GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

There are many instances when people overload their cars. It might be a fun road trip, a once-in-a-lifetime hike, or helping a relative or friend move. From clothes, shoes, and other accessories to the amenities like bicycles, coolers, mattresses, and more, it seems necessary to pack our whole house up before leaving for a road trip.

Similarly, when moving or helping a friend move, you try to take more and more stuff on one trip to reduce the number of rounds taken, often leading to overloading your car unnecessarily. This may result in car accidents and injuries, sometimes fatal for the passengers.

This blog tries to give you an argument against overloading your vehicle in the future.

1. Stress on the suspension:
When steering an overloaded vehicle, there's a high possibility of the weakest point giving out, thus resulting in a crash that endangers the passenger's lives and those with them on the road. It becomes increasingly difficult to steer the car in the right direction and turn safely on bends due to overloading. Your vehicle might face serious suspension issues, resulting in an unpleasant driving experience, especially on bad roads.

2. Instability:
Every vehicle is unique in how it reacts to excess weight. However, most vehicles become highly unstable as a result of excess weight. It becomes difficult to steer, and the stopping distance increases drastically, which can hamper the smooth running of your car. Sudden steering or manoeuvring is highly discouraged when a car is overloaded because it can result in a spinout.

3. Chance of blowing a tyre:
One of the biggest concerns while driving an overloaded car is that the tyres heat and blow up when they come across high degrees of pressure. There are increased chances of bursting, and at the very least, there will be increased wear and tear on the tyres, bringing maintenance issues.

4. Penalties:
You might be fined solely for the safety and well-being of fellow drivers and vehicles. After increased accidents in India due to overloading, stringent laws are being applied all across the country, and hefty fines are being imposed.

5. Compromised safety:
With an increased number of people and items in the car, it is improbable that any of the passengers will be able to put their seatbelts on. This is highly dangerous and can result in the compromised safety of everyone in the vehicle, especially if the car meets an accident.

6. Harder to apply brakes:
Brakes will take longer to stop an overloaded vehicle than a regular vehicle. This, in turn, makes it harder for the driver to react in case of emergencies and makes it highly unsafe for passengers due to the possibility of car crashes

7. Acceleration loss:
Acceleration is highly compromised when a car is burdened beyond its carrying capacity. It makes it harder for these cars to move smoothly between vehicles on a busy road, which can result in mishaps.

8. Reduced visibility:
Your rear vision will be impaired if items are packed on top of each other in the backseat. This reduces driver control and can lead to hefty fines if caught. Also, the cramped space that comes with riding with so many passengers aboard can severely hamper driver control.

9. More petrol consumption:
The engine demands more consumption of petrol to generate the power to drive the load in the car. While this may not seem like a high cost, it adds up to be a lump sum with time.

10. Discomfort:
Driving with such heavy equipment increases discomfort, and there's a high probability of a heavy object hitting your head if you apply the brakes too hard.

Although insurance rarely covers damages resulting from overloading a vehicle, it's best to research the best car insurance in India to be safe from heavy expenses if your car faces damages due to an accident. We advise you to avoid overloading your car in any case. It is not worth damaging your valuable asset and putting your life at risk for saving time and stuffing your car with excessive items. Safety should be your top priority. Therefore adapt to healthy driving practices to keep yourself protected throughout your journey.

Click HERE to know more about the best car 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.

Crowded places are a feast for pickpockets. They can easily pick our pockets while we move in cramped surroundings such as a busy market amidst the constant crowd nagging of people around us. Pickpockets do this so skillfully and swiftly that we are left unnoticed and outwitted. Losing our wallet can be frustrating, especially when it is loaded with important documents such as the driving licence, Aadhar card, voter id card, and even credit or debit cards. Moreover, the loss of money can be very harsh and painful for most of us.

So how can we deal with such situations? Here are some tips for outwitting pickpockets and staying safe in crowded places.

1. Move your wallet to your front pocket:
Never keep your wallet in the back pocket in crowded surroundings. Pickpockets can easily pick your back pocket, and you will hardly know it amidst the crowd. Therefore, use the front pocket of your trousers to keep your wallet. Outwit the pickpocket by keeping only those articles in the back pocket that are not very valuable.

2. Multiple wallets and pockets:
You can keep two wallets/handbags rather than just one. Keep your valuables and documents in a wallet in your front pocket or a handbag that you can keep close to you. Keep the lesser valuable products in the 2nd wallet in your back pocket. The pickpocket will be outwitted when he finds that he has taken away some useless items from your back pocket while your valuables are safe. Also, you can use multiple pockets in your bag to hide your valuables and divide your risk.

3. Do not show off:
Do not flash your expensive laptop, phone, jewellery, cash, camera, etc., in a crowded public place. Take them out only when it is necessary.

4. Lock your bags:
Carry small locks with you and lock your bag while moving in a crowded place. The pickpocket will not be able to open it in the middle of the crowd, and you will be safe.

5. Hidden pockets:
Nothing better than a hidden pocket in the front of your trousers or jeans. Pickpockets cannot reach there, no matter how much they try. Also, buy goodquality backpacks and purses with multiple hidden pockets and good build quality. The pickpocket will not be able to determine which pocket carries your valuables.

6. Disguise and hide:
Use smart hacks and disguises to outwit the pickpocket. If you need to carry valuable jewellery while going through a crowded place, hide them in your bag inside a small cardboard box. A ring can go inside a matchstick box. You can take a used burger box if you need a bigger box! Moreover, you can use a file folder to hide your laptop.

7. Carry your backpack facing the front:
While going through a crowded area or using local transport, pull the front portion of the backpack with the chain facing the front. This way, the pickpocket cannot open it from behind you.

These were some hacks you can use to outwit a pickpocket in a crowded place. Apart from these, simply go the digital way! Carry minimum possible documents with you in hard copy. Rather, carry them in soft copy format on your phone or laptop.

In case a pickpocket picks up your wallet, you lose all the important documents along with it. Do not let this happen to your bike insurance policy. Ditch those lengthy insurance papers. Buy the best bike insurance online and save yourself a fortune. You will save money on agent commissions and have a soft copy of the policy on your mobile phone. Overall, it’s a win-win situation for you and us as the insurance provider. The only loser, in this case, will be the pickpocket!

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.

Preferred amongst different economic strata, scooters and bikes help manoeuvre through tight-packed traffic and poorly maintained roads with precision. However, the lack of an effective safety system makes them a risky option, so buying the best two wheeler insurance in India is necessary to protect your two-wheeler against damages and allied losses.

While damages from accidents and maintenance costs of the 2-wheeler are covered by insurance, does the same apply to its additional fittings of glass, fibre, silicon, etc.? Read on to find out if such depreciable parts are covered by your two wheeler insurance policy.

What are depreciable parts?

With consistent use, the value of any vehicle is bound to depreciate. In two-wheelers, the primary function is served by the engine and mechanical parts. However, there are smaller parts made using relatively weaker materials, like silicon, rubber, etc., that inevitably depreciate sooner

Are depreciable parts covered under comprehensive insurance?

A third-party insurance policy is often lacking to provide coverage for depreciable parts. You may have to purchase an add-on cover for several of its excluded items, and depreciable fibre parts are one of the many partial exclusions. Generally, two wheeler insurance only partially covers the repair and replacement costs of the depreciable parts alone. Instead, they cover a marginal percentage of the expense, leaving you to shoulder the burden of the rest of the amount.

The general depreciation cost percentage.
Most two wheeler insurance applies the following depreciated cost percentages on fittings based on their material:

● Fibre: 30%

● Glass: 0%

● Nylon, Plastic, Rubber: 50%

● Battery, Tube, and Tyres: 50%

This implies that the insurer assumes the above-stated depreciation rates to affect the part and only pays the depreciated cost percentage of the repair or maintenance cost. The remaining amount is borne by the insured, which is often a significant portion of the expense.

Additionally, the vehicle’s age also determines the following approximate rate of depreciation:

● Up to 6 months: 0%

● Up to 1 year: 5%

● Up to 2 years: 10%

● Up to 3 years: 15%

● Up to 4 years: 25%

● Up to 5 years: 35%

● Up to 10 years: 40%

● Above ten years: 50%

However, an alternative is available to ensure that your insurance provider bears the expense.

Zero Depreciation Add-on Cover.

In case you have a standalone own-damage insurance or comprehensive insurance, you are eligible to purchase an add-on zero depreciation cover for your two-wheeler. By purchasing this add-on, you can claim the entire cost of repairing or replacing depreciable parts from your insurer.

Check the inclusions of policies when comparing alternatives to find the best two wheeler insurance in India that covers fibre, glass, rubber parts, etc.

Exclusions under zero depreciation add-on. Even after purchasing the add-on to the best two wheeler insurance in India, there remain some exclusions that you will have to bear, including:

● Vehicles older than five years

● Costs of over two claims during the policy period

● Machine-driven breakdown damages

● Damages due to uninsured risks

● Depreciation due to general wear and tear

When to buy zero depreciation add-on. While it is a beneficial facility, consider purchasing a zero depreciation cover if:

● You own a limited edition or premium 2-wheeler

● You live in an accident-prone area with heavy traffic

● Your vehicle is not older than five years

● The cost of individual repairs of depreciable parts is estimated to be greater than the cost of the add-on

Depreciation is an inevitable loss of asset value. Although most insurance covers do not provide for expenses relating to depreciable parts, an add-on zero depreciation cover can convert your preferred insurance into the best two wheeler insurance in India.

Click HERE to buy the best two wheeler 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.

Research states that over one third of vehicles on the road are motorcycles. Found to be cost-effective, easy to ride, and convenient, motorcycles are used extensively in rural and urban areas. They can tackle rough roads and get you to your destination while skillfully getting you out of traffic.

While motorcycles have a significant user base in India, they also have their fair share of problems. The lack of safety is a primary concern with these vehicles. Riding at high speeds on under-maintained roads in a country where traffic rules are not strictly followed has resulted in hundreds of road accidents daily.

This alarming information should be enough to prompt you to purchase online motor insurance if you do not have one already. It is necessary to have insurance to cover any possible losses from damages to you, your vehicle, and third-party property.

While online motor insurance can protect your post-accident damages, here's a quick guide to prevent and tackle motorcycle wobbling when riding at high speeds.

What causes motor cycling wobbling?
Your motorcycle can wobble due to many reasons, even when not at high speed.
1. Defective tyres – Ensure you evaluate the tyres' pressure and build before taking your motorcycle for a ride.
2. Worn equipment – Motorcycles used at the wrong tyre pressures or overused bearings that are worn out are potential causes for wobbling. You must check the parts of your motorcycle and ensure that they are in perfect condition to facilitate long-running and prevent mishaps.
3. Irregular road surface – A sudden change in the road surface in the form of an irregularity such as a pothole while in acceleration is likely to cause your handlebar to shake.
4. Rapid acceleration – If you consecutively accelerate the bike, it cannot keep up with the rapidly changing speed and may wobble violently.
5. Instant slowing – You may also experience shimmying while decelerating from a high speed. This is caused due to the instantaneous changes in speed.

What you shouldn't do when your handlebar wobbles?
If you feel a slight shimmy and are sure it is not due to any motorcycle defect, do not grip harder onto the bar to stabilise it. Continue holding on in the same way and allow it to adjust to the surface. Do not let your eyes stay on the road beneath. Instead, look straight and assess the road ahead and the vehicles around to keep yourself at a safe distance from others.

Tips to ease out the wobble safely:
Assessing the situation is key in such a situation. If it is a well-maintained motorcycle on an irregular patch of road, do not worry. Do not tighten your grip on the handle and allow your bike to balance itself on the surface. The wobble, in this case, would be slight and can be easily overcome by the motorcycle in a few seconds.

If it is a motorcycle issue, the wobble will be much stronger. In such a case, here are some tips for riding out the wobble:
1. Slowly engage the rear brakes – At no cost should you use the front brakes, which will cause an accident. With applying rear brakes, your bike may wobble more at first, but it will slow down.
2. Lean forward – While it may not solve the problem alone, it increases resistance and may help slow down your bike.

These are the only ways to slow down your vehicle. Assess your possible options based on the road ahead. If there is a greater obstacle that your motorcycle is bound to crash into, it is best to abandon the vehicle. Your online motor insurance can cover any damages to your bike. However, if the road ahead is straight, keep your calm and engage the rear brakes slowly. You will eventually be able to decelerate and get out of the wobble and regain control.

While bikes are convenient vehicles, we strongly recommend riding motorcycles at acceptable speeds where you can easily control them to prevent mishaps. Online motor insurance is a must that can prevent any potential financial burden and have your back during emergencies.

Click HERE to buy an online motor insurance policy for your motorcycle.

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.

There are several issues raised when women pillion riders sit in a side-saddle position. Balance is the primary safety concern, amongst others. A significant safety hazard might arise from this posture. The pillion rider must be seated with the two-wheeler balanced between their legs and then place one hand over the driver's shoulder while holding onto the seat with the other.

Side saddling, more often than not, is an unpleasant experience. However, women are inclined towards this positioning because of their choice of clothes or because they feel like they are more in command of their bodies in case of an accident or a crash.

This is an added hassle for long trips and can be dangerous for the following reasons:
● The probability of an accident increases when a female rider moves around and repositions herself.
● Road traffic injury rates increase because of the fall of pillion riders in side-saddle posture.
● Frequently travelling in this position can give rise to severe back and shoulder pains.
● There are numerous ways that rainy weather might cause two-wheeler crashes.

How side-saddle posture affects women?
● With less space for your foot, side saddling can cause muscle soreness and uneasiness.
● Female passengers sitting side-saddle, in particular, typically lack backrests, which causes back and shoulder strain when riding for prolonged periods.

Problems faced:
● The pillion rider cannot equally distribute their body weight across both sides of the two-wheeler. At the same time, in a side-saddle position, the tiniest movements can cause a disbalance, create discomfort to the rider, and may also lead to an accident.
● Women riding as pillion in traditional attire are required to grasp the loose ends of their attire or sit on the loose ends. Both alternatives still provide sufficient space for the clothing to become tangled up in the two-wheeler.
● It is typical for ladies wearing traditional clothing to ride side-saddle because none of the clothing options—saree or skirt—allows for discreet or comfortable seating.
● Additionally, when a piece of long dress fabric gets trapped in a tyre, it increases the probability of various collisions. The two-wheeler will come to a complete stop. As a result, it possibly throws both the driver and the passenger off. The road in front of the pillion riders is only partially visible to them.

A two-wheeler has many advantages, particularly in terms of time savings. More and more people are choosing to travel by two-wheeler, particularly in cities where traffic and congestion are major issues.

However, two-wheelers make up the majority of traffic accidents in India. It increases the possibility of injury to the driver and pillion rider or damage to the two-wheeler. This may result in increased financial distress. That's why it's very important to buy a two wheeler insurance India policy.

It is advisable to avoid travelling in a side-saddle posture, but if it is necessary, then you must take all the precautions needed for a safe ride. Always ensure that you prioritise safety and accordingly use safety measures like a helmet, knee guards, etc., to reduce the impact of accidents if you meet one while riding.

Click HERE to buy two wheeler insurance India 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.

Accidents are a common occurrence these days. They can cause major upheaval and disrupt our entire life at once. Not only does an accident cause financial damage, but it also builds a lot of anxiety, stress, and fear among individuals.

A lot can happen when an accident strikes, whether physical harm or mental discomfort. From road accidents to mishaps at workplaces or homes, unfortunate events can take place anywhere. You need to be cautious and take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself and avoid injuries. In addition, securing yourself with suitable personal accident insurance plans is crucial to prevent financial chaos after such incidents.

A shoulder dislocation is one of the major and most common accidental injuries. It can result from injury due to playing, road accidents, or slipping in the bathroom. Whenever a large blow is delivered to your shoulder, it can result in dislocation.

How do you treat a shoulder dislocation and take care after the injury? Let's find out!

What are the symptoms of shoulder dislocation?

Shoulder dislocation results from heavy damage to the shoulder joint due to the high-intensity impact after an accident. These are a few symptoms to diagnose dislocation:

● Swelling

● Severe pain

● Numbness of arm

● Redness

● Bruising

● Tingling sensation

● Visibly out of place shoulder

How is shoulder dislocation diagnosed?

If you notice the above symptoms, always seek immediate medical help. A doctor diagnoses the condition by asking relevant questions about the symptoms you are experiencing. If it correlates with shoulder dislocation, it is diagnosed accordingly. Muscle relaxers are then administered immediately to the patients to reduce pain.

Once the patient is stable, an MRI or CT scan is undertaken. It helps in revealing any broken bones in the body. Sometimes a dislocation can be diagnosed by simply touching.

How to treat shoulder dislocation?

A shoulder dislocation does not require any surgery. Your doctor can easily diagnose it. It will then be carefully put back in its place to heal. The treatment requires:

● Use of pain medication to ease the pain and discomfort caused by the dislocation. If the pain is severe, a numbing agent can be used to provide relief.

● The shoulder is carefully put back into its designed place by your doctor. It stops severe pain immediately.

● A splint or sling is to be worn for 7-10 days for proper healing of the joint.

● The doctor recommends icing the shoulder every day at least 3-4 times.

● After healing the joint, you need to go to a physiotherapist who will provide you with light exercises for the proper functioning of the joint after injury.

How to prevent shoulder dislocation in the future?

Shoulder dislocation usually occurs while playing sports or an accidental fall. It is advised to wear protective gear while playing any kind of sport to avoid an injury later.

A small mistake today can lead to bigger problems tomorrow. An injury to any body part can cause long-term problems in the future. The shoulder is an important body part that should be protected at all costs. Regardless of everything, you should know about personal accident insurance plans in advance to avoid exhausting your money on treatments and medications.

Click HERE to know more about personal accident 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 festive season is just around the corner! With dresses and outfits being shopped, everyone is excited for the busy times of the year, whether it is a festival or family celebrations. With all this preparation, one must not neglect their skincare.

From the harsh sun rays to constant dust, our skin goes through significant damage daily. All these factors eventually lead to pigmentation. Many people get deeply insecure about spots and areas of the skin that are pigmented. This holiday season, put your best foot forward in skincare and glow with pride!

This blog gives you some tips for dealing with pigmentation and being occasion-ready!

Chemical methods:
It has been a long-held Indian belief that anything chemical harms the skin. While that may be true in certain situations, if used correctly and in the right quantity, these products can give an instantly brighter look to your skin so that you look flawless on any occasion.

1. Exfoliate:
With the daily pollution and sun exposure, it's no wonder our skin looks dull and dreary. The main reason for dull, pigmented skin is this layer of dust and dead skin cells that develop under the skin. Scrubbing and exfoliating is a great way to eliminate this layer and give you glowing, spotless skin. However, get a scrub for your skin type to avoid further damage.

2. Extraction and hydration:
A small, vacuum-like product has recently been available on the shelves of cosmetic stores and has revolutionised extraction. Gently massage your skin with this vacuum to clear all debris and remove all the whiteheads and blackheads from deep within your pores. Use intense moisturisers after this process to retain the skin's natural hydration, and watch how it rewards you with a brighter look.

3. Vitamin C:
Did you know that vitamin C is the key to glowing skin? Fruits like lemons, citrus, strawberries, and blueberries will lead your way to good skin and deal organically with pigmentation. These fruits have an abundance of antioxidants, adding an instant radiant shine to your skin.

4. Sunscreen:
The primary reason for pigmentation is sun exposure. The sun emits harmful UV rays that kill skin cells and causes those dark spots. Liberally apply sunscreen each time you leave the house to have healthier skin in the long term.

Now let's look at a few home remedies to get visible results naturally:

Although artificial methods can help to a large extent to improve your skin, there's nothing that beats lifestyle changes for long-lasting clear, and glowing skin.

1. A good sleep:
The body heals and repairs itself when you get your 08 hours of sleep each night. Often, we overestimate our body's ability to stay awake and pull several all-nighters. This leaves the skin feeling dull and rough. On the other hand, when you're well rested, there's a visible glow on your face that comes from the collagen production and blood flow while you sleep. So, kick back, relax and get your beauty sleep, especially before going for a function!

2. Shorter showers:
A long, warm shower is relaxing to the body and mind, but it has the opposite effect on the skin. It strips the skin of the natural oils produced and can leave your skin dry. The best kind of shower for the skin is a cold or lukewarm one that lasts about 10-12 mins.

3. Honey and saffron:
This combination is the best for hydrating your skin, leaving it feeling soft and fluffy

Take adequate rest, bring discipline to your eating habits, and wash your face regularly, especially after coming home from outside. The good health of your stomach also plays a vital role in maintaining the freshness of your skin.

Your skin greatly depends on your lifestyle and how you maintain your inner health. Have regular full-body check-ups to improve your overall health. Research the best online health insurance for optimum protection and be assured of the expenses involved. Your skin is your personal outfit, and keeping it shining is paramount to having a confident look and being occasion-ready.

Click HERE to know more about online health 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.

Riding a motorcycle is one of the most ethereal experiences that you can encounter in your life. Be it a crowded market or the lush green valleys of the Himalayas, a bike ride is perfect for every occasion. The thrill, excitement, and adrenaline rush that a bike ride gives you will always be unmatched.

But did you know that riding a bike can have health benefits besides getting an adrenaline boost? Surprised, aren't you? Let's find out the different health benefits you can have from riding motorcycles.

1. Builds core strength:
Whenever you ride a bike, you need to maintain the correct position. For longer bike rides, the body's posture must be maintained. It ultimately contributes to greater core strength and flexibility.
You must work on your core to stay upright on your ride. Your body posture maintains the correct shape and form while riding a bike. It is a great exercise for you.

2. Strengthens thigh muscles:
This is one of the hidden benefits of riding a motorcycle. If you're experiencing any issue with your knees or thighs, it can easily be resolved by riding a motorcycle. When you ride a motorcycle, you need to apply a lot of strength on your knees and thighs without straining them too much. A little movement can do them well. Riding a motorcycle is no less than a physical exercise that your legs necessarily need.

3. Boosts neck strength:
If you spend a lot of time on your phone or laptop, you will likely develop neck problems and a painful strain in due time. The best way to tackle it can be by riding a motorcycle. It helps in boosting your neck strength and eliminates the risk of developing a strain or cramp there.

4. Burns calories:
When you ride a motorcycle, you burn calories. When you are in the driver's seat of a motorcycle, you are likely to put in a lot of effort in riding the bike. Your entire body is in an active state with your senses alert, which demands more energy to maintain coordination. This can aid in burning calories. You can burn up to 50 calories by simply riding a bike. This is not possible in the case of other vehicles.

5. Boosts mood:
Although there are numerous benefits of riding a motorcycle, it also greatly impacts your mental health. It boosts your mood and uplifts you. You can cheer yourself up and feel relaxed by setting out on a fulfilling bike ride. It stimulates the happy hormones in your body. It is great for people who are suffering from depression or anxiety. It is an effective way to lift your mood and make you feel better.

These are the numerous health benefits of riding a motorcycle. It not only helps build your physical health but also positively affects your mental health. Apart from the convenience of commuting, it is also important in staying motivated and in the pink of health. If bike riding is your comfort, securing it should be your responsibility. You should buy bike insurance in advance regardless of where you ride your motorcycle. It will add a financial safety net to cover the hefty expenses of damages to your bike.

So, invest in comprehensive bike insurance and enjoy multiple benefits at an attractive premium.

Click HERE to purchase the best 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.