GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

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.

LOOKING FOR THE BEST CAR INSURANCE RENEWAL POLICIES? CLICK HERE TO KNOW MORE

Children are full of energy, and therefore they tend to have a higher risk of being injured in a moving vehicle. Ensuring the maximum safety of your child is an essential part of parenting, and the same is applicable when you are travelling with your kid.

Especially if you have a toddler, you have a higher responsibility of ensuring their safety. Although Indian law has not made having a child seat mandatory, you as a parent can take numerous measures for your child. Ensuring the safety of your car and yourself is equally important as accidents, and unwanted situations occur uninvited. Search for online car insurance and buy one ideal for you if you haven't purchased the right insurance policy yet.

Here are five reasons why you must have a child seat.

1. Safer compared to holding the child in arms:
One of the common myths parents believe is that holding your baby in your arms will protect them better. However, when an unwanted situation arises, your arms may not be sufficient to hold your kid tightly.

2. Seat belts are not convenient for kids:
Irrespective of the car you own, all the seat belts are designed from the adult's body perspective. In an accident or when you pull a sudden break, this may result in the baby falling and getting injured. Child seats are comfortable, and they keep the baby safe from jerks and bumps.

3. Lack of concentration while driving:
Most parents are worried about what their child is doing in the back seat or whether they are safe when they do not have a child seat in the car. Parents constantly look at their children while driving, and this distraction can cause accidents. Having a child seat will ensure they do not move and are protected with a comfortable seat belt. This will help you to just concentrate on the road and your car.

4. Kids are incredibly active:
Kids are filled with energy most of the time. A baby can try to open the dashboard, attempt to open the door and injure themselves. A child seat will ensure your kids do not attempt to act unsafely.

5. A newborn should only travel in car seats:
The most common myth is that parents believe their newborn is highly fragile in a car seat. However, the truth is, they should only travel in a car seat. A child seat is designed in a way that ensures the safety plus comfort of the baby.

Things to know before picking the right child seat:

• Pick a seat that meets the safety standards set by the country. You can see this on the label of the child seat.

• Learn how to install the seat. The label has all the instructions, plus there will be someone in the store who will assist you or help with the first installation.

• Make sure to fill the product registration form. Furthermore, check out the warranty and the brand's name by doing a little research about it on the internet and checking the reviews. Since it's a question of your child's safety, be cautious while picking the right one.

There are professional companies involved in making a child seat with expertise and immense research background. If you are travelling with a baby, having a child seat should be your priority as a responsible parent. And, as a responsible owner, getting online car insurance should be the next thing on your priority list. Implement all these points, and then you are all set to go on joy rides with your child.

Click HERE to know more about an online car insurance policy.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.