GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Most people are familiar with motor insurance, its benefits, and its exclusions. It is an efficient financial instrument that supports us when our insured vehicle encounters an unfortunate incident. Motor insurance comes with many optional coverages that may be useful to you. Did you know about the Return to Invoice or RTI coverage? Choosing this coverage while you buy motor insurance online can be a great help. Let's learn more about RTI coverage, its benefits, and its functionality.

What is "Return to Invoice" in motor insurance?

Return to invoice is an optional coverage for your car insurance. It lets you get money equal to the car's original value, also called the invoice value. This coverage is not required by law, so you can buy motor insurance online and include RTI coverage as an add-on. It is an application you use when your car faces total loss, such as if someone steals it or it gets fully damaged by fire or a natural calamity.

How does it work?
In normal car insurance coverage without an RTI add-on, you can get the maximum claim amount as your car's "insured declared value" (IDV). IDV is always less than the invoice value of the car.
However, with car insurance having RTI coverage, you can get the maximum amount of claim on the invoice value of your car. In simple words, when you have RTI coverage in your car insurance, you can get the road value of your car when it is stolen.

How is it calculated?
You can easily determine the amount of insurance that comes with RTI by looking at the car's total price when you buy it. The return to invoice includes the total car price, such as road tax paid, ex-showroom price, and registration cost.

What is covered in Return to Invoice?
If your car gets stolen or damaged beyond repair, you can raise a claim against the RTI. Let's look at the different circumstances when this coverage can benefit you:

● When you don't have secured parking

● Living in an area where car thefts are common

● Living in an area prone to natural calamities such as floods, landslides, and more

What does not apply in the Return to Invoice?

Sometimes, the RTI cover may not work, and you can't claim the insured amount. Here are some situations when this cover is not applicable, including:

● Damage to your car when someone else is driving

● You can't avail RTI add-on if your car is older than 3 years from the buying time

● You can't avail of the RTI cover for minor dents and grazing on the car body

● You must submit a copy of the FIR to process the return-to-invoice claim

Benefits of Return to Invoice in motor insurance.

Some benefits of RTI in car insurance include:

● It increases the scope of your car insurance coverage

● It is beneficial when you live in an area where car thefts are common

● It is available for new cars. Hence, you can give your new car more care with this cover

● It is available with a comprehensive car insurance policy

Once you understand everything about the Return to Invoice, consider adding this optional cover. RTI can help you when your car is damaged beyond repair. If you live or park your car in a place where theft, natural calamity, or fire is common, you should add RTI to your policy when you buy motor insurance online.

Click HERE to buy motor 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.

A cashless garage facility is one in which an insurance company has a tie-up with a garage. Whenever you meet with an accident or file an insurance claim for repairs, you will not have to settle the bill in cash at these garages. The insurance company will directly pay the bill. However, you have to bear some nominal charges for processing the claim. Also, some compulsory deductibles exist as per the insurance policy’s terms and conditions.

Not all garages will have a tie-up with your respective insurance company. The list of network garages is easily available with your insurance company. You need to verify it with your insurance provider and search for the nearest garage that will provide you with a cashless facility. Let us see how a cashless garage facility can be helpful to us.

1. Hassle-free claim settlement:
Insurance companies are directly connected to the network garages. Hence, you do not need to visit multiple garages to complete the repair work. You can directly go to the network garage after informing the insurance company, provide the required documents, and that’s it! The garage will take it over, and the insurance company will settle the bill. The entire claim settlement process becomes hassle-free.

2. Prompt service:
As mentioned above, not all garages are covered in the cashless network list of the insurance company. Hence, listed garages provide prompt and good quality repairs and renewal services to maintain harmonious relations with the insurance company. This can be helpful to you, and you’ll get quick service and timely delivery of your vehicle.

3. No cash payout:
This is one of the most important benefits of a cashless garage facility. In the non-listed garage, you have to settle the entire bill in cash at the time of delivery of the car. Accidents do not come informed. Hence, such sudden bills can put you under a financial burden. The repair costs of modern-day cars are hefty and can cost several thousands of rupees in one go.
A cashless garage facility will release this financial burden from you, and you’ll not have to pay any repair costs from your pocket. Minor documentation and deductibles charges can be easily met. This facility makes the claim settlement process swift, and you do not have to worry about footing the repair bill.

4. Transparent billing and quality service:
The insurance company and its surveyors are in constant touch with the network garage. They provide a big chunk of work to the garage regularly. Hence, the network garages abstain from committing any fraud, using sub-standard components and parts, or engaging in over-billing while repairing cars. Hence, we are assured of fair and transparent billing and top-notch service.

A cashless garage facility is a blessing for all vehicle owners. It makes the claim settlement process convenient, hassle-free, and fast. Also, it relieves us from paying sudden and heavy repairs and renewal charges when our car meets with an accident. We get quality work at reasonable prices.

But first, you need to have a valid and functional motor insurance policy for your vehicle to enjoy a cashless garage facility for it. Always renew your insurance policy on time and never let it expire because accidents do not announce before occurring. Opt for online motor insurance renewal, which makes the renewal process effortless. You can do it from the comfort of your office or home, at any time of day or night. Also, you are saved from the hassle of meeting with the insurance agent or going to the insurance office for renewal. Go the modern way; choose online motor insurance renewal.

Click HERE for hassle-free online motor insurance renewal.

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.

Rock climbing and rappelling offer some of the most thrilling encounters with nature and adventure. It's a hands-on journey that requires all of your focus. Although rappelling hasn't gained widespread popularity like paragliding or river rafting, it is gradually doing so. Many locations across the nation have established themselves as adventure centres with a dedicated focus on rappelling.

An unforgettable experience, scaling a steep rock is exciting and leaves a lasting impression. The adventure sport of rappelling is very taxing and requires mental and physical stamina. While you still have the chance, you must at least once experience it. Rappelling puts your resolve to the test of your limits.

Here is a list of the top rappelling spots in India.

1. The charming city of Rishikesh:
Rishikesh is not only a pilgrimage destination. Travellers from all over the world come to the "yoga capital" in huge numbers. Rishikesh, the paradise for all adventure activities and tours, has the perfect terrain for rappelling. The dotted hills, flora and fauna, rivers, and streams help adventure sports flourish here.

2. A haven for adventurers, Odisha:
Odisha is another retreat for adrenaline seekers. Lord Jagannath's native state is steadily establishing a reputation as a centre for adventure. If you are physically healthy and desire to use that stored energy well, consider rappelling in the Pandav Bakhara Caves and the Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary. Pushing your stamina to a real test is a wholesome experience in Odisha, where you can enjoy rappelling with a professional staff trained at the Indian Mountaineering Foundation.

3. A foggy affair in Himachal Pradesh:
Stand a chance to touch the clouds when you go rappelling in Himachal Pradesh or cherish the top-of-the-world feeling. There are several rocky hotspots where you can do adventure sports in this land of mountains. The pleasant weather and breathtaking views will double your excitement and promise you a wholesome experience. One of the most exciting waterfall rappelling adventures at Tirthan Valley has no parallel.

4. Rappelling down south with a mystic charm:
If hot adventure tours are what you're after, come down to the south. From Coorg to Dandeli, there are many thrilling and adventurous things to do. You can go to Karnataka to fully understand what it's like to conquer a cliff and absorb the breathtaking views. Enjoy your serenity amidst the wild and unbridled splendour of nature.

5. Maharashtra's penchant for adventure:
Maharashtra offers many options for a weekend break if you're seeking something discreet and unexplored. In Maharashtra, you can go trekking or even kiteboarding. The Sahyadri mountain range is the best playground for rappellers to enjoy their favourite sport. Some of the state's most well-known rappelling locations include the Kundalika Waterfalls in Kolad, the Ashoka Waterfalls in Kasara, Sandhan Valley, and the Kondana Caves in Karjat.

Everyone may have a different definition of adventure, however, the adrenaline and thrill that rappelling provides cannot be disputed. Climbing a steep rock is heart-thumping but risky at the same time. You can stay reasonably safe if you consistently practise good behaviours like double-checking knots and tying backups.

Being prepared for any situation and knowing what may go wrong will help you stay safe and avoid accidents. It would be wise to purchase personal accident insurance online (PA insurance), an annual policy that pays benefits in the event of injuries, disabling conditions, or fatalities entirely brought on by violent, accidental, external, and obvious events.

Click HERE to buy personal accident insurance online before planning your next rappelling trip.

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 the past decades, the emphasis on conventional methods of living has reduced with the monotonous nature of life. The desire to explore the unconventional and experiences that are out of the box has become the trend. While in the past, stability and ordinary lifestyles were chased after, it has been replaced by the desire to gain offbeat experiences.

One such changing trend is the demand for discreet and unusual travel experiences. Today, most travellers opt for unordinary travel itineraries focused on living in the present rather than run-of-the-mill standard tourist programs that showcase popular destinations.

As travel focuses on self-growth, the houseboat experience has seen a drastic increase in demand. Since India has ample water bodies, there are multiple places to experience this leisure activity that delivers a luxurious and rejuvenating feel.

However, since it is a unique activity, purchasing general insurance plans to protect your travel is ideal. Here are some of the best locations in India to experience living in houseboats.

1. Alleppey, Kerala:
Also known as God’s own country, the backwaters of Kerala are often discussed when talking about peaceful locations in India. With its lush greenery, dependence on fishing and allied activities and relaxed pace of life, Kerala is an ideal location for a stay in the houseboat. The local cuisine, pleasant weather and hospitable hosts make the experience unforgettable.

2. Sundarbans, West Bengal:
The Sundarbans are known to be the largest mangrove in the world. A houseboat stay in these mangroves is in stark contrast to the experience in any other location in India. This is the only region to showcase natural swampy habitats. Unlike others that focus on self-sustenance and peace amidst lush greenery, a houseboat stay in the Sundarbans is thrilling. A holiday on the houseboat is like a wildlife safari through the forest swamps. Since it is an unconventional travel experience, it is best to purchase general insurance plans in case of unforeseen mishaps during your travel.

3. Pondicherry:
The first thought that comes to mind at the mention of Pondicherry is the slow-paced life and quaint towns with picturesque architecture. Take a different route to explore the beauty of the location by opting for a houseboat and enjoying the impact of French and Tamilian culture in its architecture, people, and arts with scenic nature in the backdrop.

4. Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir:
It is unlikely to talk about houseboats without citing Kashmir. Most popular on the Dal Lake and the Nagin Lake, a houseboat stay in Kashmir is unique as the houseboats are anchored at a spot. However, they are the embodiment of luxury and peace.
The wooden structure has adequate supplies to provide warmth in contrast to the cold outside. Waking up to the magnificent view of the snow-covered mountains, clear sky, and cold weather is unparalleled. The floating market and restaurants are other exciting activities that you can enjoy.

5. Tarkarli, Maharashtra:
Located in the serene Konkan belt, this is the only location in Maharashtra where one can enjoy a houseboat stay. Tarkarli is known for its clean beaches and sees lesser footfall than famous beaches in Goa, making for a peaceful getaway. A houseboat stay can be coupled with adventure sports like scuba diving or visits to the long beaches to make the most of the trip.

With time, houseboat stays have become a favoured option for a brief vacation for much-needed peace to escape the hectic lifestyle. While it is an excellent retreat, it is essential to consider the risks associated with the activity and purchase adequate cover in the form of general insurance plans to cover the burden of accidents during your travel.

Click HERE to browse different general insurance plans.

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.