GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Insurance is an umbrella that protects you from the financial burden resulting in the aftermath of the event you are insured against. In recent times, the insurance penetration rate in India has significantly grown with the increasing base of new policyholders. This may be attributed to raising awareness, the increased purchasing power which has resulted in the improved ability to purchase policies, and the steadily growing inflation rates that increase the burden of such financial stress.

Over the years, motor insurance has become a popularised offering by insurance companies. If you are looking for the best two wheeler insurance in India, there are multiple options with various features and price ranges. However, it all boils down to the insurance claim settlement procedure. If the claim settlement is fair and speedy, it is the natural choice for consumers. It is also the most confusing part of insurance that you must consider before purchasing two-wheeler insurance.

How many times can you file a claim annually? What are the required documents? Read on to find the answers to questions similar to these related to two-wheeler insurance claims.

Can you file for a biannual two-wheeler insurance claim?

Yes! The paperwork does not restrict policyholders to specific maximum claims you can file annually. Therefore, you may apply for two or more claims in the same year.

Effect of raising multiple claims within the year.

While there are no restrictions on claim filing, it may not be a good idea to do so frequently for the reasons mentioned below:

1. No claim bonus:
This is an incentive provided by the insurer to the policyholder at the time of renewal in case no claim has been filed within the insured period. In case of multiple claims in the year, the discount rate, usually between 20-50%, is lost with each claim. Therefore, by making a claim, or multiple ones, the insured loses the benefit of a discount at the time of renewal.

2. Increased premiums:
Since the insured person files multiple claims, they are seen as a greater liability than an asset to the insurance company. Therefore, they charge a greater premium from the person when compared to other insured parties that file fewer or no claims at all.

3. Inadequate compensations:
In case of minor damages and losses, it may be best to avoid filing a claim. Deductible items are removed from the repairs bill to compute the allowed damages. If such an amount is minor, we recommend not filing a claim since the compensation will be inadequate and only result in the loss of the no-claim benefit.

4. Limitations on zero depreciation insurance add-on:
This is an add-on facility to a comprehensive two wheeler insurance policy that restricts the number of claims you may file.

Necessary documents to file a claim.

Irrespective of the result of your search for the best two wheeler insurance in India, most insurance companies ask for the following documents for filing a claim:

● Claim form

● Two-wheeler registration

● Tax receipt

● Owner’s driver’s licence

● Insurance proof

● Copy of FIR

With insurance companies striving to make claim filing simpler than before, it may seem logical to claim compensation for even the most minor damages. However, even with the best two wheeler insurance in India and requisite add-ons, that is not the case. You must purchase bike insurance and file claims only after careful consideration.

Click HERE to buy the best two wheeler insurance 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.

Standalone own-damage car insurance is optional, unlike third-party car insurance. However, you must buy your standalone damage car insurance since it will help you get coverage for damages to your car during an accident or a natural or man-made disaster like a fire outbreak, theft, flood, etc.

What is covered under standalone damage insurance?
By looking at what this policy covers, let's better understand how standalone car insurance functions. A typical own-damage policy will protect from the following:

● Accident-related damages or total loss

● Vehicle theft

● Damage that is beyond repair as a result of fire, lightning, explosion, or self-ignition

● Natural calamities such as landslides, earthquakes, or floods can cause damage

You can file a standalone damage car insurance claim with your car insurance provider if your vehicle is damaged as a result of one of these events. Nowadays, raising a standalone damage car insurance claim is simpler than ever before. You can visit the insurer's website, log in, complete a form, evaluate the damage to your automobile, and then make repairs after the claim is approved.

Factors that affect standalone car insurance premiums.

Your standalone car insurance premium can easily be impacted by a change in any of these variables.

1. Insured Declared Value:
Your car's IDV, or insured declared value, is its current market value and a key component in calculating its own-damage premium. If you decide to give your car a greater IDV, your standalone car insurance will be expensive.

2. Age of the vehicle:
Your vehicle depreciates with time and loses value. As a result, if your car is older, your car insurance premium will decrease.

3. Your location:
If you drive in an urban, congested area, such as a big city, your own-damage auto insurance rate will go up. This is because there is always a chance that the car will be stolen or damaged. The danger is also lower, and the premiums are lower in smaller towns and villages.

4. Car safety:
Installing safety features on your car reduces the possibility of damage. For instance, airbags reduce the likelihood of your vehicle sustaining damage, minimising car insurance premiums.

5. Model of the vehicle:
Any damage caused by an accident to a pricey or luxurious vehicle could be very costly. Due to the high risk associated with such a vehicle, the standalone insurance policy premium for own damage will also be expensive.

6. Engine cubic capacity:
Your car's engine cubic capacity significantly impacts your premiums. Compared to vehicles with engines under 1500cc, the damage premium for vehicles with an engine capacity beyond 1500cc will be higher.

7. No Claim Bonus:
When you renew the policy, your rates will be reduced if you haven't made any claims for auto-related damages during the policy year. As a result, avoiding these claims allows you to pay lesser premiums for your standalone own damage insurance.

Who should buy standalone damage insurance?
If you just have third-party auto insurance at the moment, it is advised that you purchase your standalone damage coverage. It increases the range of protection for your vehicle during emergencies like a car accident, a man-made disaster, or a natural disaster.

Here is the formula to calculate standalone damage car insurance premium:

You must know your car's Insured Declared Value (IDV). Using the formula below, you can easily determine your four-wheeler's IDV:
IDV= (showroom price - depreciation cost) + (cost of any car accessories - depreciation cost)

Once you know your car's IDV, you may use the following method to determine the cost of standalone own damage insurance:
Standalone Damage premium = IDV X (Premium Rate) + Add-on Covers - Policy Discounts and Benefits

Check for new car insurance rates before investing in standalone damage insurance. Contact your insurance provider to get the desired answers if you have any queries.

Click HERE to buy a car insurance policy.

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 ever randomly searched for road safety statistics relating to India, you would be concerned. According to data provided by many research firms, the road crash severity, i.e., the number of deaths per 100 road crashes, was 38.6. This implies that over a third of road accidents lead to fatalities. Our numbers are also the highest amongst all countries, making this an issue that requires immediate attention.

While infrastructure and planning of roads are partly to blame, so is driver negligence. Considering that over half the vehicles on roads are 2-wheelers, it becomes necessary to practise safe driving since 2-wheelers do not have the bare minimum safety that cars provide and lead to more significant damages if in an accident. With increased regulations, the demand for 2 wheeler insurance has risen steadily.

Still, riders continue to take unnecessary risks in the form of 3 or more riders, underage driving, and helmet-less pillion riders. While your 2 wheeler insurance covers the driver and vehicle, does it also cover pillion passengers? Read on to find out all about it.

Inclusion of a passenger in 2-wheeler insurance:

2 wheeler insurance is considered a comprehensive cover but is not in reality. By carefully reading the fine print, one can find multiple exclusions which can be added to the cover as an add-on facility. One such cover is to protect your passenger.

If you are considering whether or not to purchase the add-on, we strongly urge you to do so. Since two-wheelers are more vulnerable to accidents, minimal damage to the riders is inevitable. While your comprehensive plan covers you and your vehicle, buying an add-on will insure your pillion rider's life.

Inclusions of the add-on:

The add-on primarily lightens your moral responsibility towards your pillion passenger to keep them protected as long as you're responsible for their safety. In the following events, the insurance company approves the claims filed:

● Compensation for the death of the passenger to their legal heirs

● Payment in case of partial or permanent disability to the passenger

● Reimbursement of hospitalisation expenses incurred to treat the passenger

Who should consider buying the add-on:

While 2 wheeler insurance is mandatory for all, we recommend considering a pillion-passenger add-on as the same. However, suppose any of the following cases apply to you, then consider purchasing it at the earliest to minimise the extent of the financial burden you may have to face.

● If you regularly have a pillion passenger travelling along

● If your regular passenger happens to be a child or a senior citizen, it is best to cover for contingent mishaps

Exclusions to consider before filing claims:

This add-on is undoubtedly helpful in insuring your fellow rider’s life. However, before filing a claim, you must ensure that the following:

● The driver has a valid licence

● The driver was not under the influence of any substance

● The driver must be the owner of the vehicle and must purchase the policy and add-on in his name

● The accident must not be intended to be an act of self-injury by the driver

These are generally excluded conditions that reject a claim. Since making 2 wheeler insurance mandatory, its penetration has significantly increased. Authorities should also consider making policy equipped with comprehensive benefits to cover all related parties and ensure maximum protection of the riders and vehicle.

Click HERE to buy a reliable 2 wheeler 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.

Do you own a business and are undoubtful if you need to purchase a public liability insurance policy? This post will discuss why you should get public liability insurance, the advantages, and a list of businesses requiring it. It is advised to have a public liability insurance policy if you deal with members of the public or clients to ensure protection against damage to third-party.

Following are the businesses that are at risk of going bankrupt due to a single lawsuit if they don't invest in the public liability insurance policy:

1. Businesses that produce chemicals

2. Restaurants

3. Contractors

4. Hospitals

5. Universities and colleges

Let's first define public liability insurance policy before discussing these five businesses.

What is insurance for general culpability?

Public liability insurance protects businesses and their owners from being sued if someone gets hurt within their property or causes damage to someone else's property. This insurance pays for the damage costs, which otherwise the insured might have to pay.

For instance, if you host an event and a public member is harmed within your property, your public liability insurance will pay for any associated legal fees and compensation claims that the injured party may make.

What all is protected by public liability insurance:

• Property damage and physical harm

• Cost of counsel

• Cost of a claim
 

What is excluded from the policy:

• Reputational damage or another form of slander

• Accidents involving employees

You can purchase general liability insurance (GLI) if you want more protection. GLI protects a broader range of people, like business owners, employees, and vendors, from these risks.

Here are a few examples of firms that unquestionably require public liability insurance policy.

1. Businesses that produce chemicals:
After the Bhopal disaster in 1984, the government required any company working in a dangerous area to have public liability insurance. The Public Liability Insurance Act of 1991 requires you to purchase PLI coverage to protect yourself from lawsuits arising from accidents and harm to the public.

2. Restaurants:
A necessary component of any restaurant business is public liability insurance. PLI safeguards eateries from the expenses associated with damages. Accidental hot food spills, cutlery that falls, and slick floors are possible scenarios. It also protects the business if a customer claims damages because they got sick from the food.

3. Business owners:
If you do construction, plumbing, or electrical work on a client's property as part of your business, you must have public liability insurance. While working there, the insurance will defend you from any claims against you for injuries to individuals or damage to the customer's property or equipment.

4. Hospitals:
Hospitals are another business that could be sued for injuries or damage to property that happens while doing business. Any harm or death caused due to the doctor's negligence in this situation is not covered by PLI. For such a risk, doctors need professional indemnity insurance coverage.

5. Colleges and universities:
If a fire breaks out on the grounds of your school or college and a few students are hurt, PLI will pay for the cost of legal defense and any compensation demanded by the injured students or their families.

We've talked about a few specific businesses that require public liability insurance, but this is a partial list. Public liability insurance is a requirement if your business interacts with customers, staff, or the public.

Finding a good insurance company and the best coverage for your business takes time, consistent efforts, and deep research. Once you've decided, you'll have an insurance agent to offer advice based on his knowledge and experience. Nowadays, things have become digital, and you can easily buy a public liability insurance policy online with just a few clicks and a hassle-free payment process. It is recommended to always seek legal advice to find the best solution based on your situation.

Click HERE to buy a reliable public liability 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.

Public liability insurance in India is a kind of insurance that aims to shield business owners from claims that lead to legal actions. It protects you if a customer or general public claims that your business activities caused them to suffer an injury or property damage. A policy will pay for these costs, which may include any compensation you are required to pay if a claim does end up going to court.

More about public liability insurance in India:

The public liability insurance policy covers the insured's legal obligation to pay third parties for unintentional death, physical injury, disease, and loss of or property damage. Subject to the limitations of indemnity and other terms, conditions, and exceptions of the policy, it covers the financial claims filed against the insured during the policy period, including legal fees and expenditures spent with the prior agreement of Insurers.

A few important points to remember:

● No culpability is acknowledged

● Claims filed more than five years after the incident won't be considered

Myths about public liability insurance:

1. Professional assistance and counsel are covered:
It's common to mix up professional indemnity insurance with public liability insurance. Public liability in India covers the costs related to unintentional damage and injuries. In contrast, professional indemnity protects against claims from professional negligence in business services and advice.

2. If you are sued, you can close the company:
If you own a small business, closing it won't make the case go away if you are proven legally responsible for someone getting hurt or something getting broken. The lone proprietor will be held personally liable indefinitely for any claims brought against a small business. Even while persons who run a limited company can close their company, they will still need to deal with any legal actions brought against them. Only a public liability insurance policy will be useful in these circumstances.

3. The purchase of public liability insurance is mandatory:
Businesses are not obligated by law to buy public liability coverage. However, it would be crucial to buy this coverage if you want to shield your company from having to pay out astronomical sums in claims. While performing their duties, your personnel may harm people or damage someone else's property. Businesses operating in public areas or on clients' property need this insurance policy. Get a public liability insurance quote if you need to figure out how much it will cost.

4. Loss is compensated through public liability insurance:
That's only partially accurate. Public liability insurance in India does not cover pure monetary loss. Therefore, a third party cannot demand reimbursement for the monetary damage they have sustained due to a service provider's acts.

5. Every time you sign a new contract, you'll need new insurance:
Most of the time, firms only have a single policy to cover all the contracts and projects they take on. However, for public liability insurance, when a new contract entails significant risk or is substantial, buying new insurance can be required rather than renewing an existing one. Almost every public liability insurance in India has flexible coverage options.

This simplifies adding new features when the company expands or takes on new jobs. This will be practical and guarantee that your business needs are addressed. Working with trustworthy and renowned insurance providers is essential when looking for insurance coverage to safeguard your small business. Your business can benefit from having the best public liability insurance in India.

Click HERE to learn more about public liability insurance 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.

Due to the extreme population density, everything in the country is crammed up and congested, which also applies to the roads. Driving on city roads or highways is complex and challenging. If you're learning to ride a two-wheeler, this article might be helpful for you.

In India, road accidents are frequently encountered. Every minute, a road accident occurs in some part of the city, which puts everyone at risk. The density of people per square foot of the road is way more than it is supposed to be. So much so that it exceeds the safety limits.

If you own a two-wheeler, the roads can leave you vulnerable and scared. You should keep many things in mind when driving through congested roads, and your safety comes at the top. You should also have a valid insurance policy to safeguard you and your two-wheeler. Research the best two wheeler insurance rate in India and purchase the policy that suits your needs and is within your budget.

Let us thoroughly look at the tips to keep you safe while driving across congested roads.

1. Do not lose focus:
Focus is extremely important while riding a vehicle. Avoid all distractions that can cause you harm while riding. Phone calls, music, or small talk with your fellow passenger can be distracting. It can lead to road accidents in a blink of an eye. Hence, it is best to avoid them all.

2. Keep an eye on the road:
Whenever you drive, you should keep an attentive and careful eye on the road, people, and other vehicles. Most people are not cautious while crossing the road, especially in market areas or other congested roads. This puts the responsibility on you to be extra alert. Look out for any pedestrians on the road when you ride your vehicle.

3. Do not over speed:
Over-speeding is one of the leading causes of road accidents and fatalities in India. Fast driving on a congested road can lead to disasters. It is advised to slow down as and when necessary. It is best not to put too much pressure on the accelerator as congested roads have comparatively lesser space to occupy vehicles and allow them to commute swiftly. Plus, the risk of colliding with pedestrians or street vendors is always high.

4. Plan your trip well:
You must have a clear idea of the route you're going to take. It is wise to sort out your route on maps before you begin your journey. You don't have to waste time and effort sorting a route in between your ride. Preferably avoid taking congested roads even though they might show the shortest route.

5. Maintain a safe distance:
You should maintain a distance from the other vehicles. Do not drive too close to other vehicles. The same is advised for people on the road as well. Maintain a safe distance from all to avoid accidents. Also, look out for the speed breakers and potholes carefully.

6. Follow traffic rules:
It is mandatory to follow all the traffic rules whenever you're on the road. Violating traffic rules can land you into several troubles, from penalties to even imprisonment. It is best to wear a helmet and carry all required documents during your ride.

These tips can help you make your way through congested city roads. If you are a new rider on the streets, you should always focus on the road and be attentive while driving. Additionally, you should also insure your vehicle with a valid insurance policy. The two wheeler insurance rate should be researched and found beforehand to help you make the best choice.

Click HERE to know the best two wheeler insurance rate to buy a comprehensive policy.

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.

India ranks among the top 10 countries with the most two-wheelers in the world. Indian roads and highways are crowded with two-wheelers of all makes and designs running in different directions. This also means that you need to take great care of the vehicle that you ride on. It should have all the proper documentation. You will be compelled to pay a fine or compensation if you lack these documents.

Your bike insurance plays a pivotal role in the safety of your two-wheeler. You must renew your insurance from time to time to be free from any future problems. The expiry can result in a significant financial loss if it is not renewed. You may also be penalised for not adhering to valid insurance.

To prevent yourself from this mishap, you should be well aware of the expiry date of your bike insurance. You now have the option to know about the expiry date of your bike insurance online. The steps are hassle-free and doable.

Let's look at the ways and means to renew bike insurance online.

1. Visit the website of your insurer:
You need to go to the insurance company's website to look at your policy's expiry date. The steps are:

● Visit the website or app of the insurance company

● Sign in to your account

● Fill in all the important information and log in

● Go to the bike policy that you've opted for

● You will get all the information, including the expiry date

2. By VAHAN website:
VAHAN is the official website of the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, Govt. of India, which keeps the records of all the registered vehicles in India. It has all the information about the insurance policies of these vehicles. The expiry date of your insurance can be easily checked on this website. The steps to follow are:

● Go to the VAHAN website

● On the designated field, enter the registration details of your bike

● Click on the button marked Proceed

● Go to the Services menu

● From the list of options, click on Additional Services

● When the new page is shown, enter all the details asked for

● Enter your registration number, chassis, engine number, and verification code

● Go to Verify Details

● An OTP will be sent to your registered number for verification

● Upon giving the information, you will see all the details, including the expiry date of your insurance

3. By Email:
Your insurer sends all the essential information, including policy documents, to your registered email ID. If you want to look at the bike insurance expiry date, you can simply search for it in your email inbox. Make sure it is the same email you used to register for the bike insurance.

4. Through RTO’s website:
For a country like India, RTO has all the given information as a record for all your needs. This also means that it has a track record of the expiry date of your bike insurance. You simply have to log in to the official RTO website and look at the process. Follow the steps to access all the information related to your bike. It also includes the expiry date of your policy.

5. State transport department website:
Most Indian states have introduced the new feature of checking your bike details online. The transport department of these websites has all the information you will need for your insurance policy. Go to the official website and enter the details to access the information you're looking for. You will have details of the expiry date as well.

These are some of the most effective ways to check the expiry date of your bike insurance. You should always renew bike insurance online to protect it against any accidents. Failing to renew your policy in time can make it null and void, and you won't be able to enjoy the benefits anymore. Damages incurred during this phase will not be covered by your policy, putting financial pressure on you.

Click HERE to renew 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.

As the Motor Vehicle Act specifies, every bike owner must acquire a third-party insurance policy. You may compare bike insurance online and choose the policy that offers the most value for your money while providing superior coverage. You can compare different plans with a hassle-free process.

Why is bike insurance comparison important?

Given the variety of bike insurance options available in the market, it is advised that you compare these options online before selecting the best policy for your motorcycle. Online comparison of plans across numerous categories is simple as more information is readily available. These comparisons assist you in choosing the bike insurance that offers you the most benefits at the lowest premium.

The best two wheeler insurance is a comprehensive 2 wheeler insurance plan because it covers both own damage and the legally required third-party bike insurance. Additionally, you can purchase any necessary add-on coverage to broaden the scope of your standard policy.

Here are the key elements you need to consider while evaluating various bike insurance options online.

1. Best coverage:
You may go through several bike insurance plans when comparing two-wheeler insurance online. The coverage may vary slightly depending on the insurance provider. You can pick the best protection that will work out well for you.
You should be aware that manually comparing bike insurance policies will take time. The best way is to research online and digitally compare different policies and their coverage before making the final decision.

2. Most suitable policy:
It's best to assess your needs before comparing bike insurance online. Because you will be clear on your plan's benefits, the purchasing process becomes faster. It enables you to choose the insurance policy that best fits your needs.
A comprehensive bike insurance plan is recommended for those who expect to ride their bike for a long time as it provides coverage for "own damage," and the third-party bike insurance. Your insurance provider will cover the cost of restoring the bike in the event of any damage.

This kind of insurance also provides a broad range of coverage, including protection against accidents, theft, fire, natural disasters, man-made disasters, third-party liabilities, and personal accident insurance for the bike's rider.

3. Customer support service:
Always keep customer service quality in mind when picking a bike insurance provider because it guarantees the prompt resolution of your complaints. Checking the insurer's social media pages for consumer comments, reviews, and ratings is a good place to start.
It is crucial to purchase the best coverage from a reputable insurer and the finest policy possible. Look for special services that an insurer provides, such as prompt repairs, easy pickups, helpful customer service, etc.

4. Network of service centres:
The availability of network garages is crucial for hassle-free bike repairs. You must consider the number of network garages listed under specific insurance if you want a cashless claim settlement for your bike.
Finding a nearby cashless garage during a road incident would be easier if your insurer has a nationwide network. Therefore, pick insurance with an extensive network of garages so you can benefit from quick, stress-free repair services and efficient claim processing wherever.

Don't forget to check out the chosen insurer's social media pages, brochures, and website. You will gain insight into the company's reputation. Check features like a quick, paperless, and efficient purchase & claim settlement process before concluding the deal. If you intend to purchase bike insurance online, you must abide by the aforementioned requirements to find an affordable and appropriate policy that meets your needs.

Click HERE to buy the best bike insurance for your motorcycle.

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.