GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Much like oil, the coolant in your car is a special fluid that can't be overlooked. Although, in comparison to oil, the coolant needs less attention. Car owners often tend to neglect it, which can severely damage the vehicle and potentially be life-threatening.

This post will give you a clear idea about what will happen if you drive with low or no coolant.

What is coolant?
Coolant is a combination of water and antifreeze. It has a greater boiling point than water, and works at higher temperatures and pressures to regulate the heat generated in the engine. It takes heat from the engine and radiates it back into the atmosphere via your radiator.

Here are the effects of driving with insufficient coolant.

1. Overheating:
The main function of a coolant is to extract heat from the engine. A shortage of coolant may cause your car engine to overheat. If you continue to run an overheated engine, there could be irreversible damage, such as pistons welding to the cylinders.

2. Engine cutoff:
Modern vehicles feature a safety mechanism that will turn off the engine if it suffers considerable damage due to a lack of coolant. Although this function can help you save on engine repairs, it can leave you stranded on the road.

3. Damage to the water pump:
The water pump’s function is to circulate coolant throughout the engine. The pump will continue to run dry if there is insufficient coolant. If the pump goes dry, racks and pockets of air will form in the coolant channel. This increases the pump’s burden and can destroy it permanently.

4. Damage to engine:
The engine blocks are not the only sections that can be damaged by overheating. Many other components can become exposed to heat.
Below is the overview of parts that may suffer the wrath of an overheated engine:

• Head gaskets

• Cams and pulleys

• Warped or bent connector rods

• Crankshaft

• Piston timing

• Connecting rod

5. Decreased mileage:
Your car's engine will be less efficient if you don't have enough coolant. Friction generates more heat, which means more energy is spent. As a result, the fuel efficiency is dismal.

How to identify low coolant levels?

1. Dashboard Warning:
The coolant warning light will light up on your dashboard when car sensors detect a low level of coolant. Keep an eye on your dashboard; it is essential to note that not all cars, especially the older ones, have this feature. Therefore, consider manual checking of the level periodically.

2. A.C. blows hot air:
If your AC unit starts blowing hot air, it is a sign of a lack of coolant.

3. Lower mileage:
Your car starts to consume more fuel per km and shows reduced engine performance.

4. Temperature gauge rise:
The temperature levels of internal components start showing an unexpected spike due to the low level of coolant.

It is vital to make regular coolant checks a habit. If your car's coolant runs out, pull over immediately. Let the engine cool to a safe operating temperature before going to the nearest garage.

If you're unable to drive to a garage, have your car towed to avoid the risk of further damages. Car insurance proves to be a valuable investment in such situations. So, purchase a car insurance policy that provides you with your desired benefits and adds value to your four-wheeler.

Click HERE to invest in ideal car insurance that meets all your requirements.

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.

Technological advancements are visible in a country like India, where economic developments are happening rapidly. These changes are accelerating the growth in all sectors, including the automobile sector. The car industry is an essential growth driver of the Indian economy, and a lot is yet to be done in this field.

Additionally, the Indian economy is set to grow by 7.4% in the coming years. This will significantly impact the automotive industry as well. Car sales in the country have grown by 50% in the last few years, and it is set to record more in the coming years. Automobile ownership will take a giant leap and be a convenient option for most commuters.

However, with such growth, the risks also increase. This also leads many fraudsters to take different ways and means to hack and steal. As the existing state of motor security in India is inadequate, every motor insurance company in India is trying to protect people against such crimes.

All next-generation cars must follow more security regulations to address these challenges. Let's have a detailed look at them.

What is the current scenario of vehicle security in India?

Like everything else, the car security statistics of India are not satisfactory. Every year, more advanced means of theft are discovered. Car theft, hijacking, and robbery are common matters these days. The cars are also more prone to theft because there aren't enough safe parking spaces, which makes them easy targets for carjackers.

What is car hacking?

The automotive industry is under the radar of cyber criminals every day. As the technology is being developed, the risk increases. Vehicles are more connected and automated than ever. This allows cybercriminals to hack into the system and steal valuable data.

They make use of malware to get into the vehicle's system and gain access to all the connected devices as well. These mischievous minds can use this to steal financial data, personal information, and the car.
They make use of malware to get into the vehicle's system and gain access to all the connected devices as well. These mischievous minds can use this to steal financial data, personal information, and the car.

What can be done to prevent it?

After the car theft crime rate is increasing rapidly, the Indian government initiated various guidelines for the automobile industry. These security regulations need to be thoroughly followed by all future vehicles. These rules will keep drivers safe and expect to reduce the crime rate. These are

1. Security standards:
The government is trying hard to elevate the safety standards of vehicles. This means that all vehicles need to be equipped with GPS trackers in the future. Additionally, an anti-theft device should be placed too.

2. Using a High-Security Regulation plate:
HSRPs come with a non-removable snap-on lock which is irreplaceable. All the vehicle details, like chassis and engine numbers, can be collected and stored in a secure database using HSRP. These unique number plates will bring uniformity by eliminating the use of fancy plates. This can also aid authorities in easily tracking your vehicle's registration number.

3. Update all software:
It is crucial to regularly update all security patches of your vehicle's firmware and other IoT software to eliminate any possibility of hacking or breaches. Another advanced solution for connected vehicles includes public-key infrastructure (PKI) that ensures a superior level of security.

4. Awareness:
Regular awareness drives and car security campaigns are mapped out for all car owners so that they can be prevented from theft. This also includes educating them about tracking devices, hacking, etc.

5. Accessible public transportation:
The government is creating a massive public transportation infrastructure for the general public's convenience. Buses and metros are being developed every day, and more cities are being included in the list of metros. This will reduce the dependence on private vehicles.

The future of next-generation cars relies on technology. GPS trackers, Bluetooth connectivity, and anti-theft devices are the future of the automotive industry. They will be mandatory in the future. Every motor insurance company is considering them while planning out their insurance policies.

Click HERE to buy a policy 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.

You're familiar with that feeling when you're on the verge of becoming ill. You feel worn out, like something is wrong, and you're colder than usual. And at that point, you start to wonder just what is happening. Is it the cold, the flu, or the RSV? Or might it just be allergies?

When you first start to get sick, it can be hard to tell the difference between these illnesses. Surprisingly, they have identical symptoms. Find out in the following article what might be causing your flu-like symptoms and when you should visit a doctor.

What are the symptoms of flu?

● Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea

● Muscle aches and pains

● Sore throat, running nose, or cough

● Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

● Fever

What other conditions are like the flu?

1. Cold:
Most people have experienced many episodes of the common cold. A wide variety of viruses brings it on. Symptoms of a cold include a running or stuffy nose, a sore throat, coughing, sneezing, headaches or body aches, and fever. Since there is no way to tell if you have a cold, most treatments are meant to ease the symptoms.

2. COVID:
The symptoms of COVID and the flu sometimes coincide. In its early stage, COVID symptoms are more like those of a cold than of the flu. Breathing difficulties and loss of taste or smell are two symptoms that are more prevalent with COVID.

3. Pneumonia:
Both viruses and bacteria can cause pneumonia. Cough, fever, shortness of breath, and exhaustion are the primary signs of pneumonia. It's also crucial to remember that pneumonia can develop from the flu, COVID, or a simple cold. This is only sometimes the case, though. Finding out if you have pneumonia requires a chest X-ray.

4. Bronchitis:
A lower respiratory infection or inflammation is referred to as "bronchitis." It is caused by a virus that affects the lungs, but the symptoms can last even after the infection is gone. It may be caused by persistent inflammation. Your symptoms and other medical issues typically determine your course of treatment. Steroids and inhalers are helpful for some people.

5. RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV):
RSV is a widespread virus that manifests as flu-like symptoms. In grownups, it frequently resembles and feels like the common cold. But it can hurt the lungs and cause breathing problems in young children, especially those under 6 months old. Infants with RSV have fast breathing and apparent behavioural abnormalities. They could have difficulties in eating or seem more worn out than usual. A hospital stay may be necessary for oxygen and constant monitoring during treatment.

When should you go to the doctor if you're experiencing flu-like symptoms?

● People with severe lung or heart diseases

● Very young children

● Older adults over 65

● Women who are pregnant or within two weeks of birth

● People with neurologic abnormalities, such as a history of seizures

If you experience any of the following, get medical care right away:

● Dizziness

● Pressure in the chest or stomach

● Extreme muscle tenderness

● Dehydration and inability to retain food

● Difficulty breathing or fast breathing

● No improvement in symptoms after 3 to 5 days

A healthcare professional can test you for many diseases you might have and ensure you get the right treatments. Mainly due to change in seasons, flu-like symptoms are frequent. It could be hard to tell the difference between the flu and other diseases like COVID, the common cold, or strep throat. If you have the flu but aren't sure, see your doctor for a check-up.

You can speak with your physician about receiving a flu shot if you fall into one of the high-risk categories. Your medical bills, pharmaceutical charges, hospitalisation costs, and other expenses are all covered by health insurance. Health insurance in India is now more than just a choice—it's necessary to get the best medical care without worrying about how it will affect your finances.

Click HERE to buy the best health 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.

Kayaking is one of the most exhilarating water sports activities one can indulge in during the summer holidays. It is an exciting way to explore the natural beauty of lakes, rivers, and oceans while exercising and enjoying the fresh air. However, for those who are new to the sport, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. Therefore, we have compiled a list of the best beginner tips to help you enjoy kayaking this summer holiday.

While kayaking is a fun and exciting activity, it also involves some risks, and it's essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. In addition to learning the basics of kayaking, it's necessary to understand the importance of wearing protective gear and obtaining a personal accident insurance policy before you hit the water.

With these factors in mind, let's understand some detailed pointers to help you make the most of your summer kayaking experience.

1. Choose the right type of kayak
Before you start kayaking, you must choose the right type of kayak for your skill level and the water you'll be kayaking on. Sit-on-top kayaks are an excellent option for beginners as they are stable and easy to use. They are also less likely to tip over, making them safer.

2. Wear appropriate clothing and gear
Kayaking can be a wet and messy experience, so wearing appropriate clothing and gear is essential. Wear a life jacket, a helmet, and appropriate footwear. Choose quick-drying, lightweight clothes that will keep you cool and comfortable in the water.

3. Learn the proper paddling technique
The paddling technique is essential for an enjoyable kayaking experience. Learn the proper technique from a qualified instructor or watch online tutorials. Good technique will help you conserve energy and prevent injuries.

4. Choose calm waters
Choosing calm waters with minimal currents and waves is essential for a beginner. Avoid kayaking in open water or rough conditions until you're confident in your abilities.

5. Bring a friend
Kayaking alone can be dangerous, especially for beginners. Bring a friend along for safety and to make the experience more enjoyable and memorable.

6. Stay hydrated
Kayaking can be physically demanding, and you can quickly dehydrate in the sun. Bring plenty of water or sports drinks to stay hydrated throughout your kayaking trip.

7. Check weather conditions
Before heading out for your kayaking trip, check the weather conditions. Avoid kayaking in stormy or high wind conditions, as these can make the water choppy and difficult to navigate.

8. Know your endurance
As a beginner, it's essential to know your limits and not push yourself too hard. Take frequent breaks, and don't overestimate your abilities. It's better to have a shorter, enjoyable kayaking trip than to push yourself too hard and have an awful experience.

9. Get a personal accident insurance policy
Consider getting a personal accident insurance policy before embarking on your kayaking adventure. This will protect you from any accidents or injuries during your kayaking trip. This policy can provide financial assistance for medical expenses and lost income due to injuries.

Kayaking can be incredibly fun and rewarding for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors this summer. By following the beginner's tips outlined above, you'll be able to get started with kayaking in no time while ensuring your safety and minimising the risks. Always prioritise your safety by wearing personal protective gear, obtaining a personal accident insurance policy to safeguard yourself against all the risks and dangers of the sport, and checking weather conditions before you hit the water. So, grab your paddle, wear your life jacket, and get ready to have fun on the water!

Click HERE to learn more about the benefits of purchasing a 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.

Are you getting older and giving up on sports? This is a common phenomenon as the fear of injury increases with age and our fitness levels diminish. We hesitate to indulge in our favourite sport, badminton or cricket, with the fear of a muscle tear or a strained back.

But wait. Older adults should constantly engage in physical activities and sports to stay fit and active and enjoy a good social health score. Here are a few sports you should indulge in if you are an older adult and want to feel young again.

1. Golf
Golf is popular worldwide, and older adults can easily engage in it. It is a great stress reliever and improves your overall mental fitness. At the same time, it does not involve much running or physical effort, making it a great choice for older adults. Golf is known to improve blood circulation, which benefits your heart.

The older adults will also build a social circle while playing golf, which improves their emotional quotient. You should keep in mind that there is no pressure to perform well. Enjoy the time you spend outside in the sun in good company, and you will feel young again and light at heart.

2. Group exercises
Yes, group exercises are not just for the young ones but for older adults as well. Older adults can join group exercise classes, be it yoga, pilates, zumba, or some other dance form. They will start feeling young again even if they participate just a few times a week and not daily.

A group exercise will encourage older adults to match their pace with the group. It will keep them agile, fit, and active. These low-impact exercises can also benefit their respiratory system, muscle flexibility, and core balance. They are enjoyable and will also help them build a social circle.

3. Cycling
Cycling can be a great sport that can greatly benefit older adults. They don’t have to cycle at high speeds for long, as mild cycling can do the trick. Cycling improves cardiovascular functioning, immunity, and blood circulation and sharpens the mind. It can make you live longer and reduces the chances of hospital visits.

4. Doubles tennis/ badminton
Playing tennis or badminton in the singles format can be tough and draining for older adults. They can play doubles tennis or badminton to stay fit and agile at their own pace. These are fun sports, easy to play and practice. These sports will help strengthen their muscles, improve blood flow rate, and help them stay mentally fit. Older adults will feel young, active, and energetic once they start playing these sports in routine.

5. Billiards
Older adults can also engage in billiards as a sport. It is an indoor game; they need not sweat to play it. Also, it can be played with just 2-3 people. The sport requires moderate physical movement, sharpening the mind and improving concentration.

It is essential for older adults to engage in any of the above sports of their choice and feel young again. These sports will improve their muscle strength, blood circulation, balance, efficiency, and general mind and body fitness.

But sports also come with the risk of accidents. Hence, a personal accident policy is a must for everyone. It provides coverage and financial support for medical treatment due to an accident. You can easily browse several personal accident insurance online that the insurance companies offer, compare them, and choose the best among them conveniently at the click of a few buttons.

Click HERE to buy personal accident 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.

There are numerous general insurance companies in India offering multiple insurance products. However, most of the population is opposed to purchasing these insurance safety instruments despite the dire need for long-term stability. Recognising the slack in demand for purchasing specific policies, general insurance companies in India have developed a new way to make insurance products more accessible.

Embedded insurance, also known as bundling insurance, is the latest method of partnering with a third-party brand and offering consumers complimentary insurance or with a nominal fee over the transition cost. It helps make insurance accessible by bundling it for customers.

However, if you wonder how embedded insurance can expand opportunities and build strong customer journeys, read on.

What is embedded insurance?
Embedded insurance enables a third-party provider to introduce innovative insurance products for customers. It provides consumers with more affordable, personalised, and relevant insurance. It also allows general insurance companies in India to access underserved and untapped markets.

How embedded insurance helps increase insurance penetration in India? Insurance penetration is calculated as a percentage of total premiums collected relative to the country's GDP. According to the IRDAI, the country's general insurance penetration is about 1%. India's insurance penetration is lower than in developed countries.
However, we anticipate an increase in insurance penetration due to embedded insurance.

Here's how embedded insurance transforms the insurance sector and increases insurance penetration.

1. Charging the untapped markets
This insurance allows insurers to access a new market. With embedded insurance, general insurance companies in India can provide microfinance companies with policies like personal accident insurance and more to target a specific audience. Insurers and third parties can expand the insurance sector's reach in India's underdeveloped markets with the help of embedded insurance. It allows them to reach the untapped rural market, increasing insurance penetration deeper in the country.

2. Innovating product offerings
Insurers can construct personalised and more relevant insurance policies using consumer data that was not recorded or digitised. Customers can also change the insurance policy's features, coverage, cost, etc., and discontinue them if they are no longer reasonable.

3. Enhanced customer experience
Embedded insurance boosts customer satisfaction, resulting in greater opportunities for general insurance companies in India to market their services and products. It also provides more customised coverage, allowing customers to change plans and premiums according to their needs. This way, it offers more significant benefits and value to the customers.

4. Low client acquisition costs
General insurance companies in India spend roughly 20% of their income on advertising to new clients. Embedded insurance decreases the churn rate by engaging policyholders at the right time in their journey. Also, the effective cost of customer acquisition is lower than other insurance.

5. Streamlined onboarding
Many people consider insurance an inconvenient procedure requiring a series of steps. Embedded insurance gives customers a streamlined issuing process, making insurance simple and inexpensive. This applies to the claim procedure too. The smooth operations of embedded insurance is a boon for Indians to invest in insurance massively.

Embedded insurance has much potential, but businesses must balance the efficiency and speed of business operations, regulatory compliance, and customer protection for this model to succeed.

Many general insurance companies in India are now integrating the internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, big data analytics, and other technologies to transform the insurance industry and deliver a hassle-free customer experience. While it will require time for adoption, it is a welcome move to increase penetration rates. Insurers must use the momentum and improve their dependability to gain consumer trust.

Click HERE to invest in a reliable general 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.

Insurance is a financial product like no other. Upon payment of a meagre premium amount, it protects the insured person or asset against a contingent event involving a risk to its present or future value. While general, health and life insurance are relatively common products with a higher penetration rate in India, personal accident insurance online lags far behind.

While this may be attributed to the lack of awareness, it is straightforward why the product is required. Accidents are uncertainties that can occur in any setting, whether travelling, commuting, or at work. Since you cannot eliminate the risk of accidents, purchasing personal accident insurance online is essential to protect yourself against hospitalisation costs and other expenses resulting from an accident.

The limited awareness regarding personal accident insurance is also only partially reliable due to the misconceptions surrounding the product. While its coverage to the extent of travel accidents is commonly known, there are several questions surrounding its scope of coverage for adventure sports.

Find out whether adventure sports are covered by personal accident insurance online.

Defining adventure sports.

Adventure sports are easy to define in lay terms but are described differently by every insurer. It includes sports that involve contact, extreme speed, technical gear, and extremely high levels of risk. As the name states, these sports have a considerably high-risk grade, making most insurers hesitant to cover them. Common extreme sports include skydiving, skiing, rappelling, mountaineering, etc.

Generally, irrespective of the type of insurance- general or non-general, most insurers do not offer coverage for adventure sports due to the intensity of the activities.

Why should you check for adventure sports inclusion before participating?

The thrill of adventure is second to none, and the addition of multiple uncontrollable factors only adds to the experience for those who seek an adrenaline rush. However, one must always ensure to protect themself from potential accidents before participating in such sports for the following reasons –

1. Hospitalisation coverage:
With medical inflation on the rise, covering any possible medical expenses, including those arising from adventure sports, is prudent. Considering the high-risk profile of these sports, it is always better to be ready for the worst and prepare a financial net that shoulders the burden of such costs.

2. Allied perks:
Personal accident insurance online offers related allowances such as a daily cash allowance, transportation, and more. This reduces the strain on your finances during your period of hospitalisation or any inactivity as an earning member.

3. Mental peace:
The most significant benefit of inclusion is the peace of mind to engage in activities of your choice. You don’t have to worry about the consequences due to the existence of a safety net for your finances.

Does personal accident insurance online cover extreme sports?

At face value, one may assume that personal accident insurance online would offer extreme sports coverage. Most insurers in India presently do not include accidents caused while engaging in such sports within the scope of the policy.

However, if you want coverage against such risks, some insurance companies offer comprehensive accidental coverage across all terrains and destinations. It may take additional effort to discover such insurers amid all those that exclude such accidents. Here are a few factors you should consider before purchasing a policy from such a provider:
1. The extent of sports covered- land, air, water, etc.
2. Provision of immediate medical assistance
3. Customisation of a plan as per your adventure needs
4. Active policy period

Despite the exclusion of extreme sports by most insurers, personal accident insurance online is an essential requirement that provides financial assistance when you are only partially covered by your term or health insurance policy alone. We encourage you to consider purchasing personal accident insurance online to cover the other form of accidents and your risk exposure.

Click HERE to buy personal accident 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.

Driving is a highly responsible task that requires a lot of attention and focus. Even the slightest distraction can lead to an accident which could be extremely dangerous and fatal.

So, it is recommended to be familiar with all the functions of the vehicle and drive sensibly. But did you know that the position of your seat and posture also play a significant role in your driving? You should always adjust your driver's seat for the best driving visibility. It should also ensure a good posture to avoid fatigue later. A good posture also ensures you are saved from injuries in an accident.

If you are wondering how to get optimal driving posture, we have you covered. This article will list all the ways to help you achieve the best driving posture.

Also, you should get the online motor insurance renewal on time to have additional protection and avoid trouble for your vehicle later. It can save you time, energy, effort, and hassles

How to maintain the best posture while driving?
Whenever you start driving a car, you should adjust the driver's seat according to your comfort and convenience. If you're driving someone else's car, it becomes more important to adjust your seat. If you fail to do so, you can get musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to bad posture. A good posture also ensures that you don't get exhausted while driving. To adjust the driver's seat, consider the following:

1. Adjust the height of the seat
The height of the driver's seat needs to be appropriately adjusted to increase visibility while you drive. You need to adjust the seat according to your height so that you do not bend over to get the view properly. Moreover, there should be a minimum gap of about five fingers between the head of the seat and the roof of the car.

2. Maintain seat distance
The distance between the seat and the steering wheel is of prime importance. You cannot see the view correctly if it is too far away and requires bending over to reach the steering wheel. The seat should be positioned in a way that you can reach the steering wheel and the pedals effortlessly. This reduces the reaction time and helps you navigate the road well.

3. Maintain the backrest of the seat
Although it may not seem important, the backrest plays an important role while adjusting your driver's seat. The backrest ensures optimal comfort while driving. The backrest should be as vertical as possible.

4. Adjust the headrest of the seat
The headrest can serve as a great safety tool while dealing with accidents. It provides more protection to the head and saves it from injuries. You need to adjust the position of the headrest in a way that it protects your head in case of a sudden impact. You can also position a bit above your head for more protection.

These are only some suggestions by which you can get the best out of your driving experience. Lack of proper road visibility while driving can make it difficult for the driver to get judgement while making turns. These small measures will help you maintain a good posture and see clearly on the road. Make these adjustments in your driver's seat and savour the joy of a comfortable car journey. You should also get online motor insurance renewal done regularly for added protection.

Click HERE to get online motor insurance renewal.

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.