GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

The demand for passenger cars has continued to grow each year due to economic growth, the production of affordable vehicles, and driving convenience for the public.

However, with the rise in vehicle ownership, an inevitable increase in traffic and stricter rule enforcement have followed. It is essential to follow the rules to protect the passengers and the vehicle. For instance, purchasing a car insurance cover is one of the first things that you must do after buying a car to protect the vehicle from damages and reduce the financial burden on the owner. The car insurance price in India is reasonably set depending on usage, model, and engine cc and covers any contingent damages.

It is also essential to follow the rules laid down by the RTO. Often, car owners get their windows tinted, a practice restricted by the authorities. This blog discusses the issue and the consequences of not following the regulation.

What are window tints, and why are they needed?

If you are unaware of the term, it may be because your car does not come with pre-existing tinted windows. Placing a thin laminated film on the inside or outside of windows is common in automobiles and glass buildings, which results in tinted windows.

The thin barrier prevents harsh sun rays from entering the room or the vehicle, thereby minimising the heating. Since sunlight is known to penetrate glass easily, it not only heats the interior but may also cause damage to the seats or furnishings. Apart from sun protection, it provides the added benefit of privacy by minimising visibility from outside.

To sum up, tinted windows are a beneficial addition to cars since they protect the car's interiors from heating up, reduce the risk of damage due to direct exposure to sunlight and also provide passengers privacy.

Why does the RTO restrict the use of tinted films?

The RTO only allows a percentage of tinting that is permitted on laminated films for use on car windows. By following the limits, car owners can safely and legally protect their cars from the heat.

The significant risk of using tinted films is the reduced visibility to drivers. Driving requires the complete focus of the driver and the proper functioning of all his senses to ensure safety on the roads. Depending on the tint percentage, these films can severely hinder the driver's visibility and lead to accidents.

Are window tints illegal?

According to the judgement passed in 2012, the RTO has approved sun control films on windows that provide a minimum of 70% visual light transmission on the front and rear glasses. The side glasses must have minimum visibility of 50%. Some automobile manufacturers also provide the option of installing RTO-approved car glass films.

Penalty on tinted car windows:

If you install tinted films that are not following the RTO's guidelines, you may be fined INR 100 for your first violation. If found for the second time, the fine increases to INR 300. The subsequent breach is fined INR 300, along with the cancellation of the driver's licence. While tinted windows are not illegal, it is necessary to abide by the rules established by the authority to prevent one from getting into legal trouble.

Car insurance is a crucial investment tool that offers comprehensive coverage to the owner if the car gets damaged in an accident. Purchase one for your car by browsing through different plans online and looking for the best car insurance price in India.

But, not following the RTO-issued guidelines on tinted windows or road safety may cause you to encounter the rejection of your car insurance claim. Stay alert and avoid yourself from landing into any trouble.

Click HERE to check out for the best car insurance price 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.

Nearly 138 crores of the Indian population adhering to stringent traffic rules can seem daunting, but the benefits are surely rewarding. It is imperative to understand that these rules are in place to ensure the safety of citizens and exercise their rights freely without causing inconvenience to others.

Even with so many rules and regulations, many people face harrowing accidents and unfortunate defilement while travelling. It can be costly to deal with the expenses involved after an accident. With accurate knowledge and proper planning, one can counter these challenges with the seamless advantages of an insurance policy.

A motor insurance claim is a compensation provided to the insured by a motor insurance company. The compensation is paid for any damage caused to the insured's vehicle. The policyholder must pay a monthly premium to avail of the insurance benefits and get compensation for damage done to the vehicle and even to third-party.

Motor insurance is an efficient safety net to safeguard your asset and prevent your finances from draining behind the repair and maintenance work. It is important to keep your motor insurance updated and look for its renewal date. Never miss out on your motor insurance renewal. You can conveniently do online motor insurance renewal to save time and avoid your policy from lapsing.

Let's look at various types of motor car insurance claims available along with their requirements.

1. Cashless insurance claim:
This settlement process is the most convenient. You don't have to worry about expenses or vent your pockets for the repair work. The motor insurance company will clear all the bills associated with the respective vehicle, thereby giving you cashless benefits.

2. Reimbursement insurance claim:
You have to foot the bills by yourself, and the responsibility of filing for reimbursement is upon you. It can be daunting to keep track of all paperwork of repair, original bills etc. The documents required for claiming insurance should be thoroughly checked and filed accordingly. The claim can remain deficient if the necessary instructions are not followed.

3. Third-party claim:
This claim is enforced to seek coverage to the third-party liabilities. If any third party suffers damage from the insurer, it should be reported to the nearby police station and the motor insurance company. If the roles are reversed, the individual seeking claim must provide the vehicle and owner details needed to claim the insurance.

4. Own damage claim:
This type of claim is filed after the insured's vehicle is damaged in an unfortunate incident. The motor insurance company should be immediately notified where the verification and assessment of the damage will be done before paying the repair cost. The insurer must submit the required documents if a reimbursement claim is needed.

5. Theft claims:
This is raised when a car gets stolen. The initial step is to notify the police, the RTO, and the motor insurance company. Documents required to claim must be maintained and provided along with the car keys.

The following documentation is necessary as deciphered by the insurer:

1. In the case of accidents:

● The claim form with signature

● Copy of motor insurance policy

● Car registration certificate

● Driving licence

● FIR copy

● The bill estimated for damage repair

● Repair bill and payment receipts

● Vehicle inspection address (if no garage is mentioned)

2. In the case of car theft:

● Copy of insurance policy

● RTO theft declaration

● Police FIR copy

● Subrogation letter

● Car registration certificate and book

● Previous insurance policy details

● Any car-related items such as keys, warranties, booklets, etc.

● Forms 28, 29, 30 and 35

● RTO official intimation for theft

● Claim discharge voucher with revenue stamp and signature

3. In the case of the third-party damage:

● Claim form signed and filed

● Police FIR copy

● Driver’s licence

● Registration certificate and related documents

● A vehicle's original registration copy with the stamp

The police and the insurer must be notified about the mishap within 24 hours. The claiming process can become effortless and less complicated if the necessary documents are prepared beforehand. The owner must evaluate the entire situation before claiming anything for their vehicle. Every legal documentation in motor car insurance must be taken care of. Regularly schedule your online motor insurance renewal before the due date so you can avail maximum benefits and safeguard yourself by being a responsible citizen.

Click HERE to get online motor insurance renewal and protect your vehicle.

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 is no denying the importance of having the most comprehensive and cost-effective motor insurance policy that fits your needs and finances. Though in all of this, let's not forget that the insurance policy's premium can be affected by several things, natural disasters being among the most significant.

Since many readers seem to lack even the most fundamental understanding of how large floods might affect the cost of your car insurance, that's what we'll be discussing today.

When your vehicle is damaged in a major flood:

The first thing you should do after a flood is contacting your motor insurance company. They should make the necessary arrangements to restore your vehicle. Floods affect many people and their vehicles all at once, so you'll want to act quickly. It's important to file your claim immediately; the longer you wait, the more damage you'll likely incur. However, remember that major floods can make insurance companies slow down as the other drivers may be filing similar claims at the same time. This makes the claims process difficult for insurance companies.

If your insurance company provides a claim based on a flood, you may see your premium increase or lose on the NCB (No Claim Bonus) benefits. Most insurance companies won't increase the premium immediately, and also it may take longer for the claim to be cleared.

Methods used to calculate flood-risk zones:

Flood-risk zones are areas prone to frequent floods. These zones are often identified in the form of maps. There are many ways to determine a flood zone, and each type has its own conditions.

Flood insurance premiums are based on the probability that a vehicle will be damaged due to flood. The probability is usually between 0.2% and 1.0%. The risk to a vehicle's value depends on the location within the flood zone and the severity of the flood.

Effects of large flood events on premiums:

In the last decade, weather-related catastrophes have increased in frequency and severity, posing considerable challenges for the insurance industry. And the effects of climate change are expected to accelerate this upward trend, further affecting insurers' bottom lines.

Large flood events can cause motor insurance companies to reduce their payouts by reducing the number of claims they pay. Insurers also limit their payouts by restricting coverage for high-risk events. This, in turn, increases pressure on governments to invest in flood prevention and to provide compensation to those affected.

Floods are events that cause significant damage to vehicles, from expensive repairs to a total loss. They reduce the vehicle's value, and only comprehensive motor insurance can help you deal the best with these losses. If you reside in a flood-prone area, you need to consult your insurance company to see if they can cover the cost of repairing the vehicle. You may even consider buying add-ons like Zero Depreciation cover, Non-Claim Bonus (NCB), Engine protection cover, Roadside Assistance cover, and more to further lower the impact of flood damage and provide broader coverage. If you live in a flood-prone area, then you always need to be on your toes and up-to-date with safe and reliable financial instruments like insurance to make damages appear less daunting.

Click HERE to buy comprehensive motor insurance for your car.

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.

Financial education is a topic being discussed like never before. What was previously seen as a taboo is now being openly discussed in live conversations and on various platforms on the internet by an audience of different age groups. As modern-day parenting involves breaking down finances by providing the privilege and freedom money brings, children are not far left behind.

Insurance is a fundamental component of sound financial management, which must be introduced to kids early. You can set an example by discussing different insurances with your child in simple words.

Why should you discuss insurance with kids?
You may wonder why discussing insurance with kids is of significance. Simply put, insurance is a mechanism that provides safety cover and teaches budgeting and saving, which are essential for efficient money management. People who have not been exposed to insurance at an early stage tend to take it for granted and realise its importance after reaching their 30s or 40s, when insurance providers hike up premiums, making insurance expensive.
By teaching your children the benefit of insurance, you are making them aware of contingencies, being prudent, and taking covers to monetarily protect themselves from any damage to their property or health. When taught at such an impressionable stage, concepts tend to stick for a lifetime and help in making conscious decisions relating to money.

How to bring up insurance with kids?
Insurance is a complex yet essential instrument that provides safety against contingencies in the future. While necessary, it wasn't easy to understand and pick one for your needs before digitalisation. However, the internet's plethora of resources makes it accessible to all. For example, you can buy your two wheeler insurance online India and show your children the complete process and its benefits.

1. Make use of your kid's prised possessions to pique their interest
Drawing and retaining a child's attention is challenging. However, you can easily explain different insurance types to children using what they hold dear- toys. Insurance protects what matters most from unintended damage. Use this concept to get your child's attention. Insurance discussions with children do not have to be formal and provide the best results when introduced naturally.
Playtime provides the best opportunity to introduce insurance. Using imaginary scenarios and functional characters, you can use them to explain the unpredictability of the future and the need for a safety net.

2. Use of digital resources:
Recently, resources like online courses have seen a rapid increase in demand. Similarly, online creators on platforms cater to simplifying finance for non-specialists, and a specific niche for kids is also developing. Since kids of this generation occupy the maximum screen time, it becomes easy to introduce financial habits in uncomplicated terms through visuals and digital content.

3. Involve your child in making financial decisions:
Choosing where to spend your money is essential to building an ample savings amount and helps determine the individual's financial acumen. Once you have introduced the topics to your child, give them a weekly or monthly allowance of a minimal sum that is enough to purchase a small value item like a snack, and then ask them where they would prefer to direct the balance amount.
You can guide them to invest their money to safeguard their valuable assets like their two-wheelers by researching themselves and investing in the two wheeler insurance online India. Let them know the wonders insurance can have in one's life due to its seamless benefits. This way, your child will gain practical exposure in a controlled environment.

Financial literacy is not obtained overnight and is a healthy discussion that should be initiated at the earliest stage possible. It allows for a greater sense of responsibility in children. The best way to inculcate this habit is through regular discussions about savings and managing wants and needs.

You might give your child a pretty bike or a scooter once they cross 18 years of age. Still, your next step should be advising and motivating them to self-understand the importance of crucial financial investments like insurance. They can start by using the internet for their analysis and learn to invest in two wheeler insurance online India not just to safeguard their asset but more to learn the power of smart investing!

Click HERE to buy two wheeler 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.

In a country like India, a two-wheeler is one of the convenient options for commuting. It is affordable and preferred by the majority of people. As the cost of fuel prices is soaring high, two-wheeler has become people's favourite. Most people in India prefer a two-wheeler for all their travel needs.

However, an average Indian family consists of a minimum of three members, which makes it challenging to travel by road on a two-wheeler. A two-wheeler is designed to keep the needs of two people in mind, and using it for triple riding can be dangerous. When three people travel in a single vehicle, the risks increase manifold.

In this article, we will discuss why triple riding in India is a violation and should be avoided.

Furthermore, you should always have 2 wheeler insurance to help you tide over unwanted circumstances. It will ensure the safety of your vehicle at all times and prevent it from any financial harm during emergencies.

Why is triple riding prohibited in India?
Whenever roads are heavily congested by traffic, things ought to get complicated. India is no exception. It is the second most populated country that still lags in road planning and spacing. This leads to numerous road accidents daily. Henceforth, to tackle this problem, the Indian government has come up with a set of stringent traffic rules and regulations, including triple riding.

The main traffic rules related to triple riding via a two-wheeler are:
● Only two people, including the driver, should be allowed to sit on a two-wheeler.
● Both driver and pillion rider should be wearing helmets while riding.

If these two strict rules are not followed:
● You will be liable to pay a fine of up to INR 1000 to the traffic police. The fine rate can vary according to the state you live in.
● You may be prohibited from holding your driving license for up to three months. This means that you will not be able to drive around at all.

Why should triple riding be avoided?
Tripling has become extremely common in India. It is as common as jumping traffic lights or not wearing a helmet. Most people do not seem to care about the repercussions when they consider tripling.
Additionally, the bikers who opt for tripling are not only putting their lives at risk but also endangering the lives of others on the road. A two-wheeler is meant for two people and is mechanically incompatible with bearing the weight of three. This can damage the vehicle in the long run or cause problems at any time.
Mostly young riders of 18-25 years of age are spotted triple riding. They put their lives in danger without being aware of the traffic rules and the severity of the offense.

Triple riding is a regular sight in India. The government should make strict rules and levy heavy fines on riders who break the traffic rules. People try to overlook the consequences of tripling and consider it as a fair option for commuting, especially to travel short distances. Know your responsibility and act wisely when riding a 2 wheeler. Also, you should have 2 wheeler insurance so that there is no financial loss that you have to bear if you meet with an accident.

Click HERE to buy 2 wheeler insurance to keep your vehicle protected at all times.

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 is nothing as fascinating as travelling, which allows you to explore new and exciting places, meet new people, identify their culture, try diverse food, and discover local music.

As a traveller, you always want to have a travel experience that is hassle-free and free from any problems. The more problems you encounter on your trip, the less enjoyable it becomes. Tourist traps are one of the major issues that tourists face on their trips. Many scammers and fraudsters roam at these tourist places, trying to scam travellers. This can make your journey unpleasant and uncomfortable.

To avoid such a problem, you should always stay alert and follow certain things that will help you dodge tourist traps. The first layer of safety can be ensured by researching and investing in the best general insurance plans.

The tips and tricks to help you deal with tourist traps are as follows.

1. Blend in well:
You must not look or do the deeds of a tourist. This will make you stand out from the crowd. In this way, you're likely to fall prey to tourist traps. To avoid this, you need to blend well with your surroundings. If it is a new place that you have not visited earlier, do some research in advance. Be aware of the dressing style of the locales and dress accordingly. You should always dress in outfits to camouflage your surroundings and avoid unwanted attention.

2. Go local:
Instead of relying on your guidebook, go for a local option for dining in the city. The fancy and posh restaurants that your guidebook and brochure suggest are often too pricey and not up to the mark. They offer mediocre meals at high rates. You are likely to spend a fortune and then end up with nothing. Hence, it is recommended that you dine locally at cafes and restaurants. Explore nearby areas and discover hidden gems that will satiate your taste buds.

3. Go during off-season:
Although the tourist season is attractive, it has its set of worries. It will leave you with more headaches than you can fathom. From spending more money to getting bad deals, the prime holiday season is a waste of time. If you want to explore a place in peace, then go during the off-season. You will also be saved from tourist traps!

4. Use public transport:
Instead of opting for cabs or taxis, take the train, subway, or bus. You are likely to avoid tourist traps this way. It will also ensure you save a ton of money when taking the bus. If it is possible, walk to nearby distances. There's nothing as fascinating as exploring a city on foot.

5. Don't trust strangers:
When you're in a new city, a large number of people will want to interact with you. They will offer to take your luggage, give you directions, or even offer you a taxi or auto ride. However, you need to be extremely careful in such situations. It is often advised not to interact with such people as they're always looking for a chance to earn more money from fellow tourists. They can also charge a hefty fee for their services or even run away with your luggage in worse cases.

With this being said, you must take all the possible measures when you travel to a new place. You can easily fall into a tourist trap and lose your money and belongings. As a traveller, you would always want to carry good memories rather than stress when you head home from a destination. Invest in the best general insurance plans in advance to avoid problems during your trip.

Click HERE to buy the best general insurance plans and protect yourself while travelling.

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

What is the first image that comes to your mind when you hear of outdoor adventures? The most popular thought associated with the idea is likely to be camping, an offbeat experience that tastefully connects nature and adventure.

Camping is a solo or group adventure popularised by the West that involves outdoor overnight stays in unfamiliar terrains to enjoy the beauty of untouched nature. While it is an experience like no other, camping does involve a lot of effort and adjustment to make the stay enjoyable.

Camping has always been a top choice for avid travellers and adventure enthusiasts, but a new activity that interests everyone is glamping. It is a perfect introduction to camping that brings together luxury to the wilderness, making the experience pleasant and more premium.

Read on to find all about the trending activity, where you can find glamping sites in India, and whether it is covered under general insurance plans.

What is glamping?
If you need a break from your hectic life and wish to explore the wild without putting in too much effort, glamping is the ideal outdoor activity for you. It is a simple mix of glamour and camping. Depending on your budget, you can opt for a high-end camping stay set amidst a picturesque outdoor setting.

Are there any risks associated with glamping?
When you look past the glamour, there are several risks associated with glamping, just like camping. You may damage your property or glamping equipment, lose your luggage or face health issues on the trip. We strongly advise you to contact your insurance provider to confirm what damages are covered in your general insurance plan and clarify your queries to ensure that you have a cover to bank on in case of any unfortunate incidents.

Best locations in India to experience glamping:
Glamping is an activity that garners the interest of young and old alike. But where exactly in India can you enjoy this adventure? Here are the best locations for a quick glamping trip.

1. Jaisalmer:
Also known as Golden City, the city in Rajasthan with expansive deserts is an excellent place to go glamping. With luxury camps pitched in the desert, it makes for an experience like no other. Glamping companies also tie up with other entertainment providers to provide sightseeing and local experiences as a part of the package, making the trip worth the price.

2. Ladakh:
Ladakh makes for an exquisite glamping location. You can enjoy the rustic beauty of Ladakh from your luxurious tents without making any compromises. Although placed in the middle of nowhere, the tents have all the amenities to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable.

3. Goa:
The popular tourist destination for a quick getaway is unsurprisingly great for glamping. With beaches, moderate temperatures, and top-notch entertainment, Goa is the best place to kick back and relax. While there are several luxury tent providers, you can decide to have a minimalistic glamping trip by using your car as your tent.

4. Kerala:
Kerala's pleasant temperature, idyllic scenery, and slow pace of life set a great mood for glamping trips. The vast range of biodiversity in the state provides an opportunity to engage in activities like trekking, sightseeing, and boating. Known for its hospitality, you will have a relaxing glamping trip in Kerala.

5. Darjeeling:
Sprawling tea estates, widespread greenery, and long trails in the thickets of the forest make Darjeeling an exotic vacation hotspot. A glamping trip in Darjeeling is peaceful and gives time to reflect and escape the everyday bustle of life.

The topographic diversity of India makes most regions great for glamping. Based on your preferences, you can escape the mundane activities of life and take a quick trip to a coast side, hill, or desert and enjoy a rustic break.

Irrespective of the location, safety is a factor that must always be considered while planning for a trip. Investing in safety means investing in happiness. The best way to do so is by ensuring that you and your fellow travellers have general insurance plans that cover any potential accidents.

Click HERE to buy the best general insurance plans to make your glamping trip safe and more enjoyable.

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.

River cruises are one of the best ways to explore the country's backwaters and serene pockets with a mesmerising experience. Although it makes for an offbeat vacation, you will carry a bag full of memories on your way home. If you are into nature photography, this vacation will be a haven for you.

From the lush green surroundings of Kerala to the unexplored islands of Andaman, there's a lot to explore and discover as you go on your river cruise.

*Pro-tip
It is advisable to stay safe and secure in your journey, as you'll always be amidst waters. Buy an insurance policy online before you embark on your journey.

Let us walk you through all the possible travel destinations available via river and sea cruises in India.

1. Sunderbans:
Located in West Bengal, Sundarbans form the largest mangrove forest in the world. It is not only large in terms of area but also very captivating as the river cruise takes you through the pleasant delta of the river Brahmaputra. You'll be bestowed with the most picturesque landscapes when you undertake this journey. You're likely to spot numerous flora and fauna as you explore the waters of Brahmaputra. You're likely to spot monkeys, crocodiles, leopards, wild hogs, kingfishers, and Bengal tigers, among others.

2. Kerala:
The river cruises serve as one of the most exciting ways to explore the heart of Kerala. Being a state that is blessed with lush green surroundings and pristine backwaters, Kerala is a haven for nature lovers. While on a backwater cruise, you will feel closer to nature. You will also get a chance to look closely at the state's influential culture. The cruise guarantees you the journey of a lifetime. You can enjoy the fantastic surroundings of Kerala in comfort, luxury, and space. You will also be able to try authentic South Indian food on the cruise.

3. Goa:
There are many ways to enjoy Goa's fun and frolic life, but you must've never thought about spending time on a river cruise. Goa is bestowed with the beautiful Mandovi River, which can be an ideal place for a river cruise. The atmosphere on the cruise is always upbeat and lively. While you immerse yourself in Goan delicacies, you'll be presented with the scenic landscapes of Goa. It is a joy in itself.

4. Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
Andaman and Nicobar Islands is one of India's most stunning places to visit, allowing tourists to explore the unknown. The sea cruises of the islands are grand, elegant, and classy in every possible way. You will be bestowed with naturally green, serene, and exciting surroundings. Apart from that, the cruise is also well-adapted to fulfil all your needs. The amenities present on the cruise are world-class and adapted to the varied tastes of travellers.

5. Assam:
North-east India is a hidden gem of the country blessed with breathtaking views. The Brahmaputra River runs far and wide in this area, allowing tourists to explore it on a river cruise. A river cruise will open doors to several scenic locations like Kaziranga National Park, Majuli, and Guwahati. It is one of the best ways to bask in the glory of Assam.

Vacation cruises are one of the most delightful ways to explore India. It will allow you to look at the surroundings closely and collect lifetime memories. However, it is suggested that you always ensure your safety before setting out on a journey. Buy insurance policy online while booking your tickets, and be rest assured of your belongings and travel safety.

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.