GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Being an entrepreneur brings a lot of risk to the table. Insuring your business against liabilities and risks is a wise consideration. Business insurance can help a company protect itself from unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters, theft, unintentional injuries, etc. It is of utmost importance for a business owner to be able to assess the risks involved with their line of work. They should consider the needs of their business so that one mishap does not wipe out their entire life's work.

Irrespective of whether you are just setting up or are an established player in your niche, specific policies like public liability insurance in India are essential to cover your business from lawsuits and compensations.

Here are some kinds of insurance that can help cushion the liabilities your business may face in uncertain conditions.

1. Property insurance policies:
For your small start-up business, you spend most of its capital on inventory. In the case of damage to the property, it is tough for businesses to replace or repair damaged property. Some companies never recover from this. So, it is paramount to insure the physical location, tools, and other industry-specific equipment against damages.
However, most property insurance policies don't protect businesses from natural disasters like cyclones and floods, so it's best to talk to your insurance company about all the policy clauses beforehand.

2. General liability insurance:
This insurance helps you bear the costs of legal fees and other liability claims arising from third-party injuries due to your product or business. The entire cost of any legal proceedings that arise from a lawsuit against the company has to be paid by the owner. Whether working in an office setting or remotely, you should be insured against this possibility as it can significantly impact your finances. Research public liability insurance in India before choosing the best policy for your needs.

3. Worker's compensation insurance:
Worker's compensation insurance is mandatory in most cases. This policy is necessary in case of employee injury, death, or illness. It also covers the legal fees if the deceased's family decides to sue the business. Slip and fall injuries may also happen within your premises, and you might have to incur considerable hits to your business by paying off medical costs.

4. Professional liability insurance:
Professional liability comes under the same realm as general liability insurance but has a different use. This insurance is solely for errors or lack of proper service and is also called errors and omissions insurance. It covers the financial repercussions of negligence on your part in rendering any services. However, this policy is usually industry-specific, so it is wise to take expert advice from your insurance company for your specific profession.

5. Business interruption insurance:
In the event of any natural disaster or other unforeseen situations like a riot or a strike in the work area, a business cannot continue uninterrupted. This results in a loss of income due to the stoppage of the ordinary course of a business. In this case, business interruption insurance comes in handy, as it compensates the company for its lack of income in the time it takes for them to get back on its feet again.

6. Commercial vehicle insurance:
Any company that uses vehicles for commercial purposes should insure their vehicles against any damage caused by unforeseen accidents, fire, or theft. This is mandatory in India, but you should research your options to get more comprehensive coverage.

Buying insurance, especially public liability insurance in India, is an essential step in any business owner's journey. Research all your options thoroughly and make an informed decision. Take account of all the risks and accordingly prepare a strategy to mitigate them without sustaining any loss. The growth and security of your business rely on your alertness and preparedness to avoid falling prey to financial loss due to unexpected mishaps.

Click HERE to know more about public liability 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.

Natural gas is commonly used at homes for cooking and heating purposes. It is a fantastic fuel and is highly convenient for domestic purposes. However, since the gas is combustible, a leakage in large amounts can cause suffocation and death.

As natural gas is colourless and odour-free, it is always difficult to find any gas leak signs in your home. Also, remember that it might not have physical indications or smells. So, how can you identify natural gas leaks? Let's look at everything you need to know.

Detectors for Natural Gas leaks.

1. Propane & Natural Gas Detector:
The goal of these sensors is to notify about grills or stoves being switched on. Many homes use sensors to detect whether the youngsters in the family are tampering with the grill or stove. These sensors come in both connected and wireless forms. If you have a hardwired sensor, you can use a wireless transmitter to connect to it.

2. Carbon Monoxide Detector:
When these detectors sense a particular level of carbon monoxide in the air, they go off and sound an alert. It has a combination of different sensors that help it function, such as

• A biomimetic sensor changes colour as it absorbs carbon monoxide, and this colour shift activates the alert.

• The silica chip's circuitry system detects carbon monoxide, which reduces the electrical resistance and causes the alarm to sound.

• If the electrodes in a chemical solution present in the detector come into touch with carbon monoxide, they detect variations in electrical currents, triggering the alarm.

Traditional ways to detect a gas leak.

1. The smell of a rotten egg or sulfur:
Natural gas and propane have unique odours for a particular reason. Gas processing companies employ mercaptan as a safety additive because it gives the colourless and odourless gas a distinct odour. Most people associate this odour with rotting eggs or sulfur. So if you smell anything of such nature, investigate for a gas leak.

2. Dead vegetation:
Although you can't see the gas pipelines beneath the soil, a visible patch of dead vegetation can signify a leaky gas pipeline underneath.

3. Hissing sound:
You may hear a mild hissing sound coming from your gas line if there is a leak. This is a solid sign to get the line diagnosed immediately.

4. The bubble test:
Combine a teaspoon of detergent with a cup of water. Apply this solution to the area you believe is leaking and watch for bubbles to form. This signifies that gas is leaking from that location.

The possibility of a gas leak can be frightening, but understanding how to recognise danger and what precautions to take can help you relax. When it comes to gas leak detection, using the methods outlined above can assist you in determining whether your family and house are in danger.

One more step in maximising safety is to get insurance for you, the loved ones and your valuable assets. Browse through different plans of general insurance companies in India and analyse your requirements. Buy the plan that meets all your needs and safeguard your home against these risks.

Click HERE to explore insurance plans from one of the best general insurance companies 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.

Bone injuries are severe and painful. They make your life miserable, and everyday chores become a huge task. The post-fracture recovery takes a long time to heal the bone. It requires the patient to undergo complex procedures to ensure that the bone heals appropriately and that normal body functions are not obstructed. Although your body has exceptional capabilities to heal itself, you must still take extra care while doing daily tasks.

We all have fallen at least a couple of times in our lives. We bruise, get cut, bleed, sprain, pull a muscle, or break a bone. There is always a risk of a hairline fracture. You must be aware of the term and how risky it can be. If you are somebody who is a stranger to the concept of a hairline fracture, do not fret. This blog discusses what it is, the signs of hairline fractures, and tips for healing them effectively. Let’s begin!

1. What is a hairline fracture:
Hairline fractures are also known as stress fractures. These fractures occur when small cracks appear and grow on the bones of your foot, lower leg, and hands. Hairline fractures are often observed in the bodies of people with a lot of footwork, like jumping, running, hardcore workouts, and other athletic activities in their routine. Moreover, in other cases, hairline fractures result from accidents and collisions against hard surfaces, during which the bones in your body bear an impact and get fractured.

2. Causes of hairline fractures:
As discussed above, excessive and heavy footwork involves activities that put a lot of continuous strain on your foot and ankles. Bones are very rigid parts of our body and can bend only to an extent to maintain the smooth functioning of the ball and socket joints. Persistent pressure on the bones also affects their elasticity and can develop minor stress or hairline fractures.

3. People at risk:
Apart from those who play challenging and heavy-impact sports and the ones who work out a lot might be affected by these hairline fractures with no warning. Genetic and biological factors like gender can influence a high risk of hairline fractures. These fractures are usually common among females.
Physical abnormalities (arched foot, etc.) or using the wrong footwear could also put your bones under stress, even while doing menial chores. Osteoporosis, or weak bones, a history of fractures, and dietary insufficiency (lack of nutrient-rich food items that help strengthen the bones) are other factors that can cause hairline fractures.

4. Signs and tips to heal:
Shooting or sharp pain, inhibition of movement, swelling, inflammation, tenderness, and bruised patches indicate hairline fractures in your bones. You can consult a doctor and get an MRI or X-ray done to confirm their diagnosis in case you have a hairline fracture.

The first and foremost tip for healing the fracture is to rest completely and avoid doing any heavy tasks. Secondly, in the first one or two days, you need to ice the area using ice packs frequently. This will help in reducing the swelling. With the decrease in swelling and lower pain, you can slowly resume your daily routine with extreme caution. Consult a doctor who might recommend crutches, protective shoes (footwear), or a splint to help avoid putting the damaged part under stress and provide maximum support.

That’s all for the signs of hairline fractures and tips to heal them effectively. You must ensure to stay in good health as much as possible. Take the best precautions and remain vigilant. Another wise decision would be to purchase a personal accident insurance policy to avoid monetary stress during mishaps and protect yourself and your family. Explore your options and buy the best personal accident insurance policy that provides optimum protection.

Click HERE to learn more about the personal accident insurance 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.

The recent Economic Survey for the year 2022-23 presented by the Government of India indicates a positive growth outlook for the Indian insurance sector. With the general insurance policy penetration rates at par with the global level, one may assume that all insurance policies are equally preferred in the country.

However, upon careful inspection, it is easy to realise that personal accident insurance plans do not enjoy such high penetration as popular insurance like health insurance, which is considered necessary. While many may think the formerly mentioned plan is sufficient to cover every contingency, the coverage against disabilities and personal accidents is often left out of the scope of consideration.

Defining personal accident insurance plans.

Personal accident insurance plans are a type of insurance that provides coverage in the event of an accidental injury or death. It offers financial support to help cover medical expenses, lost income, and other expenses that may arise from an unforeseen injury or death. Apart from monetary compensation, it also offers peace of mind to policyholders without worrying about the financial consequences of an unexpected accident.

The need for personal accident insurance plans with other insurance.

Buying health insurance only provides limited coverage for the illnesses and conditions included in the policy, leading many to believe it is enough to provide comprehensive protection against adverse events affecting one's well-being. However, this assumption is flawed, as can be understood from the definition above. Hospitalisation due to the policyholder's illness is a prerequisite for raising a successful claim. In case of only accidents or injuries, the policyholder is left unprotected, making purchasing personal accident insurance plans essential.

1. Coverage extent:
Health insurance only provides compensation in case of the policyholder's death or hospitalisation due to specified illnesses. It offers no specific coverage or payouts for accidental death or injury. Personal accident insurance plans supplement such cases by covering accidents caused during travel, work, commute, etc.

2. Financial compensation:
One of the benefits of personal accident insurance is that it provides financial support to help cover medical expenses and loss of productive capacity due to an accidental injury or death. This way, hospitalised policyholders who cannot return to work for a stipulated period are offered a daily cash allowance and additional benefits for their dependents, like children's education and transportation allowance.

3. A broad scope of disability coverage:
Most personal accident insurance plans offer coverage for accidental death, permanent partial or total disability, or temporary total disability. This provides incidental disability or death coverage regardless of the cause, unlike health insurance. Therefore, personal accident insurance plans offer peace of mind to policyholders about the financial consequences of an unexpected accident.

4. Flexibility of coverage:
Personal accident insurance plans are generally more affordable than other insurance types. They are also flexible, allowing policyholders to choose the ideal coverage for their needs and budget, making it accessible to a broad range of potential policy purchasers.

Standard exclusions to keep in mind.

Like every insurance product, personal accident insurance plans exclude certain factors such as natural death, high-risk work environments, childbirth or pregnancy, suicide, and self-inflicted injuries. Accidents caused while participating in extreme sports, under the influence of intoxicants, or while engaging in criminal activities are other reasons that most insurers do not provide coverage.

Despite their exclusions, personal accident insurance plans are excellent supplements to health insurance and provide relatively comprehensive protection against the financial impact of accidental injury or death. We urge you to consider purchasing personal accident insurance plans to protect against unforeseen accidents.

Click HERE to browse through different 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.

Losing your traditional car keys is a minor concern as you can quickly get a duplicate key made by the car service centre. However, as vehicles have become more technologically sophisticated, getting new keys can be more technical and expensive than ever.

It can take several steps and leave a dent in your wallet to replace a lost or stolen key, depending on the type and model of the car you drive. Fortunately, when comparing new car insurance rates, you can purchase an add-on coverage to protect your car keys.

While the add-on cover can limit your expense, here's what you should do if you lose your car keys.

1. Verify carefully:
Before deciding, conduct a comprehensive search for the keys everywhere. Retrace your steps and cover all the spaces you may have placed your keys.

2. Inform your insurance provider:
When you lose your key, the first thing is to write to the insurance provider and tell them what happened. With a misplaced key, there is a considerable risk of vehicle theft. Additionally, they may require the submission of an FIR filed with the nearest police station.

3. Reach out to a franchised dealer:
Contacting a manufacturer's dealer for your car is recommended if you need an OEM replacement key. It frequently costs money and takes time to obtain. If your original key offered features like a hands-free boot release, you will receive a new key identical to it in addition to programming for those features.

4. Decide on your car's essential type:
If you lose the existing key and have no spare, consider switching your key type. Traditional transponder, FOB, and intelligent keys are options to choose from.

How to recover different kinds of keys.

1. Traditional key:
You must put a conventional car key into the ignition cylinder to start your vehicle mechanically. If you misplace your car keys, you can phone an auto locksmith, who can immediately make you a new key. You might need a new ignition lock cylinder and key from the dealer or another repair facility.

2. Transponder key:
These keys are more advanced and detected by the Electronic Control Unit that starts the engine. A skilled electronic locksmith can help as they have spare keys equipped with the same tuning chips as your car. But they bill you more than they would have for a regular car key.

3. Smart key:
Modern vehicles almost universally include push-button start and keyless entry. However, we advise keeping a spare in your glove compartment for emergencies. If you lose your keyless entry FOB, you can buy a spare key or have your car towed to the closest brand dealership, where they will program a new FOB to pair with your vehicle. Smart keys are the most expensive set of keys among all types, and you should only get them from your authorised car dealer.

Losing your car key is not a significant concern as there are several ways to recover a new one or attain a spare key. Also, consider purchasing key protection coverage while evaluating new car insurance rates for comprehensive coverage of your car and its key. It's always a safe option to watch out for your car keys and keep them safely in your pocket and avoid leaving them unattended.

Click HERE to buy comprehensive 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.

When looking to purchase bike insurance coverage, there are a variety of options available. A comprehensive policy with zero depreciation add-on coverage is among the most used motor insurance policies.

This post will discuss the advantages of purchasing the zero depreciation add-on, how it improves coverage, and most importantly, whether the higher price is justified. To learn more, keep reading.

What is zero depreciation on bike insurance?

As a policyholder, you must be informed of the numerous crucial provisions of bike insurance. The depreciation component is one of them. Depreciation is nothing more than a loss in value that occurs over time. The bike and its components experience normal wear and tear over time. The result is depreciation.

When you file a bike insurance claim, the depreciation factor comes into play, and your claim amount is reduced. This is why you want to think about acquiring zero-depreciation two-wheeler insurance. You can purchase this add-on coverage along with the complete bike insurance plan. No matter how old or the bike has depreciated, the insurance company will pay out the entire claim amount when you have a zero depreciation cover.

The benefits of bike insurance with zero depreciation.

● More compensation: With a zero depreciation add-on, the cost of repairing your bike is covered without accounting for the bike's diminished worth. Consequently, you are reimbursed for the entire coverage.

● Saving money: You pay a higher cost with a zero depreciation add-on. But it's also true that your insurer will pay you more when you file a claim. Additionally, if you get insurance from an insurer that permits limitless zero depreciation, you can save money each time you file a claim for your motorcycle.

● Abundant coverage: Every bike owner can benefit from a zero depreciation add-on cover, valid for inexperienced and seasoned drivers. This acts as additional insurance to handle any financial problems arising from any catastrophe with your bike.

● Restrictions on out-of-pocket charges: With this add-on coverage, you can limit any additional costs that an insured person would otherwise be required to pay as depreciation charges. The depreciation value will not be considered when settling your claim, though, if you already have this add-on coverage.

● Reduces mental stress: The zero depreciation add-on cover provides a second layer of protection, which gives you more peace of mind by reducing your financial stress to a large extent.

When is a zero depreciation add-on cover required?

1. If you've only just started riding:
Compared to seasoned bike riders, new riders are more likely to make mistakes that result in collisions and bumps. Therefore, a zero depreciation cover would benefit you if you have just started riding two wheels.

2. If you purchased a new bike:
Since new bikes are so expensive, you should cover them as much as possible with protection. You may aid yourself at this point and preserve your bike in excellent shape for longer by getting a decent zero depreciation cover.

3. If you drive a pricey automobile:
If you possess an expensive bike, you should purchase the zero depreciation rider. A costly motorcycle requires a lot of money for repair and maintenance. Thus, you should be reimbursed for the total cost of each repair each time.

4. If your neighbourhood is dangerous:
Some neighbourhoods are crowded or prone to accidents. Acquiring zero depreciation insurance will benefit you if you live in such a location.

Reminders regarding the zero depreciation add-on cover.

Keeping the zero depreciation add-on cover in mind will help you recall the following:

● It is offered for new bikes up to two years old

● This addition does not waive the required deductibles

● Most insurance companies permit claims with no depreciation addition twice per year

A comprehensive bike insurance policy provides additional financial security if the bike sustains damage. Furthermore, a zero depreciation add-on to comprehensive insurance strengthens and adds more security when you file a claim. The most incredible thing about this addition is that by avoiding depreciation reductions, it can raise the amount of your claim. If the zero depreciation add-on is offered when you renew the bike insurance plan, you should consider opting in.

Click HERE to buy the best bike insurance plan 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.

Over the years, there has been a significant and gradual increase in the demand for luxury goods globally. In the automotive industry, superbikes are an excellent example of the shift from only necessities to splurging on comforts and luxuries. Once considered only for racing enthusiasts, high-capacity motorcycles with an engine capacity of over 150cc are now being used for recreational purposes and commuting.

However, the recent cases of rejected claims by motor insurance companies for accidents involving superbikes have raised concerns over the technicalities of insurance contracts and their effectiveness in shouldering financial losses.

Read on to find out about one such case, the aftermath, and some tips to ensure that your policy covers all such damages if your bike has a high engine capacity.

Case study:
This claim settlement case involved a bike with an engine capacity of over 340cc, which faced an accident, resulting in the rider's demise. The motor insurance company denied the claim since the bike insurance policy included a clause that stated that it should not cover personal accident claims involving bikes or scooters with over 150cc engines.
While the claim was initially denied, the motor insurance company later released the sum to the insured's family and clarified the issue. The insured was covered under an outdated policy that they had since updated to include personal accident cover.

This brings us to our question, is a high-engine capacity bike not covered under bike insurance?
While the case in question may make you believe that superbikes are not included under the provisions of bike insurance policies, it is not the case! The legal requirements of an insurance contract are constantly tweaked to provide maximum benefit to the insured while ensuring that the motor insurance company is aware of all the facts regarding its client to ensure that no insurance fraud occurs. While the old insurance clause excludes personal accident covers, potential policy buyers should read the fine print of their insurance documents to ensure that they are provided with the most recent version of the insurance policy that maximises inclusions.

General engine capacity and usage inclusions as per the old rule:
The old rule prevents the insured from lodging personal accident claims for motorcycles with an engine capacity greater than 150cc. Generally, 2-wheelers with an engine capacity of less than 150cc are used for commuting purposes only. They are, therefore, less risky and more profitable for the insurer since accidents are relatively fewer when compared to bikes with high engine capacity. High cc bikes are expensive, have lower mileage, higher premiums, and have less fuel efficiency.

Tips to ensure that all relevant damages are included in your policy.

As a prudent mechanism, insurance protects the insured in most cases as long as the circumstances are not stated as exclusions from the policy.

1. Read the fine print:It may seem tedious to go through the minute details of your insurance, but it is the safest way to ensure that your motor insurance company is providing you with the latest version of the policy with the most inclusions.

2. Consider purchasing an add-on: Despite close inspection, if specific clauses restrict the scope of potential claims, it is advisable to buy add-on facilities such as zero depreciation cover to keep your expensive possession safe.

3. Compare your alternatives: Before committing to an insurance provider, it is highly advised to compare the existing options and choose a plan with the most inclusions and justified premium with a high claim settlement rate.

4. Renew your policy on time: Delayed renewals and outdated coverage plans are significant issues that potential policy buyers must avoid.

Bikes with higher cubic capacity deliver a powerful performance, making it a worthwhile investment for motorcycle and speed enthusiasts to get their adrenaline rush. Since their cost and insurance premium is more significant than lower cc engine bikes, it is necessary to check the specifications your motor insurance company provides thoroughly. Read all the terms and conditions before making a final decision.

Click HERE to buy insurance from the best motor insurance company.

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.

Public liability insurance shields policyholders from lawsuits brought by third parties for their injuries, damaged property, or other damages due to the insured's negligence. Many people, particularly owners of small businesses, are still determining whether getting public liability insurance is required. We'll look into the answer to that question in this blog post.

General liability insurance may, however, be mandated by law as part of the licensing or registration requirements for specific businesses or professions. Let's dive deeper and understand why purchasing public liability insurance would be better for you.

Reason 1:
It is strongly advised that you consider getting public liability insurance even if your profession or industry does not mandate it. This is because accidents can occur at any time and can be highly expensive to handle. For instance, you can be responsible for paying a customer's medical bills, lost earnings, and other damages if they slip and fall on your property. You would have to cover these expenses out of your pocket if you didn't have public liability insurance, which might be extremely expensive.

Reason 2:
Public liability insurance helps shield your and your brand's reputation. If a client or a public member is hurt or loses something due to your company's negligence, it could hurt your reputation and generate bad press. By having public liability insurance, you can show your clients that you care about their security and well-being and that you have the resources necessary to cope with any mishaps that might happen.

What should be considered while purchasing public liability insurance?

1. The amount of coverage you require should be carefully considered before buying public liability insurance. The level of risk involved and the kind and size of your organisation will determine how much coverage is necessary. For instance, a tiny home-based firm would need essential protection. In contrast, a larger company with many employees and risky operations might need higher security.

2. To make sure you know what is and isn't covered, it is also crucial to carefully read the terms and conditions of your public liability insurance policy. Before acquiring insurance, it's critical to be informed of any exclusions or coverage restrictions that might apply. Although you will depend on the insurance provider to cover any potential claims, ensuring they have a solid reputation and sound financial position is also crucial. Therefore, when buying public liability insurance, it's vital to carefully examine the degree of protection you require, review the policy's terms and conditions, and select a reputed and financially sound insurance provider.

3. Cost should be considered when selecting public liability insurance. The price of public liability insurance will change depending on the level of protection needed, the size and type of your business, and the insurance provider you select. Even if cost is a crucial element, it shouldn't be the only factor you consider. In addition to the protection, comparing the insurance cost to the possible costs of a claim or litigation is crucial.

In conclusion, even though many businesses do not think about acquiring public liability insurance, it is strongly advised that you consider doing so. Accidents can occur at any time, and if you don't have public liability insurance, you may be responsible for significant losses and costs.

Also, by acquiring public liability insurance India, you can show your clients that you care about their security and well-being and that you have the necessary resources to cope with any mishaps that may happen. Therefore, explore your options and purchase the best public liability insurance, which would cater to your organisation's and your client's needs in the best way and add the layer of security as required.

Click HERE to learn more about the benefits of purchasing public liability 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.