GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

How well are you prepared for a situation like a brake failure? Well, most people can't imagine the correct answer. Imagine you are driving comfortably, and your eyes are engaged on the road. Then, when you approach traffic or a speed breaker, you hit the brake pedal, but your car doesn't slow down. You repress harder this time, but you are still speeding. Are brake failures terrifying to even think about? It's best to prepare for such panic scenarios.

Brake failures usually are not recognized beforehand; they hit you when you are in motion. It can be a panicking situation leaving the driver clueless and inviting a potential threat to his life.

In today's post, we'll talk about the dos and don'ts to stop your car safely when the brakes fail.

What to do?

1. Don't lose your cool:
We understand it's easier said than done but try not to panic. This will only put you and the passengers in unnecessary danger at the time of an actual stressful situation.

2. Go easy on the throttle:
Immediately take your foot off the accelerator pedal. You don't want to speed up even by mistake as it can only worsen the situation and make the vehicle handling uncontrollable.

3. Pump the brakes:
Press the brake pedal multiple times to generate enough pressure in the hydraulic system of the brakes. This can miraculously work out, and you'll be able to halt your car even after brake failures.

4. Lower the gears:
If the pumping doesn't help, shift into a lower gear gradually. Doing this increases the mechanical resistance, referred to as engine braking.

5. Engage handbrakes:
Some cars can restrict you from shifting to extra-low gear until the car has slowed sufficiently. In such cases, handbraking comes in. When you engage the handbrakes, do so gradually. If you suddenly apply them, your car can go skidding to make the situation worse.

6. Turn on the AC to the maximum:
Turning the AC to the max will take a few kilowatts of power. Turning on all extras will cause resistance to the alternator that can help you slow down.

Other dos:

● Keep your vision on the road at all times.

● Turn on the hazard lights. This will notify other drivers that you're in an emergency.

● If you notice an uphill road, use it to your advantage. Taking your vehicle to it will help you curb the speed.

● Wear your seatbelt at all times.

● Follow the speed limits on all roads.

Now that you know what to do. Let’s discuss the don'ts real quick:

● Do not continue driving on cruise control.

● Do not cut the ignition or change the gear to neutral as you will lose the full control.

● Do not shift from higher gear to low gear drastically. The same goes for handbrake. Do not engage it at once. This can cause skidding.

● DO NOT shift to reverse gear. This will completely shatter the gearbox, and further will not allow you to downshift.

● Don't move sideways with a speeding vehicle. Yes, it increases friction, but you run the danger of spinning out.

● Do not run into a concrete wall or a block to crash stop; go for shrubs and bushes.

When such situations arise, you are in danger and the rest of the commuters around. Therefore, you must think rationally and make decisions. You and your car can sustain damage in such scenarios; having reliable car insurance at your disposal will help you recover from it. If you have one, check for your car insurance renewal before you hit the roads. Car insurance renewal is a ticket for extended protection of your prized possession.

Also, don't ever overlook the necessity of having your car serviced at regular intervals so that critical safety systems, such as braking, are well maintained.

Car insurance renewals are possible online now. Click HERE to do it right now.

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.

COVID-19 vaccines strengthen our immune system, and help it recognize and combat the coronavirus. The type and frequency of doses vary for different vaccines, however, beneficiaries are advised to take two shots of vaccines currently available in the country. Post vaccination, it generally takes a minimum of two weeks for anyone to build immunity against the virus.

Key Information and COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory:

• From 1st April 2021, all individuals over the age of 45 (irrespective of co-morbidities or pre-medical conditions) are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.
• Beneficiaries are requested to complete all prescribed doses of the vaccine.
• As per medical experts, post-vaccination effects (nausea, mild fever being the most common) are normal.
• Even after vaccination, all safety measures for COVID-19 are to be strictly followed at all times, including social distancing and wearing masks.
• The duration for which the COVID-19 vaccines are effective and its efficacy against the new strains of the virus is still unknown. Hence, it is absolutely essential to not let our guards down.
• We urge you to not be misled by fake vaccine marketing / promotions, as it is not available in open markets yet.
• Do not attend a vaccination appointment if you are self-isolating, or awaiting COVID-19 test results, or are unwell.
• Research efforts are ongoing for knowing how many people should get vaccinated to attain herd immunity (which means enough people being vaccinated making it tough for coronavirus to spread from person to person). Hence, rumors about herd immunity being already attained, should strictly be ignored.
• To know more about the vaccines, please download the CoWIN App, or log on to www.cowin.gov.in. You can also visit the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) website (www.mohfw.gov.in) for regular updates about COVID-19.
• For any queries, call the Government helpline number 1075 or +91 11-23978046.

Cost and Availability of COVID-19 Vaccine:

• Vaccines are available at different government hospitals for free and at private hospitals at a price of INR 250 per dose.
• The COVID-19 vaccination providers cannot deny any individual above the age of 45 to get themselves vaccinated, except for reasons best known to medical practitioners.
• The government is currently working on making the vaccines widely available for everyone at no cost in the coming months.

Your car gets you safely everywhere you want to go, but it requires that you take good care of it in order for it to keep running. Some of these simple maintenance issues can actually result in an accident or injuries. Take the time to make sure these 10 things are checked regularly and maintained as needed and avoid a potential accident or claim.

Tip 1: Change the oil. Neglecting oil level checks and fresh oil changes will not do your car any favours.

Tip 2: Change the oil filter. Check the oil level once a month and replace the oil filter regularly.

Tip 3: Check your brake fluid. Check when transmission fluid and power steering fluid need to be replaced as well.

Tip 4: Check the tyre pressure each month. You should check your tyres regularly by ensuring that they are properly inflated and that the wheels are aligned. Not only will you get better mileage, but your tyres will last longer too.

Tip 5: Check the windscreen wipers. Make sure they are not damaged and are in a good working condition, as driving without proper visibility is dangerous.

Tip 6: Change the air filter. Keep your engine clean by regularly replacing the air filter.

Tip 7: Check the windscreen. Inspect the windscreen for small chips and scratches. These are reasonably cheap to repair, while replacing an entire windscreen is expensive.

Tip 8: Check your lights. This means indicator lights, hazard lights and headlights. Replace burnt out bulbs immediately.

Tip 9: Check the dashboard. Don't ignore the dashboard if there are flashing lights or the temperature gauge is suddenly extra hot. Stop as soon as it is safe and read the manual to make sure it is safe to drive further.

Tip 10: Protect the exterior of the car. A coat of good quality wax will ensure that your vehicle paint is protected. Apply the wax every six months.

Keep your car in good running condition and it will keep you safe and in control on the road. It takes a short amount of time to check these important functions, but can save money, fuel, and even lives in the long run. Make sure the functions of your car aren’t the only thing you’re checking. Get Car Insurance at the best price and protect your prized possession!

A good helmet is an essential motorcycle accessory for your safety. It protects your head from severe injuries in an accident and can be a lifesaver. The helmet cushioning makes your ride comfortable, especially on a long drive. Moreover, you can also use it to add to your style statement.

A good motorcycle helmet shield is a must feature in a helmet. You should maintain your motorcycle helmet shield to extend the helmet's life and ensure clear vision. Let us discuss how to maintain a motorcycle helmet shield.

1. Cleaning:
The first step to maintaining our motorcycle helmet shield is regularly cleaning it. A dirty shield can obstruct your vision and invite an accident. In most cases, regular glass cleaners can do the job for you. Spray some glass cleaner on the shield, and use a soft and clean cloth to rub the shield's surface. It will remove the dirt from the surface and make your shield spotless.

2. Films and sprays:
Films for helmet shields are easily available at any motorcycle accessories shop. You can customise it according to the size of your helmet shield. It will create a barrier between rain and your shield and help to drip it off quickly. Moreover, you can put a film of any colour of your choice and make your helmet look cool and fancy.
Similarly, several sprays available in the market can be used for the same purpose. Anti-fog sprays are also available, which you can use from the inside of your helmet shield. They do not allow condensation to build up during the cold weather and help in clear vision. Films and sprays also protect your helmet shield from scratches and damage.
Ensure you do not keep your helmet shield up while riding through dusty passages, as it will ruin the effect of anti-fog spray and hamper your vision.

3. Wax:
Buy a good quality wax that can be applied on a helmet shield. Rub it on the surface, and use a soft, clean cloth to add shine to your motorcycle helmet shield. Wax can be effective in adding shine to your helmet shield while protecting it from scratches as well.

4. Keep distance:
Keep some distance from the vehicle in front of you while riding your motorcycle, especially at high speeds. This will ensure you are not bombarded with small stones and dust from their tyres. It will keep your helmet shield safe and secure. It will not crack, nor will scratches appear on its surface.

5. Keep your helmet safe:
Always ensure that your helmet does not fall from wherever you keep it. This applies to both home and outside. Also, avoid keeping it on the seat, mirrors, or handlebar, even if you are away for a few minutes. A fall can break your helmet shield or add scratches to it. Install a helmet hook on your bike and use it to hold your helmet while you are away.

A clean and shining helmet shield is a must while riding a motorcycle. A dirty helmet shield is a big no-no. It can hamper your vision and can cause serious accidents. Moreover, it will spoil your style and looks. When we talk about riding safety, two-wheeler insurance protects you and your motorcycle against damages and accidents, similar to a motorcycle helmet shield. Compare hundreds of options, and buy the two wheeler insurance online that fits your needs and budget. It will provide you with complete protection and financial assistance if your motorcycle is stolen or damaged.

Click HERE to buy two 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.