GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

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

While building your home or renovating your existing apartment, design, furniture, wallpapers, paints, etc., are just some of the many things you need to consider. However, one of the lesser talked about things is the house's flooring. Choosing a floor involves various factors such as climate, the people, pet and child friendly etc. Having an interior designer can significantly help you in selecting the right fit for you.

Sometimes, even the best flooring can show defects due to various climatic and other factors, and you might need to change your flooring after a while. This is when your insurer plays a significant role. Your insurance provider will take care of the extra expense that you have incurred in the process of revamping your floors due to the damage. Keeping these things in mind, opting for the best home insurance in India should be your first step to building your dream home.

Today, we will be looking at a complete guide that will help you choose the best floors for your home.

1. Lifestyle:
Depending on the lifestyle of your family members, your flooring preference will change. e.g., if you live with older people, you might want to look for floors that provide some friction and prevent the cold. Hence, choosing a floor that serves functionality and style is essential. If you are a pet parent, you might want to opt for textured floors to ensure that your pet’s joints and muscles remain in proper health.

2. Durability:
Quite literally, your house stands on your floor. Hence, it is essential to opt for durable floors. Paying a slightly higher price for quality material ensures that your floor stands the test of time and sustains all the pressure.

3. Weather conditions:
Weather conditions are the driving factors in flooring selection. You need to keep your house warm. It is wise to invest in wooden floors and add carpets to ensure your floor remains warm throughout. Marble flooring is a smart option for hot or warm places as it retains the cold temperature during the night and keeps your house cool.

4. Colour theme:
While we discuss the floors' functionality and cost-benefits, choosing a floor that goes well with your house's colour and the theme is also important. An interior designer can suggest the latest trends and flooring patterns that add value to the interiors of your house.

5. Maintenance:
Opting for fancy flooring and sticking to a theme is just the first step in ensuring the longevity of your floors. It is also essential to go for options that are easy to maintain. Floors such as quarry tile, carpet tile, epoxy flooring are all examples of durable yet low maintenance flooring. The only thing these floors require is daily sweeping and deep cleaning once a month. On the contrary, high maintenance flooring requires regular upkeep and intense cleaning to avoid discolouring and scratches.

The floor is what holds your room together, so choosing the right floor can make or break the look of your room. The above discussed are a few points that you can look out for before selecting the best flooring options for yourself.

Compare the prices in the market to make sure that you are getting the best quality products for your home. Another good option would be investing in the best home insurance in India to safeguard your home against unforeseen circumstances. Remember, your floor selection is about balancing your requirements with your style. Use the internet and look out for various brochures and more ideas online.

Click HERE to know about the best home 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.

Transportation and trading of commodities have never been more accessible than now. Taxis, tractors, cranes, transport trucks, and other motor vehicles have become standard trade methods in various industries. Often, these vehicles operate outside of the commercial space and are subject to many dangers on the road.

Business owners require commercial vehicle insurance coverage to handle these risks successfully. Owners can purchase insurance covering third-party and own-damage claims and get it renewed as and when needed.

Let's get a better understanding of commercial vehicle insurance in general.

What exactly is commercial vehicle insurance?
Commercial vehicle insurance policies protect owners whose vehicles are used for business purposes. There are a variety of vehicles covered under this policy, including delivery trucks, staff cars, food trucks, and more.
The motor insurance policy provides liability and accident coverage and helps you with the payment of damages and medical costs in case of accidents. It will also cover the towing costs if your vehicle breaks down in the middle of the road.
If you're looking for online motor insurance renewal for your commercial vehicle, you need to first ensure the types of vehicles covered by the policy. Additionally, you can cross-check various insurance companies for the best features and premiums. Online motor insurance renewal is beneficial, especially when you are in the midst of day-to-day business activities.

Types of vehicles covered by commercial insurance.

1. Vehicles that carry passengers:
It includes a variety of vehicles that typically carry passengers, such as cabs, rickshaws, school buses, and private buses. Passenger transport vehicles such as taxis and school buses bear a great deal of duty due to the high volume of passengers they transport regularly. Commercial vehicle insurance protects these vehicles from financial ruin in an accident and also protects the passengers they carry.

2. Vehicles for moving goods:
Goods-carrying vehicles are primarily used for transporting goods from one location to another. Because these vehicles are so enormous and loaded with goods, they pose a greater risk. Damages to a third-party car or one's own vehicle, as well as damage to commodities, are covered under commercial vehicle insurance. It all depends on the policy coverage; therefore, thoroughly read the terms of all the plans before making a final choice.

3. Miscellaneous & Special Vehicles:
Aside from trucks, taxis, buses, and cabs, numerous other vehicles are utilised for business or commercial purposes. Special vehicles for mining, farming, and construction, for example, could be among these vehicles. Insurance for commercial vehicles protects the vehicle from any damage or loss resulting from or caused to the vehicle.

Commercial vehicle insurance has many advantages:

• Commercial vehicle insurance can be deducted as a business cost from your income tax.

• Travel agencies, automobile rental services, and other businesses can buy this insurance plan in bulk. This simplifies the procedure while allowing for a cheaper premium rate.

• It covers any losses caused by unexpected events like theft, fire, vandalism, terrorist attacks, and natural calamities.

• It provides additional rewards in the event of a death resulting from an accident.

• No claim bonus is given during policy renewals if there has been no claim throughout the policy period.

• It provides coverage for the litigation and legal bills that have been filed against you.

Your company's financial stability depends on how efficiently your commercial vehicles work and facilitate the business. Businesses must opt for purchasing motor insurance to safeguard their vehicles from all potential risk factors. Online motor insurance renewal is the best option for companies already owning an insurance policy. Alternatively, you may choose to include several optional coverages with your basic plan for some extra fee.

Click HERE to get an online motor insurance renewal.

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

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.