GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

India's economy is heavily dependent on the transport of various goods. As the world's second-most populous country and one of the fastest-growing economies, different food and industrial needs can be met only with effective and constant transport operations. Supplying goods for a population as vast as over 130 crore people isn't easy, and various modes of transport are used to meet the demand and supply requirements of the nation. Be it the well-connected train routes or the extensive trucking system, transportation is pivotal for the country.

And while the train pilots are heavily compensated and well paid, the trucking community is often neglected. With minimal pay, over the top work hours and extended working conditions, truck pilots face a lot of trouble.

Today, we highlight the most prevalent trucking violations in India.

1. Sleepless nights:
Truck drivers are constantly working for 12 hours at a stretch. Sometimes this goes on for days non-stop. Covering long distances within a given time can be challenging for the drivers. And sleepless nights and bare minimum food can add to the fatigue.
Research showed that almost 53 per cent of the current driving force face various psychological and physical issues, including but not limited to insomnia, obesity, joint pain, poor vision etc.

2. Extended work hours:
Since most truckers come from low-income groups, they are always looking for ways to work extra hours. This leads to added fatigue and exhaustion.
There have been instances when drivers have unknowingly knocked vehicles from the road and crushed the pedestrians. While there is no mandate stating the number of permissible work hours in India, it is illegal to drive for more than 10 hours at a stretch in most countries.

3. Overloading:
About 10 percent of total accidents are caused by overloading. These accidents can be caused due to various reasons such as tyre burst, loss of balance, manoeuvring the speed on an incline, worn out brakes etc. The weight of the truck changes if it's overloaded, which impacts the centre of gravity, making it challenging to handle the vehicle.

4. Poor health care:
Trucking services neglect the need to provide basic insurance to truckers and co-pilots. The truckers often turn to home remedies and generic medicines in case of injury. In most cases, they cannot afford the treatment as they prioritise reaching the destination on time. As a result, severe back pain and loss of vision have become some of the most common health issues amongst truckers.

Truckers are one of the most villainous communities on the road. However, we need to understand that they are put through extremely hostile work conditions. Providing sufficient health care and funds to truckers should be made mandatory. Limiting the working hours, maintaining a logbook and providing good resting conditions for the drivers can bring a considerable change to the trucking business in the country.

Sometimes, the truckers are responsible for bearing the cost of repairs on the truck while on the road. Burdening the drivers with such extra expense can be avoided by investing in comprehensive online motor insurance and selecting the plans that provide the best benefits. Various NGOs and individual transport companies can look for multiple covers, including health insurance, public accident insurance and motor insurance for the drivers.

Click HERE to know more about buying online 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.

Several car owners consider their vehicle to be an expression of themselves. Car enthusiasts may pick aesthetic modifications for their beloved vehicle in the same way a person chooses particular outfits to showcase the style quotient.

Remember, having automobile protection accessories may help prevent any slight or significant wear and tear that occurs over time. Such accessories will undoubtedly keep your vehicle spotless, increase its longevity, and add value to your car.

However, you must strike the correct balance between aesthetic and practical modifications so that your vehicle stands out in terms of both elegance and convenience. Here are several useful and practical extensions to enhance your vehicle's overall quality.

1. Additional fog lamps:
When the primary headlights fail, the extra fog lights turn on. These are primarily helpful if the battery is dead and no other power source is available. They also use the braking system to minimise acceleration in certain circumstances, leading to a lower speed when the vehicle meets an obstacle and preventing it from veering off the road.

2. Side moulding on the body:
This is an excellent option for vehicle owners who wish to armour their cars and protect them from knocks and dents on the road. The resilient material is elastic enough to absorb the impact of slamming car doors against your side. When buying a body side moulding, you can pick from various designs and colour choices to enhance the appearance of your car's exterior.

3. Tyre-pressure monitor:
Some individuals are picky about certain aspects, while others are not. A tyre pressure monitor set could interest you if you fall into the first group. Your car's tyres should always be in perfect condition, and this device guarantees that they have the correct pressure for travel. If there is a deviation, the monitor will notify you to remedy the problem.

4. Grill protectors:
A strong grill shield protects the front of the car from severe damage caused by pebbles, tall grass, and anything that it may kick up. It can also secure the driver and passengers in minor accidents or collisions with other vehicles or wildlife.

5. Jump starters:
A jump starter may serve as a backup power source when your four-wheeler's battery fails. If you like taking long road trips, it is advisable to have a jump starter tool kit in your car. This equipment becomes even more important when driving on frigid terrains or secluded locations.

6. Hydraulic jack:
Always keep a hydraulic jack handy in your vehicle. This mechanical tool can be of great help when you need to change the tyre in case of a puncture. A hydraulic jack can reduce the mechanical effort involved in tilting or lifting the vehicle.

You can select from a plethora of accessory packages and accessible alternatives to further safeguard your four-wheeler. However, before purchasing protective gear, examine how you will operate them for the best benefit of your car's safety and needs.

Aside from protective extras such as tyre pressure monitoring, keyless locking, and additional bumpers, protecting your car with motor insurance is an investment that will surely pay off in the long term. It will provide you with a hassle-free car experience without jeopardising your safety. Therefore, look for the best motor insurance company in India to protect your car, yourself and other drivers on the road.

Click HERE to connect with the best motor insurance company 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.

Fishing is an easy sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Many people like to camp near fishing sites and spend time with family and friends. The excitement of holding the rods and attempting to catch a fish and cook it into a delectable dish is a joyful experience.

While fishing is a simple sport, newcomers interested in trying their hand at it might find it difficult to get started. Catching the first fish is a memory to cherish throughout your life, and this blog will help you accomplish that.

Let's discuss the six best tips for newcomers to get started with fishing easily.

1. Research:
It would be best to do some research before heading straight to the pond with your fishing rod. Get a general idea about fishing. Read some books on the basics of fishing to understand the process. You may even watch a few tutorials online to clear the fundamentals of preparing the rod, using the bait, and understanding the techniques involved.

2. Basics:
After you are done with your research and are familiar with the terms and equipment used in fishing, you can get started by understanding the basics and pre-fishing tasks. For example- you can learn how to put baits on the hook, tie knots, etc.

3. Bait:
You need to know about the various types of baits that attract different fish. For example, raw chicken liver attracts catfish. Adding the wrong bait can make it difficult to catch a fish. So acquaint yourself with the proper knowledge about different types of fish and the tricks used to catch them.

4. Location and weather:
Be mindful while choosing a location for your fishing trip. Look up the site on the internet and learn more about the water bodies and the types of fish that might be available (if any). A cloudy sky is considered to be the best weather for fishing. You can also catch fish in other weather conditions, but an overcast sky speaks magic comparatively. If you are not aware of the proper conditions for fishing, it could be a disappointing experience not to find anything to catch.

5. Apparel:
You need to dress for the occasion. In the case of fishing, wear boots since there is a slight chance that you might have to (or by accident) paddle into the water while catching a fish. Dressing according to the weather would make the fishing experience better for you. Wear layers if it is cloudy and chilly. Tie your long hair into a ponytail to avoid getting distracted.

6. Bug spray:
Make sure that you carry bug spray. The places around these water bodies tend to have a lot of bugs and insects (mainly mosquitoes), which might cause trouble while fishing and can get you sick if you are not careful. Using an itch-free bug spray is advisable for a comfortable fishing experience.

That's a wrap on the six best tips for newcomers in fishing. You have to be quiet around the edge of the water bodies to catch fish efficiently. Even a slight mistake can be risky and may land you into unwanted trouble. So, get the best personal accident insurance India to protect yourself against any unfortunate incidents and make your fishing experience a memorable one.

Click HERE to know more about how you can buy the best 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.

As we get older, our body becomes subject to more wear and tear. Several adults develop comorbidities and illnesses as they hit the milestone of 50. At this stage, getting medical tests and screenings is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and habits.

While maintaining overall wellness is important at any age, adults are more prone to discovering their underlying health issues at this age. This is when it becomes imperative to get well-rounded annual health checkups to ascertain any medical worries and improve their quality of life.

Unfortunately, along with a sense of wisdom, getting older also brings a list of health complications. While investing in health insurance in India can secure your parents' medical worries, conducting annual health checkups is paramount.

Benefits of annual health checkups for adults above 50.

1. Discover health issues early on:
Getting health checkups involves various scans and blood tests. There are several things you can learn from these tests. When shown to your physician, they can point out any deficiencies and more extensive problems that your tests may reflect. Knowing about these health problems as soon as possible is key to controlling and managing them effectively. You may not be suffering from any symptoms early on. However, it's better to learn about these issues by running tests before matters get out of hand.

2. Know about a disease you're at risk for:
Your tests can also help your doctors find any problems leading to more severe diseases or illnesses in the future. Knowing your family's health history and comparing it with your own can help draw parallels and understand what condition to prepare for.

3. Manage chronic diseases effectively:
With every annual checkup, you can learn how many changes your body goes through. You can also know when you may develop long-term comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, thyroid, asthma, arthritis, etc., that need hands-on treatment.

4. Save time, effort, and money:
Precaution is always better than cure. Regular checkups can help you prevent illnesses and save you from dealing with severe symptoms later on. Even though you may have secured the retirement life of your parents by investing in health insurance in India for parents, it is always better to know about the upcoming challenges you need to cope with. This saves the amount of time, effort, and money that needs to be spent controlling the health complications that get worse with time.

5. Make better lifestyle choices:
Health issues do not arise simply due to hereditary or genetic makeup. They can also occur due to unhealthy and toxic lifestyle choices. A regular habit of indulging in unhealthy food, liquor, and other narcotics can adversely affect your health.

Unhealthy habits like smoking can cause respiratory and blood toxicity. Getting annual health checkups can help you understand what physical issues these unhealthy habits are causing and how to fix them.

To sum it up, adults need to understand the importance of getting annual health checkups once they turn 50. Ignoring your health will only lead to more problems in the future. Encourage the elders in the family to get yearly checkups on time to avoid undue stress and health concerns. Remember to consider health insurance in India for parents to cover the medical needs of your parents and loved ones.

Click HERE to buy the best health insurance in India for parents.

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.

Having two-wheeler insurance helps you during unprecedented financial situations such as accidents, natural disasters, theft etc. A comprehensive plan covers the damages and repairs you might require in the future for your vehicle.

Over time, with new insurers coming to market and new insurance plans taking centre stage, we find ourselves wanting to make a switch. You might be tempted to change your insurance provider or simply want an upgrade.

This article will help you better understand things you need to look out for before changing your two-wheeler insurance.

1. Sometimes, due to a lack of attentiveness from your previous insurance provider, you might want to make a switch. You can look up the renewal process of the 2 wheeler insurance online. Insurance companies provide a hassle-free renewal process.

2. Instead of switching your insurance provider, you can simply upgrade your plans. At the time of renewal, ask your insurance provider to brief you on all the best and updated insurance plans. You can also check online and find the kind of upgrades the company provides.

3. If you need to switch services during your current policy, you can conveniently do that. First, you will have to close your existing policy. Most insurers will refund you with a few deductions. The switching process is generally hassle-free. You are required to submit documents to cancel your old one once the new insurance provider has given you cover.

4. If cost is the primary reason for you to switch, you should first compare the 2 wheeler insurance available online. Sometimes an insurance company may provide you with more cover for a few extra hundred bucks. If that’s the case, you might want to stick with your existing provider.

5. Look into factors like customer service, efficiency, claim settlement ratios etc. This gives you a better understanding of the company and their market ratings. This plays a massive role in choosing the best insurance provider for you.

6. The following documents are to be kept handy in case of a change of insurance provider:

• Identity Proof

• Address Proof

• Registration certificate

• The previous insurance policy document

• Passport size photo

7. While making the switch, don’t forget to look into the add-ons that the new policy provides. Add-ons such as roadside assistance, engine cover, etc., might increase the premium of your insurance, but it also assures prompt and easy service.

This is a comprehensive list of things you should keep in mind while changing your insurance plans. Remember that the insurance providers are there to help. Asking the right questions and understanding all the services your insurance provider is willing to provide can go a long way. With easy access to technology, you can go onto the internet, analyse various options, and choose the 2 wheeler insurance online that suits you the best.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you need to make these decisions before renewing your policy. Since riding a vehicle with no insurance is a punishable offence. Hence researching beforehand should be your priority.

Click HERE to take a look at 2 wheeler 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.

Natural gas is commonly used at homes for cooking and heating purposes. It is a fantastic fuel and is highly convenient for domestic purposes. However, since the gas is combustible, a leakage in large amounts can cause suffocation and death.

As natural gas is colourless and odour-free, it is always difficult to find any gas leak signs in your home. Also, remember that it might not have physical indications or smells. So, how can you identify natural gas leaks? Let's look at everything you need to know.

Detectors for Natural Gas leaks.

1. Propane & Natural Gas Detector:
The goal of these sensors is to notify about grills or stoves being switched on. Many homes use sensors to detect whether the youngsters in the family are tampering with the grill or stove. These sensors come in both connected and wireless forms. If you have a hardwired sensor, you can use a wireless transmitter to connect to it.

2. Carbon Monoxide Detector:
When these detectors sense a particular level of carbon monoxide in the air, they go off and sound an alert. It has a combination of different sensors that help it function, such as

• A biomimetic sensor changes colour as it absorbs carbon monoxide, and this colour shift activates the alert.

• The silica chip's circuitry system detects carbon monoxide, which reduces the electrical resistance and causes the alarm to sound.

• If the electrodes in a chemical solution present in the detector come into touch with carbon monoxide, they detect variations in electrical currents, triggering the alarm.

Traditional ways to detect a gas leak.

1. The smell of a rotten egg or sulfur:
Natural gas and propane have unique odours for a particular reason. Gas processing companies employ mercaptan as a safety additive because it gives the colourless and odourless gas a distinct odour. Most people associate this odour with rotting eggs or sulfur. So if you smell anything of such nature, investigate for a gas leak.

2. Dead vegetation:
Although you can't see the gas pipelines beneath the soil, a visible patch of dead vegetation can signify a leaky gas pipeline underneath.

3. Hissing sound:
You may hear a mild hissing sound coming from your gas line if there is a leak. This is a solid sign to get the line diagnosed immediately.

4. The bubble test:
Combine a teaspoon of detergent with a cup of water. Apply this solution to the area you believe is leaking and watch for bubbles to form. This signifies that gas is leaking from that location.

The possibility of a gas leak can be frightening, but understanding how to recognise danger and what precautions to take can help you relax. When it comes to gas leak detection, using the methods outlined above can assist you in determining whether your family and house are in danger.

One more step in maximising safety is to get insurance for you, the loved ones and your valuable assets. Browse through different plans of general insurance companies in India and analyse your requirements. Buy the plan that meets all your needs and safeguard your home against these risks.

Click HERE to explore insurance plans from one of the best general insurance companies 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.

People with insomnia do not get enough sleep, and most of the days do not wake up feeling refreshed. The cause of sleep deprivation varies among individuals. Sleep deprivation is associated with various issues like weariness, difficulties focusing, mood fluctuations, and poor job performance. However, most cases of insomnia are caused by stress, an unpleasant experience, or abnormalities in the sleep cycle. Severe insomnia can only be cured via treatment. However, short-term insomnia is manageable.

If you have trouble falling asleep after retiring for the day, no matter how weary you are, here are some home cures you may try.

1. Yoga:
Yoga is considered a proven method to improve sleep quality and boost mental well-being. It also helps reduce stress, enhance physical performance, and increase concentration.
Remember to choose a style that emphasises moving meditation or breath work over strenuous physical motions. Slow, controlled motions help you to maintain your attention and concentration. Practicing the poses before going to bed might help you relax and unwind.

2. Meditation with awareness:
Mindfulness has been shown to improve well-being by lowering stress, building tolerance, enhancing good mood, and even strengthening immunity. It also has a positive influence on one’s sleep quality and schedule.
There are many free and commercial mindfulness videos, applications, and podcasts accessible online. People who want to experience mindfulness may decide to take a class, join a local weekly workshop, or visit a retreat.

3. Magnesium:
The magnesium generally produced in our bodies also aids in promoting a balanced sleep-wake cycle. Taking a daily magnesium supplement may help patients sleep better and for more extended periods. Consuming magnesium-rich meals, particularly in the evening, may aid in inducing better sleeping patterns.

4. Lavender oil:
For years and years, people have used this essential oil as a natural medicine to enhance sleep and produce feelings of relaxation. Lavender oil may be used as a pillow spray, patch, massage oil, or aromatic diffuser to help sleep. Lavender promotes sleep onset, healthy sleeping habits, and sleep patterns.

5. Practice sleep hygiene:

In its most basic form, sleep hygiene outlines a person’s nighttime habits and activities.

Individuals may improve their sleep hygiene by doing the following:

● Avoid computers, laptops, mobile phones, and televisions at least an hour before night

● Making the bedroom dark with muted lights, thick drapes, and blinds, or wearing earplugs and eye masks

● Avoid liquor, tobacco, and caffeinated drinks in the evening

● Maintaining a regular bedtime pattern that involves sleeping at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning

● Abstaining from eating large meals for dinner

● Take a hot shower or bath before going to bed

As per the studies carried out, insomnia is a frequent disorder with up to one-third of individuals suffering from it at some age. There are numerous cures and practices that a person who has insomnia might attempt to enhance their sleep. However, these home remedies will only work for people with minor insomnia.

We recommend consulting with a doctor for anyone going through chronic insomnia. Also, almost every health insurance covers the medical treatment for this disorder. Remember to get your health insurance policy renewal on time to avoid the last-minute hassle and avoid the lapsing of your current plan.

Click HERE to get a health insurance policy 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.

We have all heard the famous proverb, "a sound mind lives in a sound body". Both are integral parts that should be taken care of to lead a healthy life. In this blog, we will discuss some methods to sharpen your brain and polish your cognitive skills.

You can call your brain the control centre of your system since it processes all you see, hear, touch and think. Your brain perceives different sensations, sounds, images, etc., and conveys the signal to your whole body, signalling it to respond accordingly. Incredibly, this process happens within a matter of seconds.

It is crucial to take extra care of your brain's health and mental wellbeing. Dietary and lifestyle changes help combat cognitive-related issues such as mental health problems, anxiety and depression and help in enhancing creativity.

Here's how you can sharpen your cognitive abilities.

1. Relieve stress:
Develop a habit of taking walks daily and breathing in the fresh air. Other relaxing activities can include getting a massage, reading, meditation, etc. These activities help release the tension and stress from your body and lower your cortisol levels which tend to affect the memory sections of your brain.

2. Sleep well:
Sleeping at least eight hours a day is crucial to maintaining a sound mind. Quality sleep helps your mind commit things to memory and improve your brain's retention capacity.

3. Play:
Include games like crossword, sudoku, and puzzles in your daily schedule. These games intensify the usage of brain functions, thus helping in improving your reasoning and retention abilities.

4. Doodling:
Recent research has proven that doodling and colouring activate your brain's reasoning and problem-solving region. These activities enhance the blood supply to the prefrontal cortex and strengthen your mind's analytical and attention capabilities.

5. Dark chocolate:
Dark chocolate has been proven good for your physical and mental health. Studies have found that it contains flavanol, a substance that boosts your brain's memory retention, functioning, and processing abilities.

6. Reduce sugar consumption:
Consumption of carbohydrates and a sugar-rich diet can slow down your brain as your body takes time and energy to break down these substances. Consuming too much sugar also leads to depression and heart diseases, thus risking your physical and mental health.

7. Exercise:
Research has shown that lifting weights help in improving cognitive abilities. People who lift weights tend to increase their spatial memory. It helps in memorising the environments one is in at any given moment. Spatial memory enables you to remember layouts of a room or how you arrange things in your space. People who achieve their physical goals by walking strengthen their verbal memory.

These are some techniques that can help improve your cognitive skills. Apart from the above tips, you may even practise mindfulness by indulging yourself in daily yoga and meditation sessions. Yoga and meditation These healthy practices can keep your brain active and impact your productivity.

A wise option would be to protect your and your loved ones' health against unprecedented circumstances. To stay monetarily stress-free in health emergencies, explore multiple options and purchase the best health insurance policy in India.

Click HERE to know more about how you can 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.