GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Establishing a business can be challenging but not impossible. Many thoughts may cross your mind when you consider starting a business. Whenever you start a business, you need to take small steps to fuel your business growth. A small-scale business can take flight later and become a lucrative and flourishing venture. It is also a given that you will encounter many problems during your startup. These issues are generic and are experienced by every business. Hence, you must plan accordingly and prepare to face these challenges.

If you're a new entrepreneur looking forward to mapping the roadmap of your startup, then this article is for you. We have carefully curated a list of the common obstacles you may face in scaling your business. You should also know about public liability insurance prices before establishing your business.

We have mentioned the everyday problems of a business owner below.

1. Raising capital:
Every business needs enough capital to get started. It is the first prerequisite before a company is established. Putting initial investment can be overwhelming as you require it to run your business. It can put a lot of pressure on you as the owner. Hence, it is recommended that owners work a side job to generate capital for the business.

2. Dealing with work fatigue:
When establishing a business, you must devote more hours than others. The company becomes your sole responsibility; you still hustle even when you feel tired. Hence, you continue to give in extra work hours even when physically and mentally exhausted. This can lead to rash and unhealthy decisions that you can take in an unstable frame of mind.
It is recommended to take frequent breaks. You need to find a balance between your work and personal life. Try to incorporate the 8+8+8 rule (8 hours of dedicated hard work + 8 hours of proper sleep + 8 hours of personal time for family, friends, hobbies, and health).

3. Time management:
As a startup owner, you must manage most tasks throughout the day. This means that filing the paperwork, answering calls, attending meetings, and also employing others will be done by you. This can put you in a real-time crunch. You will fail to meet deadlines. You should always work out proper time and task management before starting your day.

4. Finding the right people:
When a small business is established, you must find skilled and trustworthy staff. Not only should they be qualified, but they should have the potential to adapt to the dynamic environment and evolve as their role expands. It can be a big challenge as most skilled people work in established companies. You must identify and sort through multiple applications before finding the ones you seek. It can take a lot of time and effort. Bring only those people on-board who have the same vision as you do.

5. Establishing a customer base:
Your small business will be unable to take off without the involvement of customers. It is their demand that helps set wings for your vision. However, it is a daunting task in itself. Customers might not know about you as you are not a big name in the market yet. They may also not trust you with their needs. It is advised to create effective brand awareness to attract the ideal customers.

These are some of the many obstacles small business owners face while setting up their enterprises. Entrepreneurship is a challenging journey that requires significant efforts but provides excellent returns. You need to be patient and resilient until your company takes off. We also recommend researching public liability insurance prices in advance for your business to protect your business from any lawsuits or claims made by employees or third-party.

Click HERE to buy public liability 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.

Certain privileges become accessible only after attaining a specific age. In India, the legal age to drive motorised vehicles is 18 years. If you have recently become eligible to drive legally, congratulations! Driving is one of the first activities that excite youngsters.

However, you must be extremely careful with your first vehicle. Reckless driving puts your life, car, and third parties in danger, so you must always practise safe driving and purchase the best car insurance in India to safeguard your finances. Regular car servicing is crucial to prevent frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.

Here are some essential car maintenance tips that all teenagers must follow if they have already obtained a driving licence.

1. Keep the manual accessible:
Four-wheelers are complex vehicles with several parts that require specific maintenance. Unless you are an automobile professional, it is unlikely to know every part's specifications. Do not shy away from using the manufacturer's manual as a guide to understanding details about your car. You can also find solutions to common problems like changing flat tyres and tips to jumpstart your car.

2. Don't neglect the battery:
An often overlooked auto part, your car's battery can leave you stranded when neglected. Dragging engine sounds are an early sign of a drained battery. Ensure to pay attention to such signs and turn off the engine, radio, cabin lights, etc., when not in use to prevent battery drain.
While most batteries claim to have a life of up to 6 years, they usually wear out within three years, depending on use, making it necessary to keep a check and replace it when you notice early signs of voltage drops.

3. Replace your windshield wipers:
Visibility is crucial to driving safely. Before turning on the ignition, ensure that your side and rear mirrors and windshield are clean. This ensures proper visibility of the incoming and surrounding cars to make appropriate judgements on the road.
Wiper blades enable the windshield to stay obstruction-free. Since they are made of rubber, they may wear out and leave streaks on the glass, making it challenging to drive confidently. Therefore, ensure that you periodically inspect the state of your windshield wipers and replace them when worn.

4. Pay attention to engine oil:
It is essential to pay attention to the heart of your car- the engine. The engine's functioning depends on the seamless working of several parts facilitated by the lubrication provided by the engine oil. If you do not replace your engine oil periodically as per the manual, excessive friction and contaminated oil may damage the engine parts. Leave this task to professionals to identify any issues simultaneously.

5. Check your tyres:
Irrespective of terrain, maintenance of tyres is an essential aspect of car upkeep that you must consider. It is critical to do so to ensure proper gripping and weight balancing to prevent accidents. Ensure you periodically rotate your tyres and check the air pressure, tread depth, and wheel alignment.

6. Replace your pedals:
The ABCs in a car- Accelerator, Brake, and Clutch are primary necessities that must function properly to ensure a smooth driving experience. However, frequent use leads to the wearing out of the ceramic pads over the metal discs that engage the systems. Therefore, keep track of the pedals' sound and thickness when your car is inspected to identify signs that the pedals require replacement.

As beginners, it is challenging to keep track of every minute detail. However, with time and relying on expert guidance and the car manual, it is easy to maintain your car's prime state. Ensure you regularly service your vehicle and purchase the best car insurance in India to take your mind off the safety aspect and allow you to focus on driving safely!

Click HERE to buy best car 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.

Nothing represents India better than big fat Indian weddings! Vibrant colours and never-ending streams of ceremonies are giveaway signs of a wedding-in-planning. However, while guests only see the wedding as well-planned, the staggering costs of planning a wedding in India have only grown over the years.

A wedding is a significant decision that impacts your finances. Irrespective of the size of the event, it involves extensive planning to design and execute that one special big day. Selecting a wedding destination is one of the first steps to facilitate the process. It is best to contact a general insurance company and take out a policy that covers potential financial losses against any substantial risks.

Choosing a perfect venue may seem like a challenging task. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can find the destination of your dreams without any hassle and future regrets!

1. Organise your requirements:
It is easy to get overwhelmed and do things out of order as they please you. However, without careful consideration, you are bound to make regretful choices. Before looking for destinations, make a physical list of some points to remember.
This includes the estimates of guests, the budget set aside for the venue, the kind of location you expect, and the sequence of activities and ceremonies. This will help you consider the site while keeping the facts in mind, making it easy to imagine whether or not the choice is right for you.

2. Pictures are only references:
Starting your hunt for the perfect venue a few weeks or months before the date is an absolute nightmare waiting to happen. However, if you choose purely based on images on the internet, the result is bound to be a disaster. Make sure you check the venue in person to ensure that it satisfies your criteria.
Booking in advance is a recommended step that allows you to avail of discounts and avoid settling for the substandard alternate after finding out that your ideal destination has already been booked.
If cancellations and uncertainties hold you from booking your venue in advance, consider discussing wedding insurance with your general insurance company that compensates in the event of cancellation.

3. Consider the distance:
While it is your wedding, you must consider the travel to the venue to ensure that it is convenient for your guests. Ease of accessibility and nearby or on-site accommodations are vital factors when choosing the wedding venue.

4. Check the venue rules:
Venues often have non-alterable rules. Carefully consider their policies before committing to the site, only to discover that the location does not allow any of your planned activities. If it is non-negotiable for you, ask for their adjustment. In case it is approved, ensure that you have it in writing as proof in the future.

5. Don't hold back your queries:
Asking too many questions may feel like a nuisance but clarifying everything is best rather than being confused. Do not shy away from asking all about the duration that the venue is let out for, accessibility, amenities, and other facilities. Make them aware of any special requests at the earliest to ensure that the organisers have enough time to accommodate your needs.

6. Consider the weather:
An outdoor wedding may be your dream, but it may not be feasible during the monsoon. Ensure that you consider the forecasted weather conditions' compatibility with your venue. Indoor weddings in elegant halls are highly preferred backup options that save the day.

Most importantly, avoid individually taking the responsibility of choosing the venue. It is ideal to delegate the task to a few close friends and family members who can help you find the perfect destination that satisfies you and is practical. You may even decide to hire professional wedding planners to make the occasion an exceptional one. It is also ideal to purchase a prudent cover from a general insurance company while planning your big day.

Click HERE to buy 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.

Motor insurance is a mandatory purchase that helps you safeguard your vehicle and alleviates monetary stress in case severe damages are caused to your car during accidents, collisions, and other unfortunate situations. And if you are aware of motor insurance, you must know about the premium charges, insurance coverage, add-on benefits, claims, etc.

These factors influence your decision to make a final choice of motor insurance amongst the different policies from various insurance providers. And purchasing motor insurance is not just a one-time deal. It requires renewal from time to time to avoid losing on the benefits. You can opt for online motor insurance renewal for a hassle-free buying process.

Are there some important tips one must know about while renewing their motor insurance? This blog will answer all your queries.

1. Browse through other policies:
With the ease of accessibility of the internet, consumers are at an advantage. They can find detailed information about the services provided by various insurance providers, which makes it easier for them to compare and analyse which policies would optimally suit their needs.
The availability of a calculator helps customers to calculate the premium charges of various policies of the same category. It also allows you to compare the benefits of different policies and enables you to decide which insurance provider gives you the best benefits at the best rates.

2. Go through those add-ons:
Additional benefits are definite game changers in attracting customers. Always check the add-on benefits of the policies before you finalise a policy. Zero depreciation cover, engine protector coverage, etc., are some of the add-ons that are definite indicators of an efficient and affordable policy.
These are necessary, especially for luxury cars, which depreciate as the years pass by a massive margin compared to vehicles in other ranges. You can upgrade your current insurance plan by including these add-ons and secure your asset with complete protection.

3. What is your car currently worth:
Knowing your car's current value is essential for you to get compensated by your insurance provider in case your car gets stolen. Being aware of your IDV or Insurance Declared Value helps you achieve the current market value of your vehicle through your motor insurance policy.

4. What happens if you make no claims:
If the policyholder does not claim for an entire insurance period, the insurance providers/insurers provide a No Claim Bonus to them as a reward. This No Claim Bonus is awarded as either a discount of twenty percent after the fulfilment of one policy year or as a fifty percent discount on the completion of five claim-free policy years. Using the No Claim Bonus at the time of your motor insurance renewal can help reduce the price of your premium charges by up to fifty percent as the years' pass.

5. Read all the conditions carefully before upgrading your policy:
We have all heard the "terms and conditions apply" and the warning related to "read all policy-related documents carefully before accepting any upgrade offered by the insurance company. You must go through all the clauses and conditions before renewing your motor insurance policy to be aware of the benefits, the conditions, and the type of plan you choose.
This will help you analyse if you wish to switch your current insurance policy to a new one based on your needs using the "portability clause." You must ensure that all your benefits are intact even after porting your insurance policies to avoid any hassle in the future.

These are some tips for upgrading your motor insurance during renewal. And while we have already discussed the benefits of motor insurance, you can now purchase one at your convenience without suffering through the exhaustion of consulting various insurance providers or their agents. Just opt for the online motor insurance renewal, explore and renew your policy from the comfort of your home.

Click HERE to learn more about 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.

Have you ever felt unproductive while having tight deadlines and no creativity or motivation to complete your tasks? You may be facing burnout and are among 40% of the Indian workforce. While it may seem challenging to get out of such a phase, the best way to overcome the symptoms of burnout is to step away from work and hit refresh! What better way to do so than going on a short vacation?

Considering the intense work pressure and hectic schedules, taking a leave may not always be possible. So why not make the best use of your weekends to drive away from monotony? Short road trips are the perfect way to meet your requirements without overspending. Considering the traffic-packed roads across the country, taking your bike on the journey may be ideal.

If you’re convinced, pack light, gather your friends, get your bike serviced, ensure all the papers are in order, and purchase two wheeler insurance online India. Pick a destination from our specially curated list to experience the joy of a quick getaway over the weekend!

1. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya:
Known as a quaint town, the wettest place on Earth is home to unique living root bridges that you must check out. With well-built expressways through scenic greenery, motorcyclists are in for a joy ride on this journey. We recommend starting from Guwahati or Shillong to experience the best of the town’s old-world charm.

2. Goa:
Planning a vacation without mentioning Goa, irrespective of duration, is impossible. With excellent connectivity to neighbouring states, the party capital is the best place to head to if you need tranquillity or happening parties. The ride through the picture-perfect Konkan belt will stay in your memories forever!

3. Ooty:
The rolling hills of Ooty and its lush greenery make for a serene getaway. Enjoy the view of far-reaching sprawling tea and coffee plantations as you drive through valleys on meandering roads.

4. Jaisalmer:
If rough terrains excite the motorcyclist in you, Rajasthan’s cities are the perfect destinations to plan your next road trip. A panoramic view of the beautiful blend of culture, heritage, and vibrancy will follow you as you make your way to the Golden City. Considering the arid surroundings, planning your trip between November and March is suggested. We urge you to purchase two wheeler insurance online India to cover any mishaps you may encounter during your journey.

5. Araku Valley:
At a little over a hundred kilometres away from the City of Vishakhapatnam is Araku Valley, a hill station with rustic heritage, tribal influence, and coffee plantations. While the journey may be short, the valley offers the best nature, biodiversity, and climate, making for a refreshing retreat.

6. Munnar:
If you fancy long-distance road trips, plan your next trip to Munnar, a hill station in Kerala. Its green hills, waterfalls, and tea plantations make for the perfect view on your journey, which may take up to 04 hours if you start from Kochi.

The other popular destinations include Lonavala, Karjat, Alibag, Nasik, Daman, etc. which promise a happening weekend setting for you to unwind and return with positivity and energy.

This list is not exhaustive and only includes some destinations you can consider setting off. While each destination has a unique appeal, we urge you to purchase two wheeler insurance online India before you depart on your two-day vacation! Safety should always be on top while planning bike trips. Wear proper gear and a helmet to safeguard yourself from any mishap.

Click HERE to buy two wheeler insurance online 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.

Riding a motorbike with smooth-shifting gears gives you a sense of pleasure that no other thing can. The feeling of downshifting into a curve, soaring your RPMs, then switching back into high and rushing down the straightaway is unmatched.

But when the quality of your clutch starts deteriorating, it no longer grips as usual or allows you to smooth down and upshift. If you take too much time to assess a bad clutch, it might leave you stranded during a ride. While the rest of the crew enjoy the journey, you will have to spend extra time repairing or replacing it.

However, knowing the signs of a damaged clutch will help you repair the appropriate pieces before you're left stranded.

In today's post, we'll discuss ways to assess if your clutch is on its way to being damaged. Read along to know how you can avoid costly repairs before it's too late.

1. Slipping of clutch:
The clutch slipping indicates that it has already begun to wear down. You may sense a lag or a slight jerk when your bike starts picking up. The RPM starts to increase faster than it should. If any of these occur, your bike's clutch is worn out, and it's time to get it repaired.

2. Sticking of clutch:
Your bike's clutch will start to stick if there is a malfunction or oil-induced dirt in the springs. It can either stick in or out depending on when the event occurs. The clutch parts will cling together as you change gears resulting in a low-power transmission. A sticky clutch might be mistaken for a general bike problem, so be extra cautious and get it diagnosed.

3. Hard to shift gears:
If your clutch wire is loose or the clutch gap is compressed, the bike will not accelerate because you won't be able to shift gears. When parking your bike, it's best to keep it in neutral, although some people leave it in first gear. So if you ever experience a slack in shifting gears, visit the mechanic.

Tip: To minimise clutch dislocation and overheating, always start your bike in neutral. Overheating the metal components causes them to expand, lowering the spacing distance. However, the clutch relies on friction to transfer power, so oil the parts regularly to avoid overheating.

4. Sharp metallic noise:
If you've recently noticed a strange sound emanating from your bike and it becomes louder as the days pass, it might be your clutch asking for attention.

5. Burning smell:
A burning odour may signal a clutch problem, which you should not neglect. If a mechanical noise accompanies the smell, you should have the clutch pad checked out as soon as possible to avoid any more damage.

These are some ways you can detect a problem with your clutch system. Make sure you always park your bike on neutral. Oil the clutch system periodically, but don't put too much oil. Never use the clutch as the braking alternative unless it's very needful, like in case of brake failures.

While you ensure your clutch pad, insure your bike as well, it will help you in case of mechanic visits for your clutch repairs and avoid additional expenses. Purchase bike insurance online and add value to your two-wheeler with the benefits of comprehensive coverage.

Click HERE to get the best bike insurance online right now.

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.

Manufacturing date, location, vehicle model, claims history with add-ons, and optional deductibles are a few variables that could impact your bike insurance. However, some other aspects could also influence the cost of insurance.

An essential factor in calculating the insurance premium is the two-wheeler's cubic capacity (cc), also known as its engine capacity. Continue reading to learn how your bike's cubic capacity affects its insurance cost.

What is the cubic capacity of a bike?

The capacity of your bike's engine is measured by its cc i.e., cubic capacity. A bike's engine size is essential since it affects how much power it can produce. A two-wheeler is thought to be stronger if its chamber is larger. Similar to how a four-wheeler vehicle's engine capacity is expressed in litres, a bike's capacity is understood similarly.

Bikes with higher cubic capacity come equipped with large cylinders that can produce extensive power output from the engine. This results in low fuel efficiency as more consumption is observed to drive more engine power output per stroke.

Bikes with higher cubic capacities are expensive. This is because intense mechanical fitness and build are required for the bike to withstand tremendous torque and power. Higher cc bikes have premium quality brake pads, comfortable suspension, and excellent exhaust that can easily overcome the wear and tear that might result from high-speed riding.

What effect does your bike's cubic capacity have on policy premiums?

Your bike's engine power is critical in the premium fixing process. The engine's cubic capacity affects the cost of your motorcycle insurance. A 75 cc bike would be less expensive to insure than a 220 cc bike. Take proper care of your bike's engine to guarantee that it operates smoothly.

Higher cc bikes would cost more to insure because your insurance rate directly correlates to your engine's cubic capacity (cc). When determining the third-party insurance rate, the IRDAI primarily considers the cc of your bike.

A bike's cc majorly determines the on-road cost of the bike. Low-cc bikes are less expensive than high-cc ones. The insurance premium for expensive bikes is more, considering their superior build quality and use of costly parts.

Other elements that affect the insurance premium for bikes with the higher cubic capacity.

Here are the various factors that influence the premium of the higher cubic capacity bikes:

● Geographic location: Compared to Tier II cities or rural areas, the premium is more significant if you stay in a metropolitan metropolis. Compared to non-metro regions, urban areas have a higher risk factor.

● Year of production: The age of the vehicle directly affects the insured amount. The insurance sum will decrease as time goes on since the bike loses value.

● Make and model of the bike: Premiums for high-end/premium bikes are higher; premiums for entry-level bikes are lower.

● Add-ons: In return for a more premium for bikes with higher cubic capacity, add-ons safeguard you against situations that aren't covered by the basic program.

● Installation of security measures: Lowering the danger of theft and the likelihood of damage by installing anti-theft devices or other security measures reduces the insurance price. By installing security devices, you can get a reduction in insurance premiums for bikes with higher cubic capacity.

Every bike driven on the road must be covered by third-party insurance. Therefore, in addition to looking at the bike's qualities before buying one, you should also consider getting bike insurance. Shop around to buy motor insurance online that best suits your needs and expectations. You can reduce the cost of two-wheeler insurance while maintaining adequate coverage if you heed the above suggestions.

Click HERE to buy motor 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.

The ever-increasing number of vehicles on Indian roads is constantly posing a risk to the safety of drivers, riders, and pedestrians. While purchasing the best two wheeler insurance in India is a mandatory requirement, several advanced technologies have also evolved to make motorcycle rides safer. These technologies are helping to reduce the number of accidents and enhancing road safety.

Let us have a look at them in detail.

1. Anti-lock braking system:
An anti-lock braking system or ABS is a technology that prevents a motorcycle’s wheels from locking when sudden brakes are applied. Hurried braking is usually used when an object or a vehicle appears suddenly in front of the bike. This may cause our motorcycle to skid and cause serious bodily injuries and even damage to the bike.
ABS makes use of speed sensors that are fitted on both wheels. It senses that a wheel lockup is about to occur and instantly reduces brake pressure. This prevents the motorcycle from skidding, preventing an accident.

2. Wearable airbags:
We have always known that cars come equipped with airbags that open up instantly at the time of a car crash. They minimise the impact of accidents and help to save lives. Most of us do not know that wearable airbags for bikes are now being made with the help of modern technology that performs a similar function as cars’ airbags at the time of a crash. Wearable airbags are put into a vest and can be worn with a compatible jacket. The airbag inflates during a collision and then deflates automatically. It cushions the rider and the pillion rider, minimising the crash's impact. These airbags can be a lifesaver and protect the upper half of the body. Also, these airbags are universal in nature and can be used with any motorcycle make and model.

3. Motorcycle alert systems:
Modern technology has enabled the incorporation of radar sensors that can scan our surroundings and identify potential dangers, even in motorcycles. These sensors can help us map the vehicles around us and alert us of any possible collision. They can also warn us of approaching vehicles or if a vehicle gets too close to us.
Motorcycles nowadays also come with sensors that alert us if our kickstand or side stand is open by flashing a light on the display panel. This helps avert a possible crash due to the open kickstand while riding.

4. Advanced lighting:
Motorcycles now have advanced LED lighting systems that produce optimal beams for enhanced street visibility. This minimises the chances of an accident due to poor visibility on the streets at night or during heavy fog conditions. Also, motorcycles have hi-technology illumination systems that enhance their visibility in poor light conditions.

5. Modern helmets:
Helmets are being made with advanced technology, making them lighter and sturdier. Modern-day helmets make our rides safer and protect our heads better than older models of helmets at the time of a crash.
Helmets nowadays also come equipped with hi-tech Bluetooth headsets and good-quality cameras. They help bikers stay connected during a ride, especially in difficult and risky terrains. The cameras are capable of capturing minute details during a ride. Riders can go through the recordings after finishing their ride and make a note of the possible improvements.

Modern technology is a blessing in reducing the number of road accidents. These innovations might cost us money, but they are worth every penny spent on them as they reward us with a safe journey. Two wheeler insurance also makes our motorcycle rides safer by protecting us financially in case of a crash. Choose the best two wheeler insurance in India to ensure complete motorcycle coverage and hassle-free claim settlement in times of need.

Click HERE to buy the best two wheeler 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.