GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

India has long been recognised for its illustrious past and imperial way of life. Its royal palaces were formerly the official residences of royal families but have since been turned into luxury historical hotels with old-world elegance and modern comforts.

Plenty of great palace hotels, particularly in the state of Rajasthan, are now open to visitors. You can visit these exquisite heritage hotels for your extended weekend plans and summer vacations. All of the listed hotels provide splendid service and a more personal experience.

Here are the four Indian palaces turned into hotels where you may indulge the maharaja inside you.

1. Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur:
The Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is a historic hotel with magnificent rooms and many grand suites. Its location on an island in the middle of the lake Pichola provides exceptional sights of the nearby Aravalli hills, City Palace and Jag Mandir from each room.
The breathtaking setting is ideal for the delicious cuisine served at Taj Lake Palace's fine restaurants, solely available to resident guests. Udaipur, dubbed as the Venice of the East, has a great deal to offer with its spectacular palaces, serene lakes, fascinating temples, and beautiful gardens.

2. The Lalit Grand Palace, Srinagar:
The hotel was designed and constructed by Maharaja Pratap Singh during the 1900s. It has witnessed significant events in India's history and proudly continues the royal lineage with elegance.
It maintains well-equipped luxury suites, including cottages with spectacular design, an ample dining space, and a retail arcade. This beautiful palace is surrounded by the Himalayan peaks and overlooks the gorgeous Dal Lake.

3. Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur:
This piece of art built between the 1920s and 1940s is part of Rajasthan's legacy and a symbol of contemporary Jodhpur. The palace, formerly home to the royal family of Jodhpur, is now the world's 6th biggest private property.
One common feature that this property shares with Agra's Taj Mahal is the palm court marble used in its design. The palace is situated on Jodhpur's highest point, the Chittar Hills. Get impressed with unique views of the old Blue City, vast dunes, and the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort as you stay here.

4. Rambagh Palace, Jaipur:
Rambagh Palace, established in 1835, was home to Sawai Man Singh II. This jewel of a hotel has magnificently refurbished big luxury rooms and suites that were the erstwhile Maharaja's bedrooms once upon a time.
The palace has been lavishly embellished with hand-carved marble and beautiful Mughal Gardens. Immerse yourself into the finest of Rajasthan's royal history within this splendid palace.

Heritage hotels in India provide a royal treatment to the inner maharaja inside you. They are as stunning, if not more so, than any of Europe's colossal castles or impressive palaces. These remarkable palaces ensure a great and unique holiday to be remembered for years to come. As you plan your visit to these genuinely magical places, make sure you add general insurance to your checklist. Get the best plans for yourself from the most trusted general insurance company and make your travel plans safe and stress-free this summer.

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.

The volatility of employment and predicting an incoming global economic recession are challenging. These make the consumers to save for tomorrow rather than spend on luxuries and comforts today. While motorcycles are cheaper than cars, they are by no means easy to afford with rising inflation, fuel costs, and other allied servicing costs.

This often leaves a majority of potential buyers to consider a second-hand motorcycle. While many have concerns about buying used motorcycles, by doing due diligence, inspecting the vehicle's mechanical condition, and purchasing two-wheeler insurance India, you can get your hands on a beneficial asset that can provide you with value for years to come!

Here is a checklist of bike parts and inspections to run through before purchasing a used motorcycle.

1. Engine:
The engine is the heart of any vehicle. To check the engine's condition, request the seller not to run the bike. A cold start is the best way to gauge the engine's usage and wear and tear. Look out for smoke from the exhaust pipe or any sputtering noises. Oil leaks are another sign to keep a watch for.

2. Drive chain and sprocket:
While these components may seem highly technical, they are readily identifiable parts in all two-wheelers. Simply put, it refers to the bike chain and the chain wheel, which facilitate gear engagement, acceleration, and power transmission.
Ideally, the chain should only have a slack of three-fourths of an inch to function appropriately and should not shift off the wheel when prodded. If the wheel displays signs of corrosion or wear and tear, it indicates a poorly-maintained bike. Ensure you list your dissatisfactions and factor them in when negotiating a fair price with the seller.

3. Tyres:
Well-maintained tyres are essential for a safe riding experience. Put the motorcycle on its centre stand and check its tread depths. Ensure that they are not too deep, which results in poor gripping and an excess risk of accidents. Cracks along the inner side or rubber toughening are signs of weathered tyres.
Also, check the wheel alignment by spinning the rear wheel. Any wobbling or creaking are indicators of weathered wheel bearings which require replacement. Ensure you check the tyres thoroughly to estimate the cost of repairs and acquisition of the used motorcycle.

4. Visible frame:
The motorcycle's frame can be challenging to inspect depending on the effort spent to spot the issues. Scratches and dents may be the signs of accidents that inevitably affect the overall functionality of the bike's components.
In case you purchase such bikes, even after buying two wheeler insurance India, you may not be able to claim the insurance amount due to the vehicle's poor condition before the accident.

5. Under-seat storage:
An often overlooked part, the under-seat storage locking mechanism, must be checked when purchasing the vehicle. Feel around the space underneath the seat to ensure that it is steady to fit your belongings.

6. Odometer:
Contrary to popular belief, it is easy to replace an odometer. Sellers of old vehicles can tamper with the odometer and try to sell off an old bike as a relatively new one. After inspecting the motorcycle as per the above checklist, check the odometer reading. Ensure that it is aligned with the condition of the vehicle.

While this is not a comprehensive list, it covers the essential things to check before purchasing a used motorcycle to protect yourself from misrepresentation and unfavourable deals. Additionally, since used bikes have a relatively unsafe perception, we recommend buying 2 wheeler insurance online to protect yourself from the risk of financial losses due to accidents.

Click HERE to buy a robust 2 wheeler insurance online for your motorcycle.

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.

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.

Various fitness trends have come and gone since the 2000s, but people are still looking for new ways to get fit. With the global pandemic hitting us, people now prefer to work out in their homes because of the government’s orders to close gyms. As a result, online gym classes are also on the rise. Let us look at the upcoming fitness trends in 2022.

Riding a two-wheeler is the perfect way to beat traffic on busy roads. Every bike enthusiast who desires to ride their choice of a two-wheeler can rent a bike to explore unexplored destinations. You can rent them as long as you want without worrying about maintenance or other concerning factors.

Additionally, travelling on a two-wheeler is best to explore a new city or destination. It’s fascinating to see new sights and meet locals to spend quality time. This blog has highlighted some of the most practical tips to ensure a safe and memorable riding experience when you rent a bike. So, let’s dive into the details!

1. Take your time and inspect your vehicle:
Don’t get carried away and end up choosing a bike based on its appearance rather than its performance. Ensure that the brakes, engine, lights, side mirrors, and other essential features are working properly. Take a test ride of the bike you’ve chosen so that you can identify the minor to major problems. If you happen to find any damage or visible dents, take a picture of them so that you’re not accused of harming the bike.

2. Choose a bike based on your ability:
Do not go for a bike that is not suited for you. It will help if you do not opt for expensive bikes unless you have the money to pay (in case of damages) or put a dent in them. Similarly, stay away from bikes providing you with cheap rental rates. There are chances that the “cheap” rented bikes are either damaged or have issues that may land you in a problematic situation. Instead, choose according to the vehicle’s weight, acceleration, and the purpose of your renting. Ensure that the selected vehicle is well suited for the roads you intend to ride, providing you with a safe, less risky, and smoother experience.

3. Go through the reviews of the rental company:
Most bike rental companies tend to attract customers with low rental rates. Do not fall for the trap and choose bikes that have travelled many kilometers. Always check that the bike rental service has a good reputation and customer reviews.

4. Keep your license and bike papers handy:
Always check the validity of your licence before renting a vehicle. Carry your licence and the bike papers wherever you go. Ensure that your bike rental service company provides you with insurance, bike registration number, and pollution under control certificate.

5. Carry essentials:
Keep essential spares like a spare tube, spark plugs, brake, and accelerator cables. Prioritise your safety by always wearing protective gear while riding. Ensure the safety gears and helmet are in good condition and of the best quality. There’s a brilliant range of motorcycle luggage saddlebags available in the market. You can keep the saddlebags on the back or side of your bike or tanks that can carry light stuff. Furthermore, put your health and safety first and carry first aid kits with all the needed tools and medicines.

Two-wheeler renting can be made hassle-free by following these handy tips. Self-riding bike rentals offer you the freedom to choose and travel at your convenience and pace at reasonable rates. Make your daily commute comfortable by using a rented bike. But, you shouldn't neglect safety at any point. Ride with proper safety gear and ensure that you collect all the required documents like the PUC and even the insurance papers to verify that the vehicle is insured by the best two wheeler insurance in India. Thoroughly conduct these practices before renting the two-wheeler to have a flawless experience.

Click HERE to browse through 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.

People are emotionally attached to their car so much that even a small scratch or dent woes their heart. What bothers them more is when the car makes strange noises. This situation sometimes leads to trouble. So instead of panicking, you need to understand the underlying cause and take your vehicle to a mechanic if required.

We've created a list of seven common car noises to listen out so that you identify and then fix them at the early stage itself.

1. Squealing sound:
One of the most frequent noises is a screeching sound from under the hood. It hints that the rubber belts that drive accessories such as AC compressor or power steering pump have either slipped off or worn out. If the screeching originates from the wheels when you use the brakes, it might indicate that your brake pads are weary or have faults with the braking system. On the other hand, if the squealing comes from your tyres, it may be due to a loose wheel cap or rims.

2. Hissing sound:
This sound underneath the hood indicates a fluid leak onto a hot engine component—for instance, radiator coolant seeping onto the engine block or exhaust manifold. If the hissing occurs while you accelerate, it might result from a vacuum leak from one of the small hoses around the engine's air intake.

3. Rattling sound:
Rattles suggest that something is loose or has stuck itself in an inappropriate place. For example, a component of the exhaust or suspension might have been broken loose. Mind it; this one needs attention as soon as possible. Remember, if you need an expert mechanic to ensure preventative maintenance, suitable car insurance helps you with your costly repair bills.

4. Whistling sound:
Whistling sounds are disturbing and might indicate a vacuum leak in one of the hoses around the air filter, which can be challenging to locate but is typically straightforward to fix.

5. Clunking sound:
If you hear a clunking sound when you apply the brakes, it might reflect that the braking discs or pads have severe wear or damage. If the clunk occurs when driving over bumps, your car's suspension may be faulty, or an exhaust section may be loose. If your automobile clunks when turning corners, it might be due to a problem with the steering or a worn-out wheel bearing.

6. Roaring sound:
When you accelerate, a roaring or noisy exhaust indicates that the existing exhaust system has eroded to the point that the silencer is no longer keeping the car quiet. Although an exhaust problem is unlikely to cause your automobile to stop or cause more damage, it may be allowing carbon monoxide fumes into the cabin, which is hazardous. Get it fixed ASAP!

Next time when you're out for a drive, apart from listening to the music, make it a point that you hear your vehicle first. You won't want to experience an awful drive with crazy noises that result in the breakdown of your car midway.

Few noises may indicate possibilities of damages. It is, therefore, important to get your car inspected at a service station to address the issue. Additionally, with time, the repair cost will also keep on increasing. So, reduce dependencies on the additional expenses, and consider purchasing car insurance to add value to the life of your car. With the best car insurance protection, give your four-wheeled companion the strength to drive more miles together.

Click HERE to know about the best car insurance plans in the market in 2021.

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.

In a busy and constantly moving country like India, most of the population uses two-wheelers as the daily mode of transportation. Regardless of whether you ride your two-wheeler every day or just a short trip to a grocery store, it is a good idea to carry some essential items in your two-wheeler riding kit. This includes everything from motorcycle replacement parts, first aid kit to important documents and 2 wheeler insurance.

In this article, we'll tell you exactly how to put together a riding kit that will be an excellent aid in chaotic situations.

1. Keep the basic spare parts:
You should always have some vehicle spare parts and equipment handy so that you can be the mechanic of your two-wheeler during an emergency. A few extras to have in your tool kit are a screwdriver, a headlight bulb, and battery fuses.

2. First-aid kit:
First-aid kits have always been prioritized when driving vehicles, but how many of us religiously carry them? If NO, then pack one today and take it the next time you leave your home on your two-wheeler. Some fundamental essentials must be an antiseptic solution, bandages, pain relief sprays, and painkillers. However, this kit is to be used only on minor injuries like cuts and scratches. In case of significant damages from accidents, approach for assistance and go to the hospital right away.

3. Accessories for personal protection:
Riding on a bike is not a fun game each time. It can get tougher with distance and situations. It is dangerous to ride a two-wheeler without wearing a proper helmet. A full-face helmet should always be part of your riding kit. Also, ensure to kit up appropriately with something that is breathable and will keep you at ease. Hence, have a decent quality sunscreen or scarf to protect your skin from exposure to the sun, dirt, and pollution.
Besides, staying hydrated throughout the day is important and neglecting it while riding isn't an option. So, having a water bottle on your bike is always a good idea.

4. Necessary documents and paperwork:
Traffic police regularly drive campaigns of checking the legal papers. If found riding without legitimate documents, you can face the consequences by the authorities. Therefore, when travelling on your bike, it is mandatory to have a Rider's Driving Licence, Registration Certificate, PUC Certificate, Fitness Certificate and a valid 2 wheeler insurance policy.

It is believed that 'life is always better on two wheels'. However, in a country full of turns, traffic congestion, narrow lanes and potholes, the possibility of vehicle breakdown is a prime concern among two-wheeler riders. So, if you think that you're a pro rider, you're also not completely safe on the roads. The above essential items are for your convenience on the road and quick-fix minor issues when they arise. Keeping these points in mind, put together your necessary bike riding equipment, ensure your bike papers, including valid 2 wheeler insurance before you kick-start the bike next time.

Want to know more about our best two-wheeler insurance policy? Click HERE .

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.

Diagnosis is the point around which judgement and logical reasoning move, bringing the light of scientific clarity. Therefore, the detection of a sickness or health condition should be an essential component in the practice of medicine or surgery. It serves as the cornerstone or foundation for the doctor to develop a treatment strategy and determine the prognosis.

Early diagnosis is better as it gives us ample time to decide the treatment. Also, it saves us from worrying about the severity of the illness.

The significance of early diagnosis:
According to a significant analysis of the benefits of early detection, a diagnosis frequently meets with skepticism, anger, loss, and sadness. Critically, how patients are notified about their results and the degree of care available to them and their families determines their response.

Advantages of early diagnosis:
An early diagnosis and access to the appropriate resources and support may assist people in taking control of their illness, planning for the future, and living a healthy life. In addition, it will help in ruling out the chance of other potentially curable diseases and other alarming health concerns.

It can help a person acquire access to critical information and resources, make the most of their skills, and perhaps benefit from available drug and non-drug therapies. A quick diagnosis allows a person to be vocal and explain the changes in their life to family and friends. On a practical level, a person may assess their financial status and consult with family or legal specialists about establishing a lasting power of attorney or an advance decision.

There is significant evidence that a sooner diagnosis improves the quality of life. It avoids premature or needless admission to a care home or hospital, improving the way of life for patients and their caretakers while saving money on long-term care expenditures. The earlier a person gets diagnosed, the more successful the treatment can be.

Why some individuals may object to an early diagnosis:
According to a study, common illnesses are people's most significant concern in old age, surpassing cancer and any other ailments. Yet, some with early indications of these diseases opt not to seek a diagnosis due to concerns about the impact on their everyday life, employment, social lives. The anxiety overpowers the thought of obtaining proper medical treatment in the initial stage itself. Moreover, if early detection is ignored, it may worsen the situation for the patient to sustain treatment and recovery.

However, the benefits of an early diagnosis far outweigh these concerns, and a person suffering from a curable disease can receive the appropriate care and support to be fit again.

Indeed, the sooner the diagnosis, the better. The reason to attribute this comprises the excellent therapies that effectively cure the early stages of the sickness. Diagnosis allows us to treat a problem before it progresses to an ultimately lethal stage. Never fear your health. Take charge of it and keep yourself mentally strong to tackle the situation with vigour.

Additionally, make it a habit to invest in health insurance for you and your family to ensure your well-being and lead a less stressful life. Insurance firms provide exclusive incentives and benefits to those investing in online health insurance plans.

To get your online health insurance, click HERE .

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.