GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

If you own a car, you have to check on different parts that might require maintenance and replacement from time to time. You cannot be careless; otherwise, it might risk your and your family's safety and cause damage to your vehicle. In addition, it might restrict your dependency on it until the issues get fixed. Therefore, you need to stay ahead of these problems and watch for future repair and upkeep indications.

This article will discuss a few ways to identify worn-out brake pads and how to fix them. Now, worn-out brake pads are a thing you can miss out on while driving your car. But, first, you need to understand why you need to change your brake pads and how often you should change them.

Brake pads are made from various materials, ranging from metallic to composite to ceramic. However, irrespective of the material they're made of, you are supposed to replace them occasionally. Therefore, making sure that your car stays operational is very important, and changing worn-out brake pads is a part of accomplishing that. In addition, replacing your brake pads helps you in minimising your vehicle maintenance costs.

Now let's discuss WHY you need to change your car's brake pads:
1. Brake pads don't last the lifetime of your car and need to be changed at regular intervals.

2. They lose their efficiency every time you drive your car. So, the more you drive your vehicle, the more worn out the brake pads will be.

3. If you use your vehicle occasionally, the brake pads will still need replacement later than those who use their car frequently.

4. The car's ability to stop effectively reduces with worn-out brake pads. As a result, the overall effectiveness of the braking system also decreases.

5. The diminishing ability of your car to stop due to worn-out brake pads might lead to severe accidents, endanger the lives of the passengers, and cause severe damage to the vehicle.

HOW to identify if it's time to replace your car's brake pads:
1. It is helpful to have a brake pad sensor and "alert" light in your car. The light turns on, giving a notification that your brake pads need replacement.

2. Screeching or squealing noises while driving or applying the brakes indicate worn-out brakes.

3. Replace the brake pads if you notice that the car brakes are shaking. You will also realise that more effort is required to stop the car, and the braking is no longer smooth.

4. There is a grinding noise upon hitting the pedal.

5. During an oil change, when your car mechanic informs you about wearing and tearing of brake pads.

6. If they have reached their limit of service. Brake pads come with a stipulated period to work to their best performance. Eventually, they deteriorate in quality due to constant friction and wear and tear.

Now that we have discussed a few ways to identify worn-out brake pads, it would be wise to invest in car insurance to claim proper maintenance and various expenditures in unprecedented circumstances. You can explore all available insurance options and buy online car insurance that suits you best for your car.

Click HERE to know more about online 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.

Two years ago, the pandemic took over our lives like a storm. People were locked inside their homes for months on end. And as soon as the restrictions were lifted, we saw an increased number of people looking for ways to unwind. Having been cooped up inside their rooms for a long time, people started looking for alternate work locations. This became a growing trend amongst the working group. Studies suggested that taking workcations positively reflected the employees' morale and increased productivity.

The term workcation is a combination of two concepts; work and vacation. We saw people flooding their social media with pictures of them working from beautiful mountains or beaches in the background. If you have been wondering where to go for your next workcation, this article is just for you. We have brought a list of a few places you can go to enjoy your work.

1. Pondicherry:
If you are looking for an ideal beach location, Pondicherry is the place for you. It hosts various big and small cafes with a soothing ambience. Make use of the free Wi-Fi in the cafes for your work as you indulge in the delicious treats offered. Spend time in various eateries in the mornings and unwind by the beach for spectacular sunsets in the evenings.

2. Kasauli:
Any Ruskin Bond fan will know why Kasauli is on this list. This beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh boasts picturesque views of snow-clad mountains and lush forests. Kasauli, to date, holds memories of British history in its architecture. The churches offer a peaceful environment, much like the rest of the city, where you can sit with a warm cup of coffee and work your way through a stress-free day.

3. Munnar:
For a tea lover, there's no better way to work than with the aroma of tea in the air. Munnar hosts a variety of tea museums and stalls where you can enjoy the different kinds of tea that the town has to offer. The misty hills, the fast-flowing streams and tiny little cottages are equivalent to paintings. Enjoy your tea with some traditional Kerala banana fritters as you clock off for the day.

4. Udaipur:
The Venice of the east has an array of lakes with the beautiful Aravali hills skirting it. Work in the midst of royalty as you explore the various breathtaking palaces that Udaipur hosts. Characterised by a rich history, Udaipur is a must on your list if you are a history enthusiast. It has something for everyone, varying from grand palaces to tiny cafes, monotony is out of the question for any traveller.

5. Goa:
This is a no brainer for anyone wanting to take a vacation. If you are a party animal, there are many options in North Goa. Work in the mornings while enjoying the sounds of the beach and join the crowd for the party in the evening. However, if you prefer peace and calm, South Goa is the place for you.

These are a few places you can choose from for your next workcation. Keep in mind that the pandemic is not entirely over. So wear masks and carry sanitisers at all times. With such unpredictable times, it is a wise choice to buy insurance policy online. Invest in an insurance policy to ensure your travel plans are intact, and in case of an unforeseen expense, you stay is covered.

Click HERE to buy insurance policy 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.

Imagine you are already running late for an important meeting and get stuck in traffic. It sounds dreadful. With increasing traffic situations, two-wheelers are the most convenient way to reach your destination. In addition, they are easier to maintain and much more affordable.

Two-wheelers are your asset, and investing in one means choosing the best for your needs without ripping your pockets. So, here's a checklist that will make the decision easier when you buy a two-wheeler.

1. Understand the purpose of your two-wheeler:
Understanding the purpose of your two-wheeler is very important. How much will you use it? What will your daily travel be like? Are you going to use it for office work, personal travel, long rides, etc.?
Based on your purpose, you can select the right two-wheeler. For example, if you are taking it for family use, you might consider taking a vehicle that's convenient for every member of the house. Similarly, if you are going to use it for office or personal use, a bike can come in handy.

2. Mileage:
This is no surprise that petrol prices are becoming sky-high. Every two-wheeler comes with extra mileage, and you don't want to invest in one that shakes up your finances with the increasing expense of petrol every month.
Depending on how much you can spend on fuel every month, look for a vehicle that gives good mileage. When you search online, you can get details about the vehicle's mileage and decide accordingly. For example, a sports bike will have less mileage than a scooter.

3. What is your budget:
Budget is one of the top factors to consider when buying a two-wheeler. First, understand your monthly income, consider your expenses, then look at how much you're willing to spend on the two-wheeler.
If you are looking forward to paying for your two-wheeler in monthly installments, consider determining the EMIs you will have to pay. If they are too much, you need to develop an effective saving plan.

4. Service and maintenance:
No two-wheeler works properly without good maintenance. However, when you visit the store, ask about the after-service that you will get. Mainly, most companies offer first three services. Understand how much you have to spend monthly on the vehicle's maintenance. It will always help if you go with popular two-wheeler brands whose spare parts are affordable and readily available.

5. Features:
Every person has different expectations from their two-wheeler. Some may look for a good design, while others lean more towards comfort. Additionally, if you have back issues, you may want to consider that driving the two-wheeler does not hurt your back. List all the features you are expecting and consider the above points before selecting the best two-wheeler for you.

The tips mentioned above will help you determine if the two-wheeler is perfect for you or not. After deciding, ensure that you buy bike insurance online to protect your vehicle if things take a wrong turn and put a less financial strain on you. Your dream two-wheeler is just a few steps away. Go ahead and confidently pick the one that suits your needs!

Click HERE to buy 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.

From ice-capped mountains in the north to beautiful peninsulas in the south, India promises several travel experiences for everyone. What astonishes the travellers is the diverse local culture, cuisine, and lifestyle that you can enjoy in every part of India. The country comprises various big and small islands with rich cultural backing, and today we will look into a few of these to help you plan your next summer vacation. We bring the top 05 best islands to visit in India, which you can add to your travel bucket list.

1. Diu island:
Possibly one of the most beautiful islands on the list, Diu Island consists of beaches and heritage that are sure to enchant anyone who visits here. From forts to caves to museums, Diu offers so much to explore.
The Diu fort reveals some of the forgotten Portuguese histories with eye-catching stonework structures. After exploring the city throughout the day, a visit to Chakratirth beach is a must. With a stunning sunset and a backdrop of local food stalls, this is the perfect place for you to unwind.

2. Havelock islands:
One of the most talked-about islands, Havelock hosts tourists throughout the year. The largest island in Andaman, it's famous for its blue water, picturesque views, and adventurous water sports. It is an easy competition to foreign beaches and will give you a lifetime of memories.

3. Lakshadweep islands:
The smallest group of islands with a population of as few as 60,000 residents, Lakshadweep is where you would want to go to stay away from the tourist crowd. Spending time on the island will help you closely see the local life in an island town. Since the beautiful beaches are the island's main attraction, this is your go-to destination if all you want is to hear the waves crashing and seagulls hooting.

4. Munroe islands:
Munroe island in Kerala is a cluster of eight islands that promises an impeccable view of narrow canals connecting a network of backwaters. Munroe islands was once an unexplored territory, and only now has it started opening to tourist exploration. Munroe has beautiful rustic architectural relics that have stood the test of time. It still holds the old culture and lifestyle of the place intact. You can enjoy a wide variety of home-cooked meals while enjoying homestay and interacting closely with the locals.

5. St. Mary's islands:
A collection of 4 small islands, this place is famous for its unique rock formation similar to Ireland's. A serene island, close to the coast of Udupi, it has significance in science as well. It is believed that these unique rock formations were caused due to subvolcanic activities in Africa.

These are a few of India's many beautiful island tourist destinations, which magnetically attract people from all over India. Remember that these places are set away from the mainland; hence ensure to look into safe and comfortable travel options. Carry first aid, emergency medicines, and snacks for the commute. Insure your travel plans with general insurance for greater financial safety. You can buy general insurance online and safeguard yourself against any unprecedented expense you might incur during your trip.

Click HERE to know more about how to buy general 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.

Imagine you have an urgent meeting in five minutes, and your two-wheeler refuses to start! In such times our mind completely freezes and fails to think of any solution.

Your previous knowledge of jump-starting your bike can come in handy in a situation like this. In this blog, we will list down some of the effective ways to jump-start your two-wheeler in any case.

1. Check battery charge:
The first and foremost thing you need to do is check the charge of your two-wheeler's battery. If the backlight and the headlight are glowing brightly, the battery is okay. If not, you need to take care of it immediately because it prevents you from starting the bike or scooter. If your two-wheeler is not starting at all, it's time to resort to one of the following methods.

2. Use another bike:
Ask someone to lend their bike to jump-start your two-wheeler. First, make sure that both the vehicles are on neutral and off. Next, connect the battery terminals of both the bikes with the help of jumper cables. After connecting them, start the other motorcycle and start yours. With no extra effort whatsoever, your two-wheeler will start. After that, take off the jumper cables and keep them somewhere safe and easily accessible.

3. With the help of a portable jump starter:
Keeping a portable jump starter at home is usually advisable, especially when your bike is a few years old. This method is easy and also the quickest one:

• Check that your bike, as well as the jump starter, are in off position.

• Connect the attached cables of the jump starter to your bike and switch it on.

• Try to start your bike.

Generally, it doesn't take more than a second or two for the bike to start, but still, if it fails to start, give it a minute or two. In addition, always keep your jump starter charged.

4. Using outside stimulus:
One of the traditional ways to jump-start your bike is to apply an outside stimulus. The most used way is giving it a push from behind. All you need to do is ask your friend, neighbour, or passer-by to push your bike while sitting on it. Remember to keep your bike in second gear to ensure safety.

The other way is to find an empty stretch of road (it's always better if the road is downhill) and try to push your bike down it. Once your bike gains a needed amount of momentum, it should start. However, always remember that the downhill is not very steep and doesn't have sharp turns or traffic. These are precautions to take to avoid an accident.
It is difficult to ignore the fact that all these options can cause harm to your bike too. Incidents are unpredictable. Therefore, to avoid unexpected and unfortunate events, it is better to have bike insurance to save you from the fear of extra expenses. Ideal bike insurance can protect your pockets from the extensive costs involved in servicing and repairing your bike.

Click HERE to know more about different deals on bike 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.

The braking system in any bike is the most important mechanism. A Japanese auto giant has been granted a patent for their combination braking system (CBS) for motorbikes. The combi brake system (CBS) simultaneously applies the front and rear wheel brakes with a single lever.

According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ new requirements, all two-wheelers sold post-April 2019 with an engine capacity exceeding 125cc must be fitted with Anti-lock Braking System, while models with an engine capacity of 125cc or less must be equipped with a combi-braking system (CBS).

In this post, we're discussing CBS, including its merits and demerits. Read ahead if you wish to know about this remarkable technology.

CBS vs Traditional Braking System:
The most effective braking approach is to use both the rear and front brakes simultaneously. However, most bikers either don't possess the skills for it or simply lack patience. Even if a rider manages to apply both brakes simultaneously with less competence, the chances are that they won't be applying proportional force to both brakes.
In most circumstances, this results in unstable and dangerous braking. The Combi Brake System with equaliser minimises stopping distance. It also enhances braking stability compared to traditional braking so that you may ride with the assurance of effective brakes.

Merits of CBS:

1. Braking distance minimisation: It helps to minimise accidents caused due to unexpected braking by reducing braking distance compared to standard brakes.

2. Safer option: It is better and safer than the standard brake system. CBS aids in maintaining the bike's balance during braking and avoiding the risks of accidents.

3. Suitable for wet surfaces: CBS delivers greater performance and secure braking in slippery and bumpy road conditions.

4. Availability: Combi Brake System's price is relatively modest, and it's simple to use on standard motorcycles. In contrast to the Anti-lock braking system, which only works with disc brakes, the CBS system works with both disc/drum and drum/drum braking combinations.

Demerits of CBS:

The Combi Brake system is not ideal for high-performance two-wheelers. It also impairs the handling of motorcycle riders who perform stunts on the bike, putting them in dangerous positions when confronted with abrupt and intense events. That is why Indian law has only made it mandatory for bikes whose engine capacity is lower than 125cc.

So far, more than 10 million people ride bikes with CBS. While CBS may have some disadvantages, they are mainly concerned with high-performance two-wheelers. In moderate engine capacity bikes, the pros outweigh the cons. While the Indian government makes it mandatory to have CBS in bikes below 125cc engine capacity, it is also required to have two-wheeler insurance according to the Indian Vehicle Act.

Renew or buy the best 2 wheeler insurance online available in India. Several insurance companies are offering exciting offers for online transactions. So, purchasing 2 wheeler insurance online has become more popular, especially post-pandemic. You need to be wise and choose a policy that will be the best for your bike.

Click HERE to purchase 2 wheeler insurance online.

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

With the summer approaching, we are all excited to get out and soak up the sunlight. Road trips during the summertime are at the top of everyone's bucket list. You can enjoy a long drive to sandy beaches and resorts or a journey to cooler, remote hill stations.

While we all love long road trips, they can quickly get exhausting when you're stuck in the same spot for hours on end. The landscape might be worth every bit of your patience, but driving for several kilometres at a stretch can be mentally and physically bothersome.

You may invest in motor insurance India to secure your vehicle's health but caring for your health while on a lengthy midsummer journey is equally needed. Following these tips while driving long distances can make your journey more comfortable, safe, and fruitful!

1. Plan ahead:
Planning your road trip is essential so that you manage to follow the itinerary and reach your destination on time. As you know, you're going to be driving for long hours at a stretch, so you must make sure to pack all the necessary items to carry.
Keep track of your routes and highways, petrol pumps or gas stations on your way, restaurants or motels for refreshments, and the amount of food and water you require during the drive.

2. Prepare your vehicle:
Whether you are taking a car or a van, ensure the vehicle's condition and fitness are thoroughly checked before setting off on your journey. Check if your car fits for the long drive and the fuel tank is full to its capacity before leaving. Also, check the air pressure in the tyres and examine all other technical requirements.
Ensure that you carry all necessary car documents like your car's registration certificate, motor insurance India documents, driver's license, and PUC certificate.

3. Stay hydrated and eat well:
Dehydration and an empty stomach can disturb you immensely while on the road. Dehydration for long hours can cause blurry vision and muscle cramps that are incredibly dangerous while driving. The sweltering heat can get to you and cause dizziness if you haven't eaten.
Make sure to drink enough water and consume plenty of liquids during your journey. Eat a healthy meal before taking off and eat energy-giving, light foods whenever you make stops during the trip.

4. Take enough breaks:
Driving may be stress-relieving for some individuals but sitting behind the wheel for long hours can physically strain the body. You must make regular stops along the journey and get out of the driver's seat. Stretch your arms and legs and relieve any tension in your neck and back. Inculcating this habit can make the long journey much more comfortable.

5. Keep essentials handy:
While food, water, and car documents are the most vital essentials to carry, remember to pack other travel essentials like sunglasses, caps, sunblock, a torch, and a scarf or sweater. Carry emergency hardware to fix your car if any damage is caused on the road. Keeping a first aid kit is essential as you never know when you might need it.

Long road trips under the sun are what summer dreams are made of, but they can quickly become challenging. You must not forget to secure your health and safety in all the fun. Following these tips can relieve long-distance drivers from the issues they may face on the road. Prioritising the security of your vehicle is equally important. So invest in an ideal motor insurance India policy to protect you from unexpected losses and put less pressure on your pockets in case of physical damages to your car.

Click HERE to know more about motor 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.

Did you know that you can insure your car for a short period? Such as a few days or weeks. You must purchase short-term car insurance, often known as 'temporary car insurance.' Although it may seem strange, temporary car insurance is available, and people are already buying it.

Furthermore, short-term car insurance begins as soon as you pay for it. Some people may find that a short-term insurance policy is not ideal if they are unsure about their driving requirements. Let's take a closer look at a short-term car insurance policy in greater detail.

What exactly is short-term car insurance?
Short-term auto insurance can be valid for as little as a few hours or as long as some months, depending on the type of coverage you choose. It is possible to obtain short-term or temporary vehicle insurance coverage in some circumstances, such as when a person is not looking to purchase car insurance for more than a year.

How does short-term car insurance work?
Most Indian insurance policies fall into one of two categories: third-party liability and comprehensive insurance, with the latter being more commonly offered. In most cases, a standard automobile insurance term lasts one year. If one chooses to purchase comprehensive insurance, they will buy additional coverage through add-ons and benefit from other features. On the other hand, purchasing at least third-party insurance is mandated by law and gives the bare minimum of protection to the owner of the covered car in the event of an accident.
In situations where a person's need to drive a car is constrained by a specific time frame or a clear exit criterion, temporary car insurance may be necessary. Here, a person doesn't need to buy car insurance for a year because they don't drive a vehicle much. The time commitment could be anything from a few hours to a month or two at the most. Temporary auto insurance is uncommon in India, yet it is widespread.

Different types of short-term car insurance.
The coverage provided by short-term car insurance is minimal. It might be available in the following categories.

1. Rental car insurance:
Rental car insurance is the name given to the policy that protects a vehicle while it is being rented. Insurance policies for rentals typically include coverage for things like accidental damage and injury.

2. Gap insurance:
This insurance covers vehicles previously leased or financed through third-party financing. It provides gap insurance coverage in the event of a total loss, which is defined as damage that cannot be repaired. If the insurance provider compensates you for the fair market price of the vehicle, this policy will cover the difference.

3. Non-owners insurance:
Non-owners insurance is comparable to rental car insurance, although primarily available for private automobiles. People who borrow cars from family or friends are likely to buy non-owners insurance to protect themselves in the event of an accident.

Now that you've learned about short-term car insurance policies, you can make the most of a monthly car insurance plan to protect your vehicle. When you are only using a car for a limited time under the above three conditions, this is the most effective way of avoiding financial obligations. However, you should be prudent that not all car insurance companies offer this type of protection.

Click HERE to get more information 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.