GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Insurance provides the safety net required to protect the financial integrity of your personal and professional needs. If you are in the business of sending or receiving physical goods from one destination to another, insuring your goods and business interests inevitably becomes your priority. 

Therefore, the simple answer to whether or not you need marine insurance is 'yes'. Read along to understand why that is so: 

What is marine insurance?

‘Marine’ insurance is a colloquially used term for any kind of transport insurance, not just restricted to waterways. Whether your cargo or goods are moving over land, railways, or a combination of multiple transport modes, marine insurance provides cover for any loss or damage to your goods while in transit from source to the point of delivery.

Marine insurance can be purchased by sellers, buyers, and even financiers of the goods. So, whether you’re a small trader, moving materials interstate or a manufacturer sourcing raw materials or a large import/export house, marine insurance can protect your stock against any unforeseen eventualities.

Why marine insurance?

Depending on the mode of transport, distance, size, and value, your cargo could take days or months to get from one point to another. In the interim period, your goods are at the risk of damage due to accidents, improper packaging/ storage, seepage of water, mishandling by personnel and natural disasters such as floods, fire, and storms. They could also be lost due to theft, piracy, or be lost at sea. The carrier, in most cases, cannot be held liable for any damage or loss either. Hence, it becomes imperative to opt for additional security.

All natural calamities and human errors can be covered by marine insurance. There are various types of policies such as valued, unvalued, floating, time, voyage, etc. that you can choose from basis your needs, irrespective of whether the cargo is moving for domestic trade or across international waters.

Magma, for example, provides comprehensive coverage through its Marine Cargo Open Insurance Policy. Whether you are sending a small parcel via airmail or a huge consignment via cargo, Magma has your peace of mind covered.

In some instances, taking marine insurance may be obligatory basis the terms of the shipping or business contract. This helps bring in clarity over service delivery and safeguards the interest of all parties. 

Alternatively, the insurance helps you gain a lot more control over the jurisdiction and language if in case the need for a claim arises. Imagine dealing with an insurer based out of Japan speaking a language alien to you while you are trying to get the information and paperwork through. It can be both time-consuming and exasperating.

In conclusion, marine insurance is extremely pocket-friendly. The premium depends on the value of the goods and the mode of transport. For a fraction of the cost of the shipment, you can secure your peace of mind. In case the need for a claim arises, a dependable insurer like us is just a phone call away.

We all know that setting up a business and buying an asset takes a lot of time and toiling, it may be a car, your dream house or simply a household item.

For many, work and business is a doppelganger of their personal identity. Your office could have cash, valuables, goods and raw material, critical documents or intellectual property that in an event of a theft or burglary can leave you financially crippled. 

Here’s what we have figured out through our truth lens!

Even though the crime rate in India is on the decline, it is still quite high at 379 crimes per lakh of the population as per data from NCRB (2016). Most urban business complexes now have better security systems and more personnel on board; however, most perpetrators in cases of thefts are known to be familiar faces. This makes it imperative for businesses to add a layer of security with a comprehensive burglary and theft insurance plan.

For the sake of insurance, theft and burglary are two separate categories, where burglary, unlike a theft, also accounts for forcible/ violent entry and/or armed robbery that puts the people, place and other valuables at risk. 

Why is securing yourself against theft and burglary important?

A comprehensive protection plan can be purchased for your home, office, factory, warehouse, etc. The compensation from the insurer covers for any item that is stolen from the insured premises and also makes good any loss or damage caused to the premises on account of the said theft or burglary.

Any stock of goods, furniture, computers and electronics and other assets within the business premises are covered too. In fact Magma Burglary Insurance Policy goes a step further and provides for reasonable coverage to clean up the premises and move any debris from the premises to the closest disposal site. It also reimburses for making good critical documents such as agreements and confidential business documents, on which sometimes the registration and stamp duty itself can run in to lakhs of rupees.

If you fear a repeated attempt at the theft or burglary, Magma burglary policy also covers for the cost of temporary protection incurred for the safety of your employees and assets.

The first thing you need to do is to ensure that there are reasonable safety and security systems in place so as to minimize the risk. This will also have a direct impact on the insurance premium you will incur. The better your preparation, the lower the premium. The insurance will not cover for any loss arising out of an ‘inside job’ unless through forceful means.

Review your insurance requirements periodically, especially if you have different value of cash, goods/ raw material moving in and out of your office, new equipment/ machinery, critical R&D technology, etc. The value of your stocks and assets have a direct correlation to your premium.

The cost of insurance is a small price to pay for ensured business continuity, protecting your family and employees and securing your peace of mind.

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.

As the world steers towards sustainable mobility solutions, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a promising answer to the environmental concerns associated with traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. India, too, is making significant strides in the EV market, with the government's commitment to promote electric mobility.
India's ambition to electrify its transportation system is evident in its National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) and Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) schemes. These initiatives aim to encourage EV adoption by offering incentives, tax breaks, and promoting charging infrastructure development.
As more consumers switch to EVs, the focus on battery technology and its maintenance becomes pivotal after all the battery is at the heart of this technology revolution. And with the growth in this market, there arises a need for a tailored insurance solution as well.
However, many motor insurance companies still do not provide any specialized coverage for EV and HEV batteries, resulting in a void in this fast-developing sector. However, forward-thinking insurance companies are recognizing the opportunity and starting to offer specialized coverage for batteries.
In response to this demand, Magma HDI General Insurance has taken a proactive step by introducing a product: "Battery Secure Add On" This specialized insurance offering is designed to address the unique requirements of electric and hybrid vehicles.
What sets "Battery Secure Add On" apart is its comprehensive coverage of critical EV/HEV components, with a primary focus on the battery. This coverage extends to repair and replacement costs arising from various scenarios. For instance,

• If the battery is damaged as a result of an unexpected power surge while charging or Experiences consequential harm from a short circuit or water ingress, "Battery Secure Add-on” has it covered.

• Moreover, " Battery Secure Add On" goes beyond battery coverage alone. It recognizes that electric vehicles encompass a range of specialized components that differ from traditional combustion-engine vehicles.

• This insurance product also safeguards other electric-specific elements, such as the electric motor, ensuring holistic protection for the entire EV system.

Click HERE to learn more about the product.