GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

It can be highly frustrating for any rider to turn the key in the ignition, and the vehicle fails to start. There are several reasons for your bike giving way and facing trouble starting smoothly. While a motorcycle's design is simple to understand, it can be challenging to point out the reasons for these ignition issues. However, knowing about the possible reasons causing these issues is essential in maintaining your vehicle and fixing these problems.

You may consider the extreme winter season to be the main reason your bike fails to start, but there are several more. While you can always rely on bike insurance for critical problems, you can read the points below to learn the probable reasons for the two-wheeler failing to start.

1. The battery is weak or dead:
Some two-wheelers are designed to start using an electric self-start. Their motor is dependent on the battery. If this motorcycle does not start when you press the self-start button, it could be because the battery did not transfer a sufficient charge to kickstart the motor.
A weak or dead battery cannot provide this high voltage to the engine, and therefore, the electric self-start won't be operational. In this case, you may have to call a mechanic to either recharge or replace your bike's battery.

2. Too cold:
This frozen state of the bike is caused mainly due to extreme cold weather conditions. Combustion doesn't occur correctly as the gasoline in the vehicle doesn't evaporate when mixed with air. There might be ice build-up that is causing the malfunction. You can use a space heater directly on the engine for 15-20 mins to get your motor running.

3. The fuel tank vent is clogged:
Since the fuel tank vent in most motorcycles is too narrow, it becomes inconvenient to supply fuel to the intake system consistently. The vent can get clogged due to no regular maintenance and cleaning, and the fuel supply gets restricted. If you find yourself stuck in this mess, try to unclog the duct with a thin pin or get it cleaned.

4. Blocking intake or exhaust:
A blocked airbox or a blocked muffler exit may be another significant reason your bike won’t start easily. The motorcycle’s mechanism is dependent on the intake and exhaust system, and your bike will give away if it is restricted or clogged for some reason. Get it checked by a professional as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

5. The clutch does not engage properly:
The clutch lever needs to be correctly pulled to start your bike successfully. Often, problems can occur in the ignition when the clutch does not engage correctly. Try again by bringing your transmission into neutral and then starting the bike. Sometimes, riders turn off their bike while in gear and forget to put it back into neutral. You must set your bike into neutral and start again.

6. Problems with the spark plug wire:
A loose or cracked spark plug wire can also cause your bike to fail to start. Constant heating of the engine will eventually deteriorate the material of the wires in the motorcycle over time. Places with extreme weather conditions can be a catalyst in the cracking of the spark plug wire. If you find any cracks or slits in your bike's wires, replace them to avoid any issues.

These are a few likely reasons why your bike may fail to start. While investing in a reliable bike insurance plan can secure your vehicle by covering the expenses involved in the garage repairs, it is essential to know about the issues that could arise with your two-wheeler. Being aware and getting to the root of every problem can avoid future losses.

Click HERE to buy a comprehensive bike insurance plan for your new bike.

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.

What are the primary things that come to your mind when you think of car maintenance? Oil changes and engine inspections. But what most of us forget are windshield wipers. These underrated blades are just as crucial as the engine of your vehicle. We do not need them often, and wipers don't seem to do much in our daily driving. So, it's assumed that they don't require much attention. However, during unexpected changes in the weather, wipers are an integral part of your vehicle maintenance to ensure safe driving.

Why are car wipers important?
The first pair of wipers for cars were made back in 1903, and since then, their use has advanced significantly. These key technologies improved car safety and allowed drivers to travel in adverse weather conditions. Latest windshield wipers come with a variety of enhanced functions and settings. Modern devices have been built to be simple to use, effective, and maintain clarity while driving.

Importance of maintaining wipers:
It is common knowledge that clear vision is the most critical driving component. Appropriately functioning wipers are a way to ensure complete visibility for the driver.
If you don't repair your windshield wipers on time, the blade may tear and break away from the wiper. As a result, the bare metal or plastic wiper arm can scratch the windscreen as it scrapes over it. Damaged windshield wipers can also produce scratches on your glass, resulting in higher repair costs. It's far easier to examine and change your wipers regularly than paying for windshield repairs.
Windshield wipers' care varies from place to place, depending on the region you live in and their frequent use in the vehicle. However, the wiper blades are supposed to be replaced every six months.

How to clean / replace your wiper blades:
Regular cleaning of the wiper blades should be done to increase their efficiency. You may begin by wiping the wipers down with clean towels and mild detergent. Then clean the edge of the blade with a towel soaked in alcohol to get rid of any leftover grime and dirt.
Replacing wiper blades regularly is a low-cost investment in your driving security. To begin, measure the durability of your wiper blades or consult your car's owner's handbook for the correct information. After that, you may buy and install fresh blades. Next, lift the arm of the windshield, press on the little button under the wiper, and slide the blade off downhill to remove the old blades. To swap the blade, tighten the new blade onto the arm. When done, a clicking sound should be heard.

Safe driving requires total visibility of the front view while you are in the driving seat. When rain or snowfall strikes, be sure you're ready with a clean windscreen. Therefore, ensure to inspect your wiper blades regularly and replace them when required. Also, add washer fluid and make sure to maintain the right combination. Maintaining your wipers and washer system is a simple and inexpensive method to keep you and your family safe while driving. Also, do not forget to invest in a reliable motor insurance India policy to keep your vehicle insured and obtain the benefits that it has to offer.

Get the best motor insurance India policies HERE .

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 often hear people talk about the beautiful roads and the impeccable views that are part of road trips. Especially during winters, we listen to riders talk about taking their bikes out to enjoy the sun's warmth above them. And, summer brings exciting travel plans to exotic destinations.

However, before setting for a bike ride on a sunny day and making your trip experiential and worthwhile, consider the following tips.

1. Sunglasses or tinted visors:
If the sun is glaring right at you from the opposite direction, it becomes challenging for the riders to see the road ahead and the fellow drivers on the road. Getting a pair of sunglasses ensures that your vision is not tempered and you have a clear view of everything on the road.
If you are someone who does not fancy wearing a sunglass, opting for a tinted visor is a great alternative. Tinted visors can double up as sunglasses and a face shield to prevent your skin from burning directly under the sun.

2. Wear appropriate gear:
If you are traversing through long stretches of roads, it is best to wear a bright-coloured vest. This will ensure that the person coming from the opposite side notices you, thus preventing a collision.
Another thing to note is that driving through harsh conditions will require you to wear anti-abrasion and impact-resistant gears. Opt for gears with mesh panelling to help you remain cool but protected against extreme heat.

3. Carry water:
Driving under the sun can cause dehydration and exhaustion. Take pit stops in the middle to drink water and rest. It is extremely important to maintain your body’s water levels. As you start sweating, your body will lose water. This can lead to heat-related illnesses. Do not forget to carry electrolytes for added benefits.

4. Vent the helmet:
Venting the helmet can help in cooling down immensely in hot weather. While riding, keep the vents open to dissipate the heat and allow air to sleek in for freshness.

5. Wear gloves:
The gloves will act as a barrier between your palm and the accelerator to avoid sweating and reduce the risk of accidents. They even protect your skin from direct sunlight, preventing the palm skin's tanning.

6. Apply sunscreen:
Ensure to lather your skin with enough sunscreen to protect the exposed body parts. Use sweat and water-resistant ones with at least SPF 30 rating.

7. The 12-3 rule:
Unless absolutely necessary, skip the riding in the peak hours between 12:00 noon and 3:00 pm. As this is the hottest period of the day, it is best to take a break. You could use this time to grab your lunch and restock your energy and water supplies.

These are a few tips that you can follow to make your drives easy and less tiring. However, if you feel dizzy or lightheaded, your body could be overheating. This could lead to heat strokes and can be fatal. Under such circumstances, it is best to pull over and rest under the shade or in an airconditioned restaurant or supermarket.

Long road trips can be exhausting for you and your bike. Take a day off to relax and drop your bike off at the nearest service station for a quick check-up before you set out on your next trip. Add value to the whole experience by investing in bike insurance to sit back and not worry about the expenses you might face later.

Click HERE to know more about bike insurance.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Trying various foods is always tempting but can also cause food poisoning or other stomach related problems. We experiment with new foods and cuisines but often overlook the consequences.

Food poisoning is mainly caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites in food. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, fever, etc. Food poisoning is accompanied by a stomach infection that makes your body lose more water than usual. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding solid foods is the first line of defence. As innocuous as it may appear, food poisoning can become life-threatening if not handled promptly.

However, you can treat minor cases of food poisoning at home with a few common everyday items. Read more to know about these magic ingredients from your kitchen that will soothe your food poisoning.

1. Garlic cloves:
While the idea of gulping raw garlic may be unsettling, garlic is famous for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. These characteristics make it an excellent home remedy to combat food poisoning. Take a couple of cloves of garlic and chew on them. Afterwards, drink some warm water.

2. Ginger:
Ginger helps decrease the symptoms of food poisoning. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe your stomach lining. Boil a cup of water with one scoop of grated ginger in it. Alternatively, you can directly eat ginger slices.

3. Cumin:
Cumin seeds, also known as jeera, provide immediate relief. Boiling one teaspoon of cumin seeds in water can cleanse your system. You can also combine it with one teaspoon of coriander juice and a pinch of salt. It stimulates the activity of digestive enzymes in your body, thereby improving digestion.

4. Lemon:
Lemons have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial qualities that fight the microorganisms causing food poisoning. Drink warm lemon juice and stay hydrated to reduce the pressure on your stomach.

5. Curd with fenugreek:
Curd contains beneficial bacteria that aid in the fight against other harmful bacteria in the body. Fenugreek seeds also have a high amount of soluble fibre, which absorb water and act as a lubricant, aiding in treating gastrointestinal discomfort. Consume one teaspoon of curd with one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds to ease your stomach.

6. Holy basil:
The best herb against food poisoning is holy basil or tulsi. This plant has many antibacterial characteristics that can help lessen the impact of food-borne diseases. For immediate relief from the symptoms of food poisoning, chew on a few fresh leaves that can be easily spotted in all Indian homes.

These are some tried and tested home cures that have proven to be effective through time. While some may notice a significant improvement in symptoms, others may not. In such circumstances, you must act quickly and seek medical assistance at the nearest health care facility.

It's always wise to plan for such unforeseen concerns by investing in health insurance. While you're taking these steps to cure food poisoning, your health insurance covers your medical bills in case of an emergency. Get one immediately from online health insurance companies and be secured by comprehensive coverage that can act as a strong safety net.

Click HERE to learn more about health insurance policy for you.

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.