GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Be it the snow-capped mountains in the North or the golden sands of the Sahara in the West, India promises something for everybody and provides a wide variety of landscapes, flora and fauna. The country also hosts a wide array of activities like paragliding, surfing, trekking etc., to adventure seekers. However, in this article, we will discuss one of the lesser talked about activities, which is bird watching.

Bird watching is not just limited to spotting birds. It also gives you a better opportunity to explore nature, trees and other aspects of nature. Over the past years, owing to the growing number of endangered bird species, India has dedicated various sanctuaries for birds. These sanctuaries host a mixture of domestic and migratory birds.

Bird watching demands patience and perseverance, but the result is rewarding and exhilarating. Bird watching tours can be an excellent way to enjoy your vacations while indulging in new knowledge activities.

Let’s look at a few places in India that promise an impeccable bird watching experience.

1. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat:
Rann of Kutch sees about 300 different species of birds around the year. It is one of the largest breeding grounds for the Lesser Flamingo. Thousands of flamingos are seen flying together, making the skies a beautiful shade of pink. Short-eared owl, Syke’s lark, Greater Flamingo, Great White Pelican are just a few of the many birds that you will spot here.

2. Keoladeo national park, Rajasthan:
The Keoladeo national park is India’s most famous bird-watching site. It is located in the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The small area of about 29 sq km is the feeding ground for over 400 different bird species. The wetlands have naturally formed earthen mounts to provide perching spots for birds to feed on fish and other aquatic species. The best time to visit is between December and February when migratory birds visit the sanctuary.

3. Kaziranga national park, Assam:
Famously known for its one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga also hosts various species of birds. Kaziranga is famous for its unmatched ecological importance. The Brahmaputra flows alongside the area making the river basin a basis for all life in the region. It has also been identified as IBA or Important Bird Area as it hosts a multitude of birds such as Jerdon’s Babbler, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Cinnamon Bittern etc.

4. Nainital, Uttarakhand:
In the Kumaon region of West Central Himalayas, one can see a wide range of different flora and fauna. Nainital is home to over 250 Himalayan bird species. The best time to visit is anywhere between November to May. Few species one can spot in Nainital are Chestnut-headed Laughingthrush, Cheer Pheasant, Greater Yellownape, etc. You can experience several walking trails for bird watching here.

5. Chilika Lake, Odisha:
Chilika bird sanctuary in Odisha is one of the most extensive winter grounds for migratory birds. It hosts some of the unique species, such as Purple Moorhen. It also hosts one of the largest breeding grounds for flamingos. The best time to visit is between October to March.

These are a few of the many opportunities you can consider to enjoy bird watching for your next vacation. As mentioned above, bird watching can seem like a tedious exercise, but the results are mesmerising. Keep in mind that you must always carry food, water, and first aid while going birding, as most of these spots are inside jungles or above hills.

Traversing through these terrains might present itself with certain challenges as well. Another essential thing to consider is to invest in general insurance plans before planning to travel. General insurance is sure to add value to your experience while also acting as a safety net for any unforeseen expenses you might face during your trip.

Click HERE to know more about 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.

Owning a house is a lifelong dream for most, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Analysing the market, arranging the funds, making remodelling decisions and getting house insurance takes a lot of time and research. However, renting a house is no picnic either.

Looking for the perfect house, checking out the neighbourhood, ensuring safety, inspecting the amenities, budget, shifting, agreements, meeting the landlord, etc., are significant factors that need to be considered before making a final decision.

Whether you are a homeowner or renter, you need to get insurance. Owner's and renter's insurance have different terms and conditions, and the policies are structured accordingly.

Are you confused between the two and find it challenging to figure out their differences? Let's understand the difference between the policy of homeowners and renters with specific pointers to help you find a suitable policy for you.

1. Coverage:
While homeowner's insurance covers the building, garage and other structural amenities, the renter's insurance covers your personal belongings and property. The landlord is supposed to have insurance cover for the building.

2. Coverage cost:
The homeowner's insurance covers the cost of your home in case of a complete loss. Additionally, it also covers personal property like jewellery, appliances, apparel, etc., that gets damaged or becomes completely irretrievable due to the circumstances. On the other hand, renter's insurance only covers the replacement cost for your lost or stolen possessions on the property. It does not cover any damaged or destroyed possessions.

3. Price:
Given the coverage, it is understandable that renter's insurance is cheaper than homeowner’s. This varies due to the renter's insurance's limited scope as compared to the homeowner's.

4. Factors that are considered:
The factors that decide the price of the homeowner's policy include the type of property, the amount of personal property you need coverage for, location, etc.
For renter's insurance, the amount of personal property coverage and the area you live in are considered essential factors determining the price.

5. Other liabilities:
Homeowner's insurance incorporates personal liability coverage. This covers the legal fees if someone gets injured on your property. The homeowner's and renter's insurance cover living expenses if you need alternative accommodation solutions due to house damage, disasters, fire, etc. If you or someone else gets injured in your home, your insurance will cover their medical expenses too.

6. Which one do you need:
Renters need to verify that they get renters insurance, medical coverage and a personal liability policy. Several homeowners take renters insurance to avoid further hassle and disputes about financial loss.

In the case of renting out your property, you need to ensure that the homeowner's insurance has adequate coverage and doesn't lead to any confusion or disputes. You can always check with your insurance agent before renting out your property, whether it's a small space or a lavish villa.

Insuring your home is paramount. Never skip on the benefits that home insurances offer. Browse through different plans and purchase the best house insurance India. Make a smart investment, and rest assured.

Click HERE to know more about house 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.

Travelling is the best way to explore new places and experience things you've never tried before. But often, when it comes to female travellers, it is restricted due to safety reasons. It is understandable how security is a concern for women but don't let it get in the way of your explorations.

The finest places to visit aren't always the most travelled or popular ones. Hence, we have listed some of the loveliest destinations to visit alone or with your girl gang!

1. Bali:
Bali is one of the most amazing locations for female travellers. Besides cultural tours, it is also a great destination to enjoy a beach vacation. The town's laid-back and tranquil ambience makes it safe for single female travellers. The region has a terrific atmosphere that allows you to reconnect with your inner self.

2. Hong Kong:
Regarded as one of the cities with the least crime rates globally, Hong Kong is a must-see destination for all tourists. It has reasonably priced lodging, which is a perk. The city also has one of the quickest modes of transportation, making it a travel-friendly location for solo female travellers in every manner.

3. Meghalaya:
Meghalaya gains fame from its natural splendour, but what distinguishes this state is how smoothly the matrilineal system runs here. Meghalaya treats its ladies with great respect. Not only do you feel protected in this Northeastern state, but you also get to view society from a new perspective.

4. Melbourne:
Melbourne is a secure city for women and one of the trendiest destinations to visit globally. The great cafe culture of the city makes it an attractive choice for cheerful summer holidays. This could be a perfect place for your all-girls vacation since it gives you access to luxury, peace and fun altogether.

5. Switzerland:
It's safe, gorgeous, and full of options for female travellers. Switzerland's attractions include its beautiful mountains and picturesque magnificence. The core of Switzerland is seeing the big cities and observing the cultural fusion.

6. New Zealand:
New Zealand is a beautiful island country scattered in the Pacific Ocean and one of the most fabulous destinations for women to visit alone. Its pride and glory is its stunning terrain, adorned with spectacular beaches and volcanic gems. New Zealand is a piece of heaven on Earth and one of the most fantastic places for single female vacations.

One should never face curtailment in experiencing the different cultures and people worldwide. We hope this article helps you choose the destination for your next trip with your girl gang.

But remember, wherever you travel in the world, your safety and security are in your hands. Always take the necessary precautions and carry travel insurance to cover damages to luggage, theft and other concerns that you might face while travelling. You can check the general insurance online quote from different insurance companies for competitive premiums and additional features. It is crucial for women travelling solo to protect their trip with full travel insurance to stay safe.

Click HERE to get general insurance online quote

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.

Maintaining commercial vehicles like trucks, carriers, tempos, cars, etc., can be challenging at times, but it is common knowledge that regular maintenance ensures a longer lifetime of vehicles. And missing out on these services will result in expensive repair works that can put a load on your pocket.

Hence a wise option is to follow a regular maintenance regime for your vehicle and invest in motor insurance that provides several benefits while also helping you stay on a budget.

Today, we'll look at ways to ensure your commercial vehicles stay in their best shape.

1. Keep a vehicle checklist:
Since various drivers use and drive commercial vehicles, maintaining a checklist is a good idea. This will ensure that each driver is reminded to check fuel levels, tyre pressure, brake systems, and batteries before making a trip. After the initial check is done, they will know all the shortcomings and fix them before departure.

2. Change engine oil:
Since the oil in heavy commercial vehicles can be spoiled by dust and small dirt particles, it is advisable to change it regularly. Polluted oil can affect the optimal functionality of vehicles and cause various issues during the trip that will be expensive to fix. The oil filters should also be changed frequently to avoid an accumulation of dust and other residues.

3. Engine maintenance:
Excessive smoke, decreased power, and loss of oil pressure are a few indicators of engine failure. Ensure that the engine goes through professional checks to identify any additional defects. These procedures involve exhaust temperature, monitoring engine cooling, and boost pressure.

4. Inspect tyre pressure:
For the maximum value of tyres, keeping a check on the tyre pressure is non-negotiable. Commercial vehicles do not stick to one kind of road. They traverse various terrains to cover long distances and undertake multiple business operations. Inspecting the tyre pressure is the best way to increase the life of tyres. Another way of ensuring better health is by rotating the tyres before they wear out.

5. Keep the vehicles in the shade:
Keeping commercial vehicles away from the harsh climatic conditions when they're not under operation helps maintain their shape for extended periods. If garages and sheds are not an option, you can opt for vehicle covers. They also help in keeping the chassis of the vehicle clean.

6. Train the drivers:
Training the drivers in performing minor repair works can help you reduce maintenance costs in the long run. Conducting drills on maintaining the vehicle and dealing with emergencies as a team can help them understand basic procedures and share ideas and tricks.

Compensating your drivers for putting in extra work, providing health insurance, and good living quarters is an excellent way to ensure that the drivers are well-rested and taken care of. This way, they are less likely to cause accidents.

These were a few ways to ensure the better health of your commercial vehicles. Owning a business that includes commercial vehicles comes with its own set of challenges, but regular upkeep and servicing can ensure reduced cost and investment in the long run.

Do not forget to invest in motor insurance, as it will add value to your service by providing a safety net against all expenses in an unprecedented situation such as accidents or machine failure.

Click HERE to know more about 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.

Every homeowner must invest in home insurance to rely upon in case of unforeseen events. It secures not only your house and its belongings but also the residents. Whether it is due to weather-related damages, unforeseen break-ins and theft, or unfortunate fires, a reliable home insurance plan can efficiently help you through these challenges.

The percentage of homes insured in India remains significantly low at a mere 1% compared to the U.K, U.S, Australia, and France, which stand at 97%. Indians still need to realise the importance of home insurance and its benefits in securing lives and properties.

While it is vital to invest in the best home insurance plan, knowing if it covers all your requirements is equally essential.

Let's look at the most common home insurance claims that homeowners usually make.

1. Fire inside the house:
Some of India's most common home insurance claims are registered for unforeseen fires. A fire can take place anywhere, anytime. Overheating of appliances in the summer heat and sparking of electric wires due to poor insulation are often the sources of fires inside the house. The interiors of a home are filled with various materials, like wood, that can quickly catch fire. These fires can be controllable only if detected in time. But, if not, they can cause irreversible damage.

2. Fire on the home property:
While fires inside the home can cause significant damage, fires on the entire residential property can be disastrous. Fires caused by gas leakages, water leakages into electric circuits, short circuits, etc., can threaten the whole structure of the house. Homeowners' losses due to these fires are overwhelming and are commonly filed as home insurance claims.

3. Break-ins and theft:
Break-ins and theft have become a common occurrence that several people nationwide complain about. Even with the most advanced, complex, and dependable security systems, thieves break in and steal valuables in the wee hours of the night. Troubled homeowners frequently seek insurance claims concerning the damages caused by these break-ins in their property.

4. Landslides and Flooding:
Many states in India face natural disasters such as landslides and flooding. These natural tragedies are another common reason for filing a home insurance claim. While the coastal areas face annual flooding, the hilly regions of the country witness frequent landslides during monsoons or deforestation. These natural disasters cause heavy damage to the properties. In such cases, home insurance plans can help manage the recovery of financial losses.

5. Man-made disasters:
While natural catastrophes cause enough property damage, human negligence can cause just as much damage. Failure of homeowners or the people living around them can threaten the home or property. Water leakage, using low-quality products, improper care of the property can destroy not only your own home but also of your neighbours.

The above are the most common home insurance claims filed by homeowners. Sudden natural or man-made events can cause significant damage to your home and life. While we can be as cautious as possible, there are unforeseen events that we cannot escape.

Investing in home insurance India secures your future from unpredictable events that can cause severe damage and losses. Stay free from the monetary stress and add value to your priceless possessions with the safety net of the proper insurance to receive good returns on your investment!

Click HERE to buy reliable home 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.

Nobody likes to anticipate any worst-case scenario, but we still prepare for them. However, people investing in home insurance in India are as low as 1%. This shows the lack of awareness about the importance of home insurance which makes Indians highly susceptible to financial and property losses that take years to recover. Every individual who wants to secure the future of their family and property must invest or buy home insurance.

Once you buy home insurance, you can recover from household losses more efficiently. However, purchasing a reliable insurance policy is not enough. It is crucial to abide by the strict regulations involved in your home insurance. Every individual must follow the entire list of dos and don'ts of the insurance policy.

To avail the benefits of your home insurance successfully, you must know some of the critical points that can nullify your home insurance.

1. Renting your home:
While you may think you have the complete liberty to rent out your home, this could jeopardise your insurance policy. Several home insurance companies reject the idea of insuring a shared house. Renting out your home or registering it as a homestay on hotel booking sites can become a risk as insurance companies look at it as sharing your property with someone you don't know well. They might consider this threatening enough to cancel your insurance plan altogether.

2. Exaggerating the value of your home:
If you exaggerate or overestimate the value of your home, it can lead to the cancellation of your home insurance plan. Insurers always cross-check the details given by the homeowner and verify them. To help this, you can show an inventory of all the things you own and their actual monetary and market value. It is good to save receipts of appliances, furnishings, etc., to provide evidence.

3. Practising illegal activities:
Illegal activities like the consumption or sale of narcotics can be grounds to cancel your home insurance policy. No company wants to deal with individuals going against the law. Insurance companies provide policies based on the homeowner's character. Practising illegal activities can be a solid red flag. They may nullify your home insurance policy on the grounds of suspicion. Filing fraudulent claims to gain funds from the insurance company is another illegal activity to steer clear of.

4. Long periods of absence:
If you plan to be absent from home for an extended period, you must check the insurance policy's requirements before you leave. Home insurance policies usually have terms for how frequently they need an adult individual to check on the house's conditions. You must request a trusted individual to check on the condition of your home as per the required intervals. This helps verify that the house is protected against any unknown damage, break-ins, or theft. Contact your insurance company before leaving for an extended period to avoid confusion.

Although most Indians are aware of the dangers of earthquakes, natural calamities and other security threats for their homes, they still do not buy home insurance. You may choose an insurance company to buy home insurance online India that provides you financial security with the additional benefit of covering your insured belongings.

So, check the above set conditions and other guidelines of your insurance contract to avoid your policy getting cancelled.

Click HERE to buy home insurance online 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

Failure of brakes can be a terrifying experience for drivers and have life-threatening consequences. According to statistics, a significant number of road accidents occur due to failed brakes. But how can you avoid such mishaps?

Apart from getting your car checked and serviced periodically, one way you can save it from landing in such grave situations is by being aware of the signs of brake failure.

This blog will discuss the possible reasons for brake failure in cars.

1. Brake cylinder:
A damaged or rusted brake cylinder is one of the leading causes of brake failure in cars. The brake cylinder's function is to compress the fluid. It consists of a fluid reservoir, which has a connected steel tube. There are higher chances of fluid leakage in the rusted pipe or the cylinder. This leakage can lead to brake failure.

2. Brake pad:
Brake fade is the term used for overheating of the brake pads. The overheating is caused due to excessive usage of the brake pads forcing them to become hard or fragile. Due to this, brake pads lessen their grip around the rotor or the disk, resulting in the car covering a certain distance before coming to a full halt when you press the brakes.

3. Overloading:
Overloading your vehicle can reduce the power of the brakes and potentially damage the braking system. You need to ensure that you follow the manufacturer's loading capacity to avoid the malfunction of the car's brakes.

4. Proper replacement:
Many people ignore the importance of changing the brake pads after some time. Brake pads can wear out due to excessive usage and lose their grip causing the brakes to fail. To avoid any risks, you must replace the brake pads and get the brake system thoroughly examined by a mechanic.

5. Moisture:
Moisture in the brake fluid can potentially damage the braking system. When the car runs, the liquid temperature rises, and the moisture (water droplets) becomes steam. The steam upon transmission can cause a brake system failure. Therefore, it is recommended to change your brake fluid after a certain period as instructed in the car manual.

6. Brake booster:
A brake booster magnifies the force you put on the pedal to push it. The failure of the brake booster can significantly lessen the maximum amount of power you need to slow down or halt your car.

7. Auto parts:
Using bad quality auto parts in your car is one of the worst decisions you can make. Their poor quality makes them unreliable and can lead to the failure of the brake system.

Other reasons which could lead to brake failure in cars could be damaged brake hoses, driving roughly through mud or water, issues with rotor disks, improper lubrication, etc.

Some other signs that indicate a brake failure:

• Issues with the brake pedal

• Dark brake fluid

• The braking system warning light is on

• The vehicle takes longer to halt

• Burning smell

• The car moves to one side when brakes are applied

• Grinding noises

That's a wrap on the discussion about some reasons for brake failure in cars. We all have understood the importance of keeping the vehicle in good condition. Unexpected brake failures can be a nightmare and lead to adverse consequences. It would be wise to undertake all the above possible reasons with severity and periodically examine your car's braking system.

Another way to safeguard your car against damages and accidents is by investing in car insurance. Review various plans and select the car insurance offering maximum coverage to your vehicle.

Click HERE to know more about best 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.

A car has become more of a need than a luxury in recent times. It makes commuting and travelling highly convenient. People invest their time, effort and capital while purchasing a car to ensure it is to their liking while meeting their requirements. Many factors influence their purchase, like the model, budget, convenience, features, etc.

Taking care of your vehicle is crucial. You need to ensure that your car is regularly maintained, cleaned and goes for servicing periodically, as instructed. Always use authentic auto spare parts and follow all the service standards recommended by the manufacturer.

There are also chances that many exterior parts might get damaged due to extensive use of the vehicle. The wheels face maximum wear and tear due to constant friction. Practice these care tips to keep your car’s tyres and rims in good condition.

1. Pressure:
It is essential to check the air pressure of your car’s tyres, preferably before you start driving. Suppose the pressure is below the recommended limit, then there is a considerable danger of a blowout that might disbalance your car. This condition can wreak havoc on your driving and risk your safety. In addition to this, low pressure also reduces your vehicle’s efficiency, mileage and affects the life of the tyres.

2. Inspection:
You need to deeply examine your vehicle’s tyres for unusual wear and tears, cuts, punctures or other damages. Get the car checked by an expert for repair or replacement if needed. In case of a puncture, replace the tyre with a spare until you get to a service centre and have it inspected by a mechanic thoroughly. Call a professional if you’re stuck with a damaged tyre in the middle of a long-distance road trip.

3. Rotation:
Maintain a rotational routine of your car tyres to ensure an even balance of tread wear. Ensure proper examination of the tyres by a professional during the rotation procedure. They can help you determine early or late wearing down and find the reason to save you from any further risks.

4. Curbs:
Bumping into or driving close to the curbs can damage or bend the rims. Try practising parallel parking with cones or other items that will not scrape off your rims if you bump into them.

5. Properly clean up:
Use standard quality products and cloth materials to clean the rims of the wheels. You can risk corrosion of the metallic coats and cause damage to the alloys if you use acid-based cleaners. Use a gentle soap and water mixture and rub firmly to make the rims shine.

6. Alignment:
Misaligned wheels can lead them to wear out unevenly. This ultimately causes loss of control, reduces their strength, and amplifies fuel consumption, reducing efficiency. Get your alignment adjusted whenever you get your car inspected by a mechanic.

Other tips to keep tyres and rims in good condition include maintaining good driving practices, avoiding overloading your car, inspecting the tread depth, ensuring that the spare tyre is in perfect state, accurate wheel balance, etc.

We covered one crucial aspect about taking proper care of your car. But to avoid any severe damages and monetary stress due to unprecedented circumstances, it is wise to get your vehicle insured. Purchase car insurance that caters to your needs and safeguards your vehicle from damages and financial loss.

Click HERE to know more about car 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.