurance industry to adapt to the changing demand and provide suitable security cover for adventure activity. Until then, if you wish to take on the thrilling activity, we urge you to purchase the requisite add-on covers to make your bike insurance policy's coverage comprehensive for your needs.

Click HERE to buy bike 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.

Brain power is directly affected by several nutritional factors that enrich our body through the food we eat. Proper nutrition intake helps to boost our cognitive well-being. Our brain constitutes merely 2% of our body weight but consumes almost 20% of the overall energy utilisation. Hence, it is always searching for nutrition, and it becomes our duty to fulfill this need.

Is there any particular nutrient that can boost your brain power? You will be surprised to know that magnesium plays a significant role. Let us know more about it in detail.

*Note
It is crucial to invest in the best health insurance policy in India to avoid venting your pockets while dealing with treatments or medical emergencies.

1. Energy production
Magnesium produces unimpaired energy required by mitochondria, the powerhouse of cells. Magnesium also enhances the activities of the essential enzymes useful in energy production.

If energy production is not optimal, our brains may not function properly. There can be a negative impact on its cognitive powers. Hence, magnesium is essential in our body to facilitate energy production and boost our brain power.

2. Neuronal processes
Other than energy production, magnesium is important for neuronal processes too. It regulates neuro-transmitting signals in the brain. It is the key to the prime neurotransmitters- GABA and glutamate.

Magnesium also helps to maintain sufficient calcium content in the brain cells and regulates the activity of calcium channels. High magnesium levels in the brain can help enhance your memory and learning power. Also, it strengthens the process of synaptic plasticity, which can delay cognitive decline due to ageing.

An increase in magnesium levels in the brain may also increase the pace of neural stem cells production. It can promote neurogenesis in adulthood and improve the brain's adaptability to changing external environments, mood regulation, and cognitive flexibility. Magnesium can also help to maintain proper blood flow to your brain by helping to control oxidative stress and inflammation.

3. Brain decline
Various studies have proven that low magnesium levels can result in a decline in the brain's performance. People who have Alzheimer's disease come up with low levels of magnesium in their cerebrospinal fluid. Studies also show that people using magnesium oxide are less at risk of developing dementia.

Research also shows that magnesium plays a significant role in healing traumatic brain injuries. People treated with magnesium sulphate showed a favourable outcome and recovery within 12 hours. Studies have also proven that magnesium affects the functioning and health of a normal brain.

4. Magnesium-rich foods
Now you must be clear about the power of magnesium in boosting your brain power. But what are the foods that are rich in magnesium? Here's a complete list.

Dark chocolate, spinach, avocado, pumpkin seed, bananas, cashews, leafy green vegetables, whole grain, legumes, almonds, brown rice, black beans, yogurt, fish, and sunflower seed are some foods that are a rich source of magnesium.

Magnesium helps to boost your brain power and cognitive well-being. Increase your intake by consuming more food rich in magnesium. Magnesium is also important for several enzyme reactions impacting your bones, blood sugar, and nerves.

In addition to taking a magnesium-rich diet, you must buy the best health insurance policy in India that can protect you from unplanned financial burdens. Your health can deteriorate anytime, and you may require surgery. Health insurance will cover you in such instances. Do proper online and offline research and opt for the best health insurance policy in India that provides good coverage at the most reasonable premiums.

Click HERE to buy the best health insurance policy in 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.

Motor insurance is a boon that provides vehicle owners security against the financial burden of mishaps that occur to their cars. While it offers several inclusions, acts classified as contributory negligence do not fall under the policy's scope of coverage.

One such act is misfuelling your vehicle, which unfortunately happens frequently. If you find yourself in such a situation, here's all you need to know.

Case 1: Potential dangers of petrol in a diesel car.
Gasoline in a diesel car is a solvent for low lubrication and could damage the fuel pump. Metal pieces from the broken pumps could cause more problems with the fuel delivery system.

What to do: Avoid turning the key and igniting the engine.
The tank must be emptied, with all tainted fuel removed and replaced with a new charge. You can only turn it on after that.

Case 2: Threats of diesel in a petrol car.
Because the diameter of the diesel fuel filler cannon is often larger than the slot of petrol cars, refuelling a petrol car with diesel fuel is uncommon. However, in such situations, the engine doesn't start, and the exhaust severely smokes while running.
The spark produced by spark plugs is what drives a petrol-powered car. Diesel can clog the candles and the fuel system when you fill it up and start the vehicle. It can lead to misfires, smoke, and possibly even a motor failure.

What to do: Don't turn on the ignition and refuel the tank.
Use a specialised additive that clears diesel traces from the fuel system if you fill the petrol tank with diesel in any amount. Furthermore, it matters how much diesel has dispersed throughout the car's internal components after entering the gasoline tank.
It is advised to do a complete tank drain and then fill the entire tank with gasoline. If less than 2 litres have been added, there will be no issues. Obtain assistance from a professional who can remove and clean the gasoline tank if the diesel content exceeds 5% of the tank capacity. Once completed, you can start the car and drive it further.

If your car is already running.
It is advised to drain the fuel tank and refill the fuel system with fresh gasoline before starting the car. If you're driving when you realise, stop as soon as possible. To eliminate the contaminated fuel, it is imperative to flush the tank. Replacement of the gasoline filter is essential in each scenario.

How can the risk be reduced?
No one purposefully fills their tank with the wrong fuel, yet many individuals do so even though the filler size varies for the two fuel types. The type of fuel used on each car is noted, typically on the tank cap and the filler cap as well. Before beginning to refuel, always double-check the type of fuel!

The repair cost may increase depending on how much-contaminated fuel is in the fuel system. You should always be careful to avoid such incidents, and if it does, you could incur significant repair costs.

One of your most valuable possessions, your car, needs to be protected because repairs are expensive. The best way to protect yourself is to purchase motor insurance, which offers several advantages that can increase your safety and safeguards your finances in the case of an accident.

Click HERE to buy motor 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.

Commuting by bike is a routine affair for millions of Indians around the length and breadth of the country. If you are a daily commuter and have to go through crowded, traffic-filled small lanes in India, a bike can be the best form of transportation.

Bikes can be great fun, even for long rides. However, the long journey can be tiring and cause body aches. Aches can spoil your remaining adventure and may dampen your high spirits about bike travel.

You can ensure thrilling long rides without any aches by following these tips.

1. Exercise
Long rides can cause severe backaches. Riding a bike puts extensive pressure on the core muscles because they bear your body weight. You need to strengthen your midsection and ensure that your spine stays strong. Several exercises strengthen your back, but you need to do them regularly, not just for a few days. There are some yoga asanas, too, that can help to strengthen your spine. Exercising will help preserve your core muscle strength and ensure your spine does not suffer undue pressure. It will benefit you immensely and prevent long-term health problems as well.

2. Correct posture
Incorrect posture while riding your bike can result in back pain, which even regular exercising cannot help. You should maintain a straight back during long bike rides. Line up your shoulders above your waist, and never sit in a hunching position. Most riders ignore their sitting posture and end up with back pain during long rides. Also, do not put extra weight on your back, such as a heavy backpack. Undue weight can also spoil your posture and cause back ache.

3. Rest occasionally
You must occasionally take a rest during a long ride on your bike. Continuously riding your bike without stopping can cause chronic injury. Stop frequently and get down from your bike. Try simple stretching exercises such as arching your back forward and backward, twisting your shoulders and arms, and leaning in front to touch the toes. It will relax your body and freshen your mind and spirit.

4. Give your hands a break too
The incorrect gripping style of the bike handle can result in hand aches. Your wrists should have about 10-15 degrees back-bend on the handle. Some bikes have very low handles, which can cause discomfort and pain, especially during long rides. You can always get your handle position adjusted by a mechanic if you feel it is too high or too low before commencing the long ride.

5. Good seat cushioning
Company-fitted bike seats may not have adequate cushioning. This can cause discomfort and backache during long bike rides. Get a good seat cover for your bike that has proper cushioning. You can get it customized and choose the cushioning level as per your choice and comfort.

Many bike enthusiasts love taking their bikes on long rides for a thrilling experience. Following the above tips will ensure that you truly enjoy your long ride without aches and discomfort during your journey.

A good 2 wheeler insurance policy is as critical for any rider as it ensures a comfortable long ride. It will provide you with financial coverage for an accident or damage. The insurance company will reimburse you for your bike’s current value if stolen. Moreover, having valid 2 wheeler insurance while riding your motorcycle is legally compulsory. So what are you waiting for? Go get your 2 wheeler insurance policy immediately!

Click HERE to buy a 2 wheeler insurance policy in just a few clicks.

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.

Bike insurance is essential for every motorcycle owner to protect themselves from financial losses because of unfortunate events such as theft, damage, or accidents. Most people purchase bike insurance online as it saves time and offers them various options to compare and choose from. However, sometimes people encounter situations where they should consider cancelling their bike insurance to save unnecessary payments.

If you are selling your bike, moving abroad with your bike, or your bike is no longer in use, you can save unnecessary premiums just by cancelling your insurance policy.

By understanding these situations, bike owners can make informed decisions about cancelling their bike insurance policy when necessary. Without further ado, let's discuss these situations in detail.

1. Selling your bike
If you have sold your bike, you do not need to keep the insurance policy active. In such a scenario, you should cancel your bike insurance policy to avoid paying unnecessary premiums. You can easily cancel your bike insurance online by contacting your insurance provider.

2. Moving abroad
You must buy bike insurance in that country when moving abroad along with the bike. In such a situation, cancelling your existing bike insurance policy is advisable to save you from paying unnecessary premiums. Contact your insurance provider to cancel your policy, and they will guide you through the process.

3. The bike is no longer in use
You do not need to pay for bike insurance if your bike is no longer used. For instance, if you have switched to public transport or a car, you should cancel your bike insurance policy to save money.

The other probable reasons when you can cancel your bike insurance are;

● Not satisfied with the policy
If you are dissatisfied with your current bike insurance policy and have found a better one with more benefits and a lower premium, you can consider cancelling your existing policy. However, before cancelling, you should read the terms and conditions of your current policy to understand if there are any cancellation charges or penalties.

● High premium
If you are finding it difficult to pay the high premium of your bike insurance policy, consider cancelling it. However, before cancelling, you should compare policies from different insurance providers to find one that suits your budget.

● Reckless driving
Your insurance provider may cancel your policy if you have a history of reckless driving and have been involved in multiple accidents. In such a scenario, it is advisable to surrender your bike insurance policy and look for a new policy that suits your needs.

Bike insurance is a crucial aspect of bike ownership as it provides financial protection against any unforeseen events. However, there are certain situations where cancelling your bike insurance policy is the right decision. It is essential to remember that before cancelling your policy, you should read the terms and conditions of your policy to understand if there are any cancellation charges or penalties. By cancelling your bike insurance policy when necessary, you can save money and ensure you buy the right bike insurance online to fully meet your needs from the comfort of your home.

Click HERE to learn more about the benefits of purchasing bike 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.