GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

In India, awareness about motor insurance has grown significantly in the last few years. The number of insurance policyholders is slowly but steadily increasing. The increasing means of living and demand for luxury goods to improve convenience are anticipated to keep driving the market for motor insurance. Comprehensive motor insurance consisting of own damages and third-party covers is expected to grow more in the coming future.

Third-party liability insurance is mandatory to protect the driver against legal and accidental liability, financial loss or property damage, and medical expenses he may face after an accident. Despite its advantages, settling claims is a lengthy and costly procedure. The knock-for-knock agreement is a recently introduced aspect of motor insurance to simplify the process and increase the policyholder base and satisfaction.

This blog discusses all you need to know about the knock-for-knock agreement.

The issue before the knock-for-knock agreement:

When an accident happens, the persons involved can contact their insurance companies to compensate the other party for damages. However, this is a lengthy procedure that may sometimes take months to settle with unfavourable conditions. It is also still being determined whether or not the insurer will accept the claim.

In the background of such uncertainties, the affected party has no choice but to file a suit in court, which takes additional time and cost. The knock-for-knock agreement aims to eliminate this waiting period by providing an alternate solution to settle the claim among the parties without the court's involvement.

An alternative approach using a knock-for-knock agreement:

The knock-for-knock agreement is signed by two or more motor insurance companies insuring two or more parties involved in a motor accident. Since these companies are aware of the tedious claim settlement process, they use this alternative agreement and promise to bear the expenses for repairs or damages to their client instead of claiming the amount from the other party. Introduced in 2001 by the General Insurance Council, a motor insurance company doesn't need to sign such an agreement to make the claim process quick.

Advantages of knock-for-knock agreement:

While the concept is simple to understand, here is the summary of the benefits of signing a knock-for-knock agreement:

● Speedy settlement of claims

● Eliminates the need for the involvement of law

● Reduces the expenses required to be borne in case of proving the liability of the third party to derive a settlement from his insurer

Conditions for knock-for-knock agreement:

Three primary conditions are applicable for claims that are admissible under a knock-for-knock agreement.

1. Accidents must occur within geographical boundaries:
The insurance company decides such boundaries before the lodging of the claim. Generally, the limit is considered to be the defined geographical boundaries of India. It is implied that any accident outside the border cannot be admitted as a claim under a knock-for-knock agreement.

2. The claim must be filed as own damages:
Under the agreement, each motor insurance company agrees to compensate its client instead of demanding compensation from the other party. This claim can no longer be filed as third-party damages and is processed as "own damage". Therefore, you must purchase your "own damages" cover, without which you cannot complete this procedure.

3. Limit on the claim amount:
The admissible claim cannot exceed the insured declared value (IDV) previously mentioned in the policy.

The knock-for-knock agreement is a lesser-known aspect of motor insurance that makes claim settlements speedy and inexpensive. It saves the resources of a motor insurance company that agrees to such a contract. Explore this aspect to know more about its seamless benefits before buying motor insurance in India.

Click HERE to buy reliable motor 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.

A critical safety element that is now standard in all modern vehicles is the anti-lock braking system, or ABS. The ABS is frequently marketed as an efficient breaking mechanism that significantly reduces accident risk by facilitating a good grip over the vehicle. We go over everything you need to know about ABS, including its advantages, how it works, and the several kinds you can find in modern vehicles.

What exactly is "anti-lock braking"?

The name of the technology suggests that when you apply the brakes, ABS keeps the wheels from locking. It shortens the distance you need to stop and lets you move or "steer" the car while the brakes are still on. This way, you can avoid collisions from sudden braking and crash into fellow vehicles or objects.

What is the purpose of ABS?

Irrespective of the car's speed, when you press the brake pedal (without ABS), the wheels lock up because the brake pads make tight contact with the wheel discs and stop the wheels from turning.

The car skids because of its momentum when the wheels stop rotating. As a result, the driver has no control over the wheels. Most frequently, this can result in severe accidents.

What are the main components of ABS?

Speed sensors, valves, a pump, and an ECU comprise most ABS parts.

Speed sensors:
These sensors are important to keep track of the wheels' speed.
Valves:
In the brake line, some valves regulate the pressure on the brakes.
Pumps:
When brakes are used, hydraulic fluid-filled pumps pressure the brake callipers or drums.
Electronic Control Unit (ECU):
In response to the signals from the speed sensors, the ECU acts as the command centre of all the processing.

How is ABS used?

When you use the brakes on a car with ABS, the speed sensors track how slowly the wheels turn. Brakes deliver a signal to the electric control unit when they are about to stop rotating. Using valves and pumps, the ECU removes some of the brake pads from the wheels, allowing them to continue spinning. When you apply heavy brakes, ABS enables the wheels to continue turning, giving you control over the car.

Without ABS, when you hit the brakes, the wheels would stop or lock up immediately, causing the car to slide. In this situation, the vehicle would skid and travel a fair distance. It would be challenging to turn your vehicle because the wheels were locked. ABS helps you slow down efficiently, deploy uniform braking, and quickly control your car and avoid it from spinning.

ABS benefits:

● Uneven tyre wear is avoided because the wheels don't lock up when the automobile is stopped.

● The Traction Control System (TCS) and ABS share specific fundamental architectures, which facilitate TCS installation on vehicles in manufacturing facilities.

● You may steer the automobile around obstacles when braking hard, which can reduce brake pad and brake disc wear.

● Minimises the risk of severe accidents due to sudden braking and enhances the car's stability post-braking.

When the brakes are applied hard at high speeds, ABS keeps the wheels from locking up, which makes it much less likely that a deadly accident will happen. The effectiveness of the anti-lock braking system has been demonstrated everywhere. Anti-lock brake systems are now so critical to safety that the Indian government has made them a requirement.

Safety is paramount, and braking is a crucial part of vehicle safety. It's also a good idea to get online motor insurance to upgrade the security of the vehicle and the owner. Motor insurance covers car owners' liabilities and protects them from damage to their cars and any legal obligations they may face. Browse through different options and opt for online motor insurance with the best premium and benefits that suit your needs.

Click HERE to buy online motor 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.

Most households should foresee drainage issues. We can only hope that the drains in our homes are in good condition because they are out of our sight. But several early indicators alert us to a drainage issue. If left unattended, these drainage concerns put people at risk and give rise to crises like safety, health, and financial problems when dealing with poor drainage conditions.

Seven typical drainage issues have been discovered to guarantee a flawless drainage system by sorting these issues:

1. Even with safety precautions, a clog in the drain system is unavoidable, and people flush many things down into the drain. Although it might begin as a slow-moving drain, it could eventually worsen and end up blocked. It is crucial to try an at-home fix for a blockage as soon as it gets noticed.

2. The installation, regular cleaning, and maintenance of gutters and downspouts are essential for the exteriors of dwellings. Numerous issues have arisen when several people take responsibility for their work independently. Both insufficient pipe installation and a lack of plumbing experience are the leading causes. If pipes aren't put in the right way, they can cause plumbing issues, broken tubes, and other property damage, along with the improper passage of sewage.

3. Drain pipes are subjected to a lot of wear and tear, resulting in fractures or cracks that cause the pipes to have open joints. Water leaks from these cracks could result in serious issues in the neighbourhood and even structural damage. Another indication of leaks and an excess of moisture is the development of mould. Pest infestations that enter through pipeline cracks are another issue about pipe breaking and leakage. Fortunately, one can easily fix these problems with prompt diagnosis.

4. With the right slope, water will flow away from the house. It has a big effect on the slope of the land so that the drainage moves away from buildings, especially in places that need to be paved, like parking lots and driveways. Sometimes, the builder might get this wrong and let water seep in or get stuck in the structure, damaging the walls.

5. The growth of plants can be dangerous to plumbing. In the trenches built around pipes and drains, tree roots can obstruct or destroy pipework as they develop and spread. They can enter the drainage system through openings, mainly already-damaged joints. They usually leave a mess of odours and have significant health risks.

6. Heavy rain or storms and the debris they leave behind can cause clogs, floods, or overflows in the drainage system if not appropriately covered.

7. Flooding can put pressure on pipes and can damage the ground. An inadequate drainage system or pipes is another sign of outdoor flooding.

8. Assume your house is next door to your neighbour's. Even if you take all the proper steps, there is still a chance that water from your neighbours' properties will cause damage to your property. It can occur because of a flood on their land or simply because your property is lower than theirs. To prevent water runoff from the neighbours, you must take the appropriate actions and ask for effective waterproofing of the floor.

These problems show how important it is to keep up with drainage system maintenance to avoid extreme issues. Even though most drainage problems aren't evident at first glance, the above points will help you figure out what's wrong and how to fix it.

Conduct periodic inspections of your house's drainage system and look for damages in the pipes, sinks, or ducts. Immediately call the experts to fix it before the issue becomes severe. Ensure regular cleaning of the drains to avoid clogging and unwanted growth of plants. To deal with other problems related to the well-being of your home, like protection from damages to belongings due to natural calamities and other issues like riots, invest in a reliable home insurance India policy. This will provide you with optimum coverage for your home financial support by compensating for the damages caused.

Click HERE to buy home 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.

Who does not love to travel in the winter season? The chilly weather with snow-clad mountains or the cool climate on the beaches and plains can be delightful and welcoming. Taking advantage of the pleasant climate and an ideal season to travel, numerous tourists plan family holidays and group tours to explore the best winter destinations in India. But the idea of winter travel reminds us of the arduous task of carrying thick, heavy, woollen clothing.

Are you planning a family trip or a solo adventure this winter? Here are a few effective winter travel tips for enjoying a memorable trip.

1. Plan in advance:
Winter travel in December and January coincides with Christmas and New Year vacations in schools and holidays in offices. Hence, there is usually a lot of crowd at popular vacation spots and heavy bookings on flights, trains, and hotels.
Hence, you should always plan your winter trip well in advance. Book your travel tickets and accommodations as early as possible so that you don’t have to cancel your trip at the last moment due to the unavailability of travel tickets or rooms in good hotels.
Even if you can get flight tickets and good accommodation at the last moment, you will have to pay exorbitant rates. So why not plan in advance, save money and make your trip memorable?

2. Check your flight and train departure:
Always check the timings of your flight or train departure in the winter season before leaving home. They are usually delayed and are sometimes even cancelled due to heavy fog and low visibility. Keep an alternate route or service in mind in case of any cancellations. This will ensure that your travel plan gets successful.

3. Travel light:
You will wonder how we can travel light with bulky woollen clothes, especially if we are visiting some cold place or a hill station. It is possible by following some simple tips. Wear your most bulky jacket, sweater, shrug, or scarf on the day you have to travel. This will mean you will not have to pack them inside your bags. Also, wear your heavy boots and pack your lighter shoes or slip-on in your bag.
Do not pack multiple t-shirts, tops, or jeans with you. Repeat them. What you wear on the top is only visible in winter. Keep changing your jacket, shrug, or coat, and no one will know you are repeating your dresses! Also, buy woollen clothes of superior quality so that you don’t need multiple layers of clothing to keep you warm. Carry thermal innerwear of good quality as they are light and warm.

4. Rent travel gear:
You don’t need to carry your travel gear everywhere you travel in winter. For example, if you want to ski in the snow, you can rent all the essential gear, including snow boots and overcoats, from the resort you are staying in.

5. Medication:
The cold season brings many ailments, such as flu or fever, nasal congestion, cough, etc. Always carry appropriate medication, especially when travelling with kids and the elderly. Also, use small cases for carrying your cold cream and moisturiser so they only take up a little space.

Make your winter trip special and memorable by following the above travel ideas. Another important tip is to go for your true companion that will never leave your side, i.e., travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against trip cancellations, lost baggage, damage to your luggage, etc. You can take an annual plan to cover all your trips or insure only a particular trip.

Insurance will also offer coverage in case of any medical emergency and assistance arising during your trip. Make your life secure and tension-free by choosing a wide variety of general insurance policies. Moreover, buy online general insurance from the ease of your home with a few clicks, additional benefits, and the best premium rates. We wish you a happy winter!

Click HERE to buy online general insurance before planning your winter travel trip.

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.

Have you ever tried running your hand over your house's glass window panes? The amount of dust you will come across is worrisome. We all are familiar with the saying "cleanliness is next to godliness," but at this point, it is not just about keeping your house clean. It is also about your and your family's health. The dust that settles on furniture, doors, and windows surfaces enters your body when you inhale while just being around your house and going about your everyday chores.

Many times, we rush to the doctor with a common cold or some health issue which is related to the hygiene problems arising from the dust and dirt which have made their way into our home, costing us several trips to the emergency room, medicine dosages, or having a troubled sleep at night.

But how can you combat this problem? Don't worry. This blog will discuss smart tips for washing home glass windows with sparkling shine, which would help you eliminate the tiniest speck of dust, leaving the glass panels squeaky clean!

1. Notice the frame:
If you closely examine a window, you will be shocked by the amount of dust, spider webs, etc., settled on the frame of the glass. The first step to cleaning your windows would be to clean the frame so that the dust particles do not float in the air and find their way to any other surface. You can use a microfibre towel to clean the dust and a sparkling shine solution to wipe off the frame after dusting.

2. How about a mop:
The windows can be large and high, which might not be accessible to clean using a small microfibre towel. A mop with a stretchable handle is the best idea in this scenario. You can dip the mop in a solution, wring it and then wipe the glass windows by stretching the handle to the required length. Ensure that the mop reaches all the corners of the windows, thus giving them the sparkling shine!

3. A small wiper is an intelligent option:
Doubling up on cleaning supplies has never gone to waste. Apart from using a microfibre towel and a mop, you can also use a small wiper which would help you wipe off the cleaning liquid so that it doesn't leave a stain on the window. Keeping a wiper will help you clean the window's exterior glass panel, thus eliminating pollen or bird waste, etc.

4. Rain can be difficult for the windows:
It is advised to clean the windows from the inside and the outside three to four times a year. The most favourable time to clean your windows is during spring and autumn. Cleaning your windows during these seasons helps eliminate any complicated to-clean mineral deposits that might have been set due to the rains.

5. Cleaning directions are a huge bonus:
Spraying some cleaning liquid and using a microfibre towel to wipe the windows can have magnified effects if you clean the window in a circular motion and jazz it up by swiping horizontally and vertically to avoid setting off any liquid stains or dirt.

Other tips include using tongs when cleaning window panes and blinds, using a lint roller on the window screens to remove the lint that might have found its way, cleaning/vacuuming the curtains, etc.

These were a few smart tips for washing home glass windows with sparkling shine. Keeping your house clean and hygienic is very important. Home is not just a place to live; it is an emotion. It houses millions of memories and fosters relationships, so you must get home insurance to protect this sacred space against any unforeseeable mishaps and situations. You can look for the benefits of the various home insurance options which are available in the market and purchase the one which suits your needs.

Click HERE to learn more about buying home 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.

Out of 195 countries, setting oneself apart from others is difficult. Most countries are either known for their rich resource endowment or their progress and economic significance. Over the years, India has continuously made optimal use of its resources to cultivate its financial position amongst other leading developing and developed countries. However, one thing that makes India genuinely unique is its rich cultural identity.

India is a land of deep-rooted culture and traditions. Ancient temples and practices are proof of the long legacy of the old civilizations that formed the fundamentals of society. There are over two million temples in India, proving the significance of heritage and spiritualism in the country. Of this enormous number, many temples have existed since the rule of the ancient kingdoms and are proof of the vibrant traditions and beliefs of Indians.

The easiest way to experience the diverse culture of the expansive land is by immersing in the historical archives engraved on the temple walls and sculptures. Before you plan your trip to explore these temples, we recommend contacting a general insurance company to purchase a comprehensive cover to compensate for any damages during travel. After checking that off, here is a list of ancient temples you must visit!

1. Mundeshwari Devi Temple:
Located in Bihar, it is said to be one of the oldest temples in the country, open to the public. The Archaeological Survey of India dates the temple back to 108 AD after consideration of its design and architecture. The temple is a shrine for Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga and is popularly known for its distinct octagonal design.

2. Somnath Temple:
Located in Gujarat, the Somnath Temple worships Lord Shiva. It is one among the 12 Jyotirlingas and holds great significance to the devotees of Shiva. The legend behind the temple also involves the Moon God. The temple initially held massive troves of treasures, which Mahmud of Ghazni raided during his attacks. Despite being destroyed, the temple has been restored and provides a peaceful environment to bask in its cultural significance.

3. Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple:
The gold-plated temple in Kerala is dedicated to Lord Padmanabha. Also known as the richest temple in India, the temple is thought to have existed for over 5000 years. The temple's wealth is estimated to be around 1 Lakh Crore Rupees, excluding a closed vault that cannot be opened until the chanting of the Garuda Mantra, an unknown chant.

4. Konark Temple:
The temple, built in the 13th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Orissa. Dedicated to the Sun God, its architecture sets it apart from other temples. It is designed based on geometric ideals, making it truly unique. The main temple had a suspended sun idol built using granite and magnets.

5. Dilwara Temple:
Dilwara Temple is an important Jain pilgrimage in Mount Abu built between the 11th and 13th centuries with intricate engravings. The exterior does not give insight into the grandeur of the exquisite marble carvings inside. The hilly terrain outside makes one appreciate the entire process of building the temple in an age without the convenience of transport vehicles.

6. Amarnath Cave Temple:
Situated in Jammu and Kashmir at a height of 3900 metres, visiting this shrine is an experience like no other. It is a naturally formed cave with a lingam of ice resembling Shiva's idol. Reaching the temple is challenging and requires significant effort and dedication.

While it is recommended to visit such divine places to uncover and understand the traditions and Indian heritage, it is also essential to pay heed to one's safety during the travel. A general insurance company provides excellent travel protection that one must consider before planning a trip.

Click HERE to buy travel insurance from the best general 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.

Who does not enjoy travelling? Being able to visit and explore new places, try local cuisine, click pictures, and enjoy the native culture of a place is the dream of every traveller. Travelling fills the heart and mind with a sense of euphoria. It boosts your happy hormones and uplifts your spirits. Hence, everyone must take at least one vacation every year.

What if you're a beach person looking for your next blue water beach holiday in India? This article is just for you. We recommend 05 top beach holidays where you can enjoy quality time in blue waters and golden sands.

However, no matter where you travel to, you should always have general insurance to back you up. You can check the general insurance online quote in advance and purchase insurance that provides comprehensive coverage for your luggage and ensures a safe trip.

Here's a list of the best blue water beaches in India.

1. Marari Beach, Kerala:
If you're a fan of Kerala, you should visit this beach. Located near Kochi, this beach is close to the Mararikulam village of Kerala. The waters are apparent here. It is also peaceful and full of lush green vegetation around the village. It is also rated among the top five hammock beaches in India. You can spend some quality time here with your loved ones.

2. Butterfly Beach, Goa:
Present in South Goa, you can reach this beach easily by taking a ferry ride from Agonda beach. It is one of Goa's hidden gems, unexplored by most travellers. Not many people are aware of the magnificence of this beach. It is picturesque and beautiful in every possible way. It is a haven for nature lovers. Many butterflies hover over the beach, making it all the more enticing.

3. Radhanagar Beach, Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
It is one of the most picturesque beaches on Andaman and Nicobar’s Havelock Island. It has clear blue waters and white sands to its credit. A line of coconut trees surrounds the coastline, making it all the more aesthetic. The sunsets here are a sight to behold. You also have the chance to participate in various water sports when you are here at the beach.

4. Varkala Beach, Kerala:
Also known as Papanasam Beach, Varkala beach is one of the most breathtaking beaches in Kerala. You will catch a stunning view of the Arabian Sea from the cliffs present at the beach. You can either sunbathe on the golden sands or stroll by the coast. This beach is serene yet beautiful. You can also go swimming in the waters and rejuvenate yourself.

5. Bangaram Beach, Lakshadweep:
With its jaw-dropping blue waters and white sands, this beach is a cheerful retreat to enjoy with close ones. It is secluded from the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach has brown rocks on all sides. It makes the beach all the more attractive. The beach also has unique bioluminescence at night. The blue waters glow and look starry.

Make these top beaches a part of your travel bucket list and plan a dreamy holiday to savour these destinations' mystic charm. Regardless of the places you want to travel to, always have general insurance to keep your travel covered. An ideal insurance policy will cover your expenses if you incur any damages while travelling or if your luggage is damaged or stolen. You should also check the general insurance online quote before you apply for any policy. Research the best options and invest in a plan that best suits your needs. Better be safe than sorry!

Click HERE to get a general insurance online quote.

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.

We all want to live and work in a peaceful environment that motivates us to always give our best. Silence boosts productivity and makes the surroundings blissful. Silence is required for various activities throughout the day. Whether studying, working, or even sleeping, loud noise can disrupt your peace and well-being. High levels of sound have many ill effects on an individual's physical and mental health.

Significant decibels of sound not only lead to noise pollution but also contribute to an unbalanced lifestyle. It can increase blood pressure and heartbeat. It is also highly harmful to kids and older adults. Increased exposure to noise can damage the eardrums in the long run. It also increases anxiety, frustration, and irritation and can even trigger migraines and anxiety attacks.

The simple way to tackle this problem lies in soundproofing. It is a great boon to humanity and helps in preventing unnecessary sounds. Everything can be blocked by using soundproofing at home, from construction noises to vehicle horns.

Before making any changes to your house, purchasing the best house insurance India is recommended to safeguard your home in emergencies.

Without further ado, let's have a look at the best tips and tricks for soundproofing quickly at home.

1. Make use of soft materials or fabrics:
It is a known fact that sound travels via waves. This means that hard materials like metals amplify the sound. The more iron, tin, or copper you have around, the more complex sound will travel through them. On the other hand, soft materials like linens, cotton, and silk absorb sounds. The more soft fabric you have in a room, the better. Your curtains, carpets, blankets, and rugs can contribute a great deal to absorbing sound. You can also invest in soundproof curtains.

2. Use acoustic frames:
It is one of the latest things available for absorbing sounds. They are wooden frames with foam intact in them. They are highly efficient in absorbing sounds. They can be hung on the walls for soundproofing. This also prevents the noise of adjacent rooms from entering the desired room. It is excellent for people who live in apartments or condos. Acoustic frames are available in various shapes and sizes as well.

3. Consider adding layers:
If your building is still in development or if you have access to renovations, consider adding a layer of drywall. This wall will separate your room from the outside world. It will also cut off all external noises and prevent them from reaching your room. The stronger the wall, the better. It is advisable to get it done with the help of professionals while building a new room.

4. Notice the doors:
The doors play an integral role in determining the amount of sound that enters the room. For starters, keep it closed at all times. You can consider adding weather stripping around the door knob or handle. This will prevent any unnecessary noise from entering or leaving the room. You can also make use of a soundproof blanket. It can be put at the back of your door and removed when not needed.

5. Pay attention to the floors:
Floors can also help in soundproofing. You can put carpets on the floor to absorb the noise from outside. If you want a more effective solution, you should use foam flooring. It can be easily added over the flooring present and does not require much effort for installation.

These are some great ways to prevent noise from entering your house. Implement these and reward yourself with a peaceful and soundproof environment. In addition, protect your home with the best house insurance India, as it helps you deal with financial expenses in case of mishaps.

Click HERE to buy the best house 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.