GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

If you get to have a conversation with a motorhead, you'll probably hear them say that the joy of riding a motorbike comes second to none. A feast for the senses, riding is exhilarating and comforting to motorcyclists. It fosters joy, excitement, thrill, and pleasure. When you ride, you feel liberated, and there is always something new to discover and learn when you're on the roads.

Life throws a lot of experiences at you while on a motorbike trip. You can learn a lot about yourself and others while you are steering your way through the places and covering distances. Bike trips are much more than fun. Such trips can be a great way to connect to your deeper self and unravel fresh experiences and valuable lessons that may change your perspective towards life.

Here are a few life lessons that you can learn when you set out for a bike trip.

1. You’re a tiny but important part of this world:
As a motorcyclist, you share the road with fellow riders. It’s important to respect each vehicle on the road. So, consider yourself important as your discipline makes a significant contribution on the road.

2. Life is too short:
We all have witnessed reckless drivers—cutting into lanes without proper signals, speeding in single lanes, and whatnot. Viewing any mishap or accident is a terrible experience during your long riding trip, but you realize how suddenly things can change. It makes you more careful and appreciative of everything as they are here and now.

3. Focus on your goal:
While driving a car, drivers often engage in distracting activities like adjusting the AC knob and tuning to a radio station. But when you're riding, it's just you, your bike, and the road. There are no distractions, and you just concentrate on the road in front. Likewise, we must focus on what is essential in life. Concentrate on the future and don’t allow minor inconveniences to detract you from your ambitions in life.

4. You learn to let go your ego:
As we said, we've all seen our fair share of terrible drivers. Sometimes you are triggered and obliged to accept the situation because you cannot confront every other vehicle on the road. You learn to swallow your ego and remain patient to handle things maturely. Staying calm and tackling problems with patience is not less than any winning formula to live happily.

5. Practice makes an individual perfect:
No one is born perfect, but we can ace any talent with positive intent and dedicated practice. Every ride you take fills you with new experiences and learnings that you can ponder and do better on your next ride. Consistency and a positive mindset are vital to master your fears and weaknesses.

When you are riding, relax your soul and enjoy the present moment. There's plenty to experience even in the most unlikely locations. Hop on the motorbike and discover life like never before. Like life, the roads are uncertain; but something certain is ensuring safety. This is yet another lesson that bike trips teach us; to be responsible for your safety and possessions. So, be responsible and purchase bike insurance for the additional protection of your bike. You may surf through multiple bike insurance online and buy the one that assures value for money.

Click HERE to get 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.

People's concern over their health and fitness has increased since the outbreak of Covid-19. Due to the ongoing pandemic, we have all been practicing social distancing. It has become evident that we don't need a gym membership to keep ourselves fit. Instead, health from home has become just as popular as work from home.

There are multiple applications, websites, and tutorial videos available online to guide you through a proper workout regime. Whether you have registered for a virtual fitness class or have decided to go solo in your home gym, many types of equipment will help you maintain a healthy body and hopefully relieve your stress.

So, here are a few recommendations for home-workout equipment helpful to achieve your fitness goals.

1. TRX GO All-in-One Suspension Training:

This set is perfect for a full-body workout. It's lightweight, affordable, convenient, and portable. The seven-piece set includes full-body training tools for exercises at home, outdoor, or on the go. It should be a part of your house to feel like you have a private gym.

2. Yoga Mat:

A mat isn't just for yoga. It is helpful for bodyweight exercises like stretching and core work out since it makes them comfortable and easier to do. Mats are affordable, long-lasting, and require no maintenance. In addition, they have a good endurance ability to withstand pressure and give total comfort even while doing difficult yoga asanas.

3. Resistance Bands:

The main use of a resistance band is stretching and strength training. It can be used to work on every muscle group in your body. There are even more exercise options when it is fastened to a post or a door and helps you improve your posture while building muscles. Easy to use, it can be your on-the-go fitness aid.

4. Treadmill:

Walking is the most efficient exercise for any age group. But, many of us, with our busy schedules, have limited space and time for our daily physical activity. So that makes the treadmill a relatively easy piece of workout equipment to use.

5. Ankle Weights:

Ankle weights help you diversify your at-home workouts. They make your lower body workout more effective and are highly recommended if you aim to increase your speed.

Choose your at-home workout equipment based on these three criteria:

1. Cost - Figure out the amount you are willing to spend on your home gym and look for items that fit your budget.

2. Use - Determine your personal goals; if you intend to work out to lose weight, build a muscular body, or straight-up gain strength and maintain overall fitness. Then select gears that provide you functions related to your personal goals.

3. Space - If you live in a city apartment, sharing it with other flatmates, you may only have your bedroom for a home gym. So pick wisely, considering the actual storage space you have.

While choosing the best home workout equipment, remember to decide on a smart health insurance plan for you, too. Physical activity and a healthy lifestyle prevent diseases, whereas health insurance provides financial security against these diseases.

Start planning your home gym today, and once you start working out, be regular and never miss a day.

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There is no denying that many outdated vehicles are still plying on Indian roads, causing massive pollution. Therefore, the Government of India has unveiled the Nation's new Vehicle Scrapping Policy. The main object of this updated policy is to get rid of old and unfit automobiles that produce pollution. The government aims to clean up the air, and the efforts are commendable.

If you have an outdated two-wheeler at home and are considering scrapping it, here are some things you should know prior.

1. Mandatory fitness examination:
The procedure of obtaining a fitness certificate would become significantly strict under the updated scrappage Policy. If your two-wheeler is more than 20 years old, you will have to take a fitness test for your vehicle.
Automobiles registered for business use are subject to the fitness standards once they go beyond the 15 years mark. Computerized workshops will be set up around the Nation. This will result in pinpoint accuracy and faster tests.

2. Compulsory end of life vehicle certification:
If your bike fails the fitness test, you will be required to get an ‘End of Life Vehicle certificate’. This is because used automobiles contain dangerous compounds such as lead-acid batteries, lubricating oil, coolant, braking fluid, and catalytic converters. If not disposed of properly, these compounds can contaminate the environment and risk human health and wildlife.

Benefits of scrapping your old bike:
If you're purchasing a new vehicle under the scrappage program, you will receive a 4 to 6% refund off the total price. In addition, state governments can recommend a road-tax credit of up to 25% for personal automobiles and up to 15% for commercial automobiles. In some cases, automobile manufacturers also offer a 5% discount to those who present the 'Scrapping Certificate,' and registration expenses will be waived when purchasing a new vehicle.

Additional pointers to know:

• The policy will not apply to vintage bikes.

• Hybrid and electric bikes are exempted.

• A bike that runs on alternative fuels like CNG is exempted.

When will the policy come into action?
The updated policy will come to force starting with large commercial automobiles, requiring mandatory fitness testing beginning April 1st, 2023. In a phased approach, all other vehicles will be subject to the fitness test starting June 1st, 2024.

Final Say:

The policy is set to come into action in the year 2022; the most crucial stage for the proposed program to succeed is to construct the necessary infrastructure across the nation immediately. As things stand, India has seven computerized fitness test facilities and two official scrappage sites. To meet the market demand, more such facilities are provisioned in coming years.

This policy will encourage the bike sale, benefit the environment, and a step towards a greener future. While benefiting from all the incentives when you dispose of your 2 wheeler, add an extra benefit of insurance to the bundle of happiness. Buy a 2 wheeler insurance online, customize your plan according to your needs, and include the add-ons that can help you when you plan to buy a new two-wheeler after disposing of the old one.

Click HERE to get 2 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.

Insurance for your car is as important as your health insurance because your vehicle also needs a safety shield. It protects your vehicle against incidents like accidents, theft, or damages. You might be aware of the conventional way of car insurance. But here, we provide you with information about usage-based car insurance and its benefits.

The very first question that arises in your mind is, "What is usage-based car insurance?" User-based insurance or UBI combines the expertise from telecommunication and informatics sectors to serve the auto industry. The traditional car insurance policy's premium is based on the car's model and not the driving abilities. So even if you use your vehicle less frequently and have good driving skills, you have to pay a particular premium according to the standard calculation.

Whereas, UBI is a new concept in the Indian car insurance segment that usually collects the available information from the vehicle with the help of Telematics. The accurate data helps insurers to get a better estimation of mileage and driving habits of the driver. Then, the insurer decides on the premium amount based on your driving skills, basic vehicle information, and driving data.

When you opt for UBI, you have to install a tracker on your car, which will collect your driving data, and it will be used on a large stage. It will create your driving risk profile for your welfare and your insurance company. It stores the following data:

1. Frequency of usage of your car

2. Average speed of your car

3. Accelerating and braking pattern of your car while you drive

4. Based on your driving, you are rated if a safe driver or harsh driver

This information is used to charge the appropriate premium for your car insurance. So if you have a low-risk profile with an excellent driving score, you have to pay less premium than a reckless driver.

Also, this UBI comes in variants like:

1. Pay as You Drive (PAYD): Premium charged based on the amount of driving

2. Pay How You Drive (PHYD): Premium is decided based on driving skills

3. Distance-based Insurance: This is miles-based insurance; in this, the total number of miles covered by the car during the policy period will decide the premium

Let us share some of the advantages of UBI:

1. Having a personalized car insurance plan can save your pocket to a reasonable extent

2. It's a rewarding system for safe and skilled drivers

3. In critical times like accidents, your location is easily tracked and rescued on time with medical aids

4. Insurance companies get closer conversations and better relations with customers

5. This information or data analysis helps in identifying and reducing accidents or rash driving

6. Increases customer's interest as well as reduces claim cost. This further results in low-risk driving and safe drivers

Lastly, the UBI concept is still a new segment in the insurance industry but transforming digitally with more accurate information and benefits. So, get the advantages from UBI when you buy your online car insurance.

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The Indian government has recently stated that installing FASTag is mandatory for every vehicle. Various toll plazas in the country have already adopted it for toll collection. This initiative helps to make the cashless tax collection and reduce waiting time at the toll plazas.

FASTag comes in the form of a sticker or a tag that you need to stick on your car’s windscreen. You can recharge FASTag as per your requirement. When your car passes through a toll plaza, it automatically deducts a certain amount from your bank account or a prepaid wallet. FASTags are a step forward in making India digital. Following are some interesting facts and benefits of FASTag if you are still sceptical about installing it.

Interesting facts to know about FASTag.

1. Without FASTag, you pay double:
Although the authorities have made the use of FASTags compulsory for all vehicles, they are more than just mandatory. If a vehicle does not have it installed, they have to pay double what is paid through FASTag. This rule has been imposed to promote the use of the electronic chip and reduce waiting time and fuel consumption at the tolls.

2. RFID technology:
FASTag uses the RFID or Radio Frequency Identification technology for making payments directly when the vehicle is still in motion. The FASTag sticker is affixed on the vehicle’s windscreen and lets you make direct payments from your bank account or wallet.

3. FASTags are bank-neutral:
FASTags are available in most of the certified banks. They are also available at various toll plazas, digital wallets, and unified payment networks. Vehicle owners can simply visit any of these locations or visit these apps with the required documents to open their FASTag account and recharge it.

4. FASTags have validity:
FASTags have a validity of five years from the day of issuance. This means you will have to renew your FASTag account every 5 years. However, there is no expiry date on your recharge money, and you can use it as per your requirements. To check the validity of your FASTag, you can log in to the bank’s FASTag portal or mobile app.

5. Recharge as per your requirements:
There are two ways you can pay tolls using FASTag- by linking FASTag to your bank account where the money is directly deducted or by recharging your online wallet. If you choose to recharge, the minimum amount is Rs. 100. The recharge can only be done through online mode.

6. FASTags send you SMS alerts:
When you open your FASTag account and link your mobile number to it, you will be notified via SMS whenever there is a deduction from your account. You will also receive details regarding available balance, recharge confirmations, and alerts if you have a low balance.

Technological advancements have been shaping the future of India in various dimensions, and road transport has been receiving the optimum results. Severe commutation issues like long traffic jams, chaos at the toll plazas, and road accidents, have been brought under control with the wise use of technology.

FASTag has been a significant contributor to this movement, and it will show a massive positive impact in the coming years. Be a responsible driver and install FASTag in your vehicle to play your role in the initiative. Use these technology initiatives in your favour to have a comfortable and safe driving standard. And when safety is concerned, think of car insurance. Reduce dependencies on additional unwanted expenses and cover your car under the benefits of a comprehensive car insurance policy. Always look after your car insurance renewal to enjoy uninterrupted services for a long time.

Click HERE to know more about the best car insurance renewal options.

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.

Cars are the most comfortable mode of commuting and road trips. Their design and features provide convenience to you both on a daily basis and also for a longer drive. Is your car your second home? If yes, then why not think of personalizing it with certain accessories or gadgets. If you choose the right accessories or gadgets, then they can make your time on the road more joyful.

This article shares some of the best accessories and gadgets that we recommend for your car.

1. Dash cams:

Dash cams are designed to capture astonishing, and bewildering moments during a car ride. Are you aware that Dash cams can save lives? Dash cams record your entire journey, covering the footage of the road as well as inside of your car. They are helpful at the time of accident investigation. Several advanced versions of Dash cams provide car protection that is one step ahead. In addition, they come with GPS that stands crucial to locate the car in case of severe accidents.

2. USB charger:

These days, there is nowhere you can go without a charged cell phone because your life depends on it! From work calls to booking hotels, travel tickets to even paying for food, you need your smartphone for it all. Therefore, it is advisable to own a USB charger capable of charging multiple devices at a time. In addition, car charges are handy products and provide immediate battery backup for your electronic devices during the journey.

3. Bluetooth speakers for music:

Even a short ride home is incomplete without some music. You wouldn't want to miss your favourite song playing on the radio during a drive. So it would be entirely ignorant if you do not have a good Bluetooth speaker. In the age of wireless technology, accessories like Bluetooth speakers are doing wonders. They come with specifications like better sound quality, on-the-go wireless connectivity, and hands-free operation. So get yourself one to enjoy the uninterrupted music during your drive.

4. Head-Up Display (HUD):

This gadget will make people fawn over your whole car as it gives futuristic and ultra-modern vibes. It projects the GPS on a transparent screen in front of you. Head-up displays are positioned on the dashboards so that the driver gets a clear view of vital data to see without disturbing the usual view angle. HUDs come with a navigation facility as well and make your car complete with satisfactory cruise control.

5. Rooftop Cargo:

While travelling, fitting all your luggage in your car's trunk can, at times, be difficult for you. Suddenly you realize that the insufficient boot space is a major issue as it cannot accomodate all your luggage. However, a cargo box for your vehicle will surely help you fit in your whole family's baggage for the next trip.

On a conclusive note, the modern and futuristic accessories make your driving experience more personalized and comfortable. You can also keep updating your old gadgets with newly added features.

Having said that, keep in mind your car insurance renewal remains an important priority. Always renew your car insurance to enjoy the benefits that it comes with, continuously.

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We all want our cars to stay forever sparkling and perfect, and we do everything in our capacity to keep them brand-new. Still, we cause some damage to the vehicles. It doesn't matter if you are an experienced driver or a learner; we all sometimes make mistakes as a result of particular bad habits.

These incorrect driving habits lead to unnecessary wear and tear to the vehicles and spending more money on repairs in the garage. To avoid it, we have shared 07 driving habits that you might need to look into immediately.

1. Not slowing down at potholes and speed breakers:
At least one-third of the damage to your cars occurs due to not slowing down over potholes and bumpers. It is not practically possible to avoid potholes everywhere you drive, so the least you can do is slow down.
Not slowing down on potholes can cause buckled wheels, lumps in the tyres, and even cracked alloys. The same goes for speed breakers; if you slow down on a speed breaker, you can avoid severe damage to the underside of your car and the exhaust system.

2. Continuing to drive your car at a low fuel level:
People fill up the tank when it reaches the 1/4 mark. At the same time, others push their cars to their limits. If you're the second type, you may be causing damage to your vehicle. When your fuel tank is nearly empty, the car will draw petrol from the very bottom. This may appear harmless, but the base is usually where all the toxins settle and concentrate, and if there is a significant build-up of impurities, it may clog your filters which might enter the engine.

3. Overloading your car:
We all have a habit of leaving something behind in the car, thinking it does not make a big difference. But all this extra load brings strain on your car’s brakes and suspension. Therefore, think twice before loading unnecessary luggage in the trailer next time. Plus, you will also form a habit of keeping your car clutter-free.

4. Smoking in the car:
Smoke from the cigarette makes your car stink. But the problem does not stop there. Over time, the particles from the smoke will mix with the car's material, leading to bad odour and discolouration of surfaces. This becomes tough to get rid of and will eventually deplete the value of your vehicle.

5. Revving your engine too soon in cold weather:
Revving your engine too soon will damage the engine's parts which are not yet lubricated with engine oil. Therefore, allow the engine to warm up properly before revving.

6. Applying brakes too late:
If you are habitual of harshly applying breaks at the last moment, it creates strain on the brake and makes the discs and pads wear out fast. Instead, maintain a steady speed and oversee the obstacles to avoid sudden and harsh braking.

7. Resting your hands on the gear stick:
Keeping your hand on the gear stick can be bad for the transmission because the constant pressure will cause it to wear out much faster.

Take a note of these driving habits that you might be doing unknowingly and keep your car safe from unnecessary damages. Another bad habit that may affect your car’s safety is neglecting your car insurance renewal. It is important to keep your car insurance renewal up-to-date and follow the above tips to keep your car looking and running great.

Click HERE to know more about the car 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.

There is a myth that young and healthy people do not need health insurance. An unhealthy lifestyle, irregular eating habits, and no time for exercising are the main reasons for premature illnesses even at a very young age. So, it has become necessary for everyone to have health insurance irrespective of age or income to cover themselves against lifestyle-related diseases. Getting health insurance at an early age brings many benefits and features. We explain a few of them here.

Low premiums:

The main benefit of getting health insurance at an early age is low premium costs since premiums are calculated based on risks. When a person is young, the risks involved regarding their health are lower; therefore, the premium will be low. It is advised to get health insurance as soon as a person turns 18. A child below the age of 18 can get coverage in the parent’s insurance policy.

Wide range of medical coverage options:

Another advantage of availing of health insurance at an early age is the comprehensive coverage options for diseases. Fortunately, treatments and medications are available for all diseases. Some of these diseases can cost a fortune if the expenses are not covered by health insurance. Health insurance policies provide a lot of financial support in case of any emergency. Also, there are lifetime renewal options if the policy is purchased in an early stage.

No-claim bonuses:

Every year, if a no-claim is made for the health insurance policy, the policyholder is rewarded with a bonus. Thus, for a policy purchased at a young age, it is very likely that you make no claim during the policy tenure and can get benefits of cumulative bonuses.

Income Tax advance:

Purchasing health insurance brings income tax benefits to you. Under 80D of the Income Tax Act, 1961, you can get a tax refund on the yearly premiums you pay for the insurance. It helps you in your financial planning from a very early age of earnings.

Low rejection rate:

Getting a health policy, adding the top-ups and other features is much easier for the young people than the elders. As mentioned earlier, getting the higher coverage or additional feature will cost you relatively less with a low rejection rate. You can enjoy more benefits of comprehensive and holistic coverage than the policies and coverage applied at a later age.

Avail more discount for online health insurance:

During pandemic times, visiting an insurance company and purchasing health insurance is not feasible. Most of the companies now offer discounts and other advantages if applying online. Online health insurance saves you money by recommending the best deals and well-suited policies depending on your requirements. Some websites even have the expertise to suggest plans that match your exact needs.

Like the other mandatory official documents such as driving license and PAN card, it should be your responsibility to purchase health insurance once you turn 18. Negligence in the matter of health is the worst mistake to make. Wisely choose the plan that can cover all your medical expenses for the long term.

TURNED 18 AND WANT TO BUY HEALTH INSURANCE THAT SUITS YOU BEST? CLICK HERE…