GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

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.

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT ONLINE CAR INSURANCE POLICIES? CLICK HERE TO KNOW MORE… 

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.

Are you happy with your existing car insurance policy and making repeat purchases from the same insurer every year? Your busy work schedule doesn't allow you to squander on choosing a new insurance plan or an insurance company every time your car insurance renewal is due. Anyone would know that renewing an existing policy is far easier and uncomplicated than looking for a new insurance company each time.

But do you know that your insurer also offers a certain level of loyalty appreciation to their existing customers? Most insurance companies offer reward points to their "mini-marketers" for renewing their policies, as these customers act as their company's brand advocates. They provide loyalty benefits to prevent policyholders from switching to other companies with competitive premium rates.

This article will explain 3 significant advantages of opting same insurance company for a car insurance renewal.

1. No Claim Bonus (NCB): Do you know that you get rewarded for not claiming your insurance? That's true; you receive the No Claim Bonus (NCB) when you have had a previous policy and have not made any claims during the policy period. The insurance company gives you a discount on your insurance premium as a reward in the form of a No Claim Bonus (NCB).

2. Decrease in Deductibles – enjoy surprising discounts: Few insurance companies offer you a reduction in deductibles for sticking with them. Usually, multiple factors determine the amount of reduction, like the number of claims-free years you have accumulated in your plan. Even in some scenarios, the car insurers entirely wave off your deductible. Meaning you don't have to pay any deductible at the time of the accident. Though it doesn't help you save any premium, you undoubtedly get cost benefits when filing a claim.

3. Buying a new policy – is it necessary? There are many other costs to starting up a new policy. For example, most insurance companies charge new policy process fees and might require a down payment. In addition, keep in mind that you will also lose the benefits at the time of car insurance renewal if you switch to a new insurance company. Therefore, considering the expenses mentioned above, the overall process of changing your insurance company could prove to be much costlier than what you would have initially anticipated.

Whether staying or not with your car insurance company is a personal choice. However, it is also good to get an insurance quote from other companies to keep up with car insurance renewal and market trends. In addition, there are other things to consider like customer service and claim service that are important for your decision.

Loyalty will nurture the relationship between you and the insurance company that will be beneficial for the long run. If you are satisfied with your current insurance company on the above parameters, there is no need to go around checking out new companies and giving up your loyalty benefits.

So, as you prepare to hit the "renew" button, consider these valuable points to get the privileged customer badge from your car insurance company.

Check out the best insurance plans for your car. Click HERE...

For adventure seekers, biking trips across India have become more common than you would have imagined. Bike riders are known for their love of long, challenging excursions and trips. For any bike owner, going cross-country is always on the bucket list.

A long-distance bike ride will put your riding skills and your bike’s endurance to test, so it is suggested to prepare thoroughly. Before starting your journey, make sure you have insured your vehicle with valid bike insurance.

While you have shortlisted your destination, we have also made this list for you to look at quickly:

• Tip 1 – You should plan a budget to spend on the trip and try not to exploit it.

• Tip 2 – Do invest in safety gear like helmets, gloves, jackets, glasses, shoes, knee elbow guards, and so on. Also, ensure that everything you buy is certified and genuine. Your safety is paramount for a pleasant trip.

• Tip 3 – Schedule a bike servicing right before leaving for the journey. Facing issues midway is certainly something you would not want.

• Tip 4 – Learn how to ride for long hours and the highways. Just starting with your tour is not how it works. You will have to practice at least a month before you begin the trip because these long journeys are the actual test of your endurance.

• Tip 5 – While packing for the trip, do not forget the following: two-wheeler documents, PUC, your ID (preferably Aadhar card), a spare key for the bike, and bike insurance papers.

• Tip 6 – Pack light for the ride. Don’t end up carrying the unnecessary weight. Be smart and only pack the bare minimum.

• Tip 7 – Be prepared for unexpected changes in the weather. When travelling for a long distance, chances are very high that the climate will keep varying.

• Tip 8 – Stick to your schedule and try not to take any detours. Install a GPS device on your bike and carry a physical map, which helps you navigate your journey.

• Tip 9 – Avoid late-night rides. Starting early and ending early is the bikers’ motto. Riding late at night can be tiresome as well as risky.

• Tip 10 – Stop at regular intervals. In your spare time, let your bike cool down, inspect it, or take some time for refreshments before you set off again.

• Tip 11 – Plan up an itinerary. Set a time for daily rides, breaks, stay and follow it.

• Tip 12 – Don’t miss out on the fun. You may face difficulties, but everything about this trip will be worth it. So, enjoy the ride and give yourself a break from the daily hustle.

The most important tip out of all is to ensure bike insurance before travelling anywhere. Keeping your two-wheeler insured is a step towards security and should not be neglected.

Put in some effort and follow the above tips to create an unforgettable journey to cherish for yourself. Good memories make great stories, so pick your bike and don’t miss the opportunity to do something thrilling in life.

To look for bike insurance online, click HERE...