GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

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

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

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

The issue before the knock-for-knock agreement:

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

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

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

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

Advantages of knock-for-knock agreement:

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

● Speedy settlement of claims

● Eliminates the need for the involvement of law

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

Conditions for knock-for-knock agreement:

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to buy reliable motor insurance in India.

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

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

What exactly is "anti-lock braking"?

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

What is the purpose of ABS?

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

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

What are the main components of ABS?

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

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

How is ABS used?

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

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

ABS benefits:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to buy online motor insurance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to buy travel insurance from the best general insurance company.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to get a general insurance online quote.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to buy the best house insurance India.

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

As the pandemic's effects subside and we return to offices, the stress associated with commuting has returned. Every weekday, most office workers face a huge challenge in the morning of whether travelling upwards of an hour one-way is worth their compensation.

Whether you choose private or public modes of transport, here are some tips and tricks to relieve stress from your daily commute.

1. Prepare the night before and leave earlier:
Hectic mornings increase stress levels during the commute, which results in irritation and reduced productivity. Worrying about being late every day can be very stress-inducing. To combat this, start preparing for your day ahead at night. Keep your work clothes and meals ready, and finish all your work. This will lead to a less stressful morning, resulting in you leaving 10 minutes earlier and not worrying about delays in reaching.

2. Try to commute actively:
Commuting via personal transport, such as a car or bike, can cause health issues. The best way to go about this is to walk or cycle as part of your commute if your work location is not far. This is known as an active commute, and it will drastically change the way you travel. Exercising on your way to work releases endorphins and improves mental and physical health. If walking or biking is not possible, try to take public transport. It increases your activity and reduces stress levels significantly.

3. Detach from the digital world:
In the age of social media, it is increasingly challenging to focus on oneself rather than what people on the internet are doing. It is essential to go off the grid for your mental health.
Your daily commute could be your time to read a new book, watch the view outside, or focus on yourself with meditation. Meditation has been a proven method of giving the brain the rest it deserves, and whether it be guided meditation or simply focusing inward, it will surely benefit you.

4. Try getting flexible hours:
It makes absolutely no sense sometimes that everyone has the same office hours. This causes the "rush hour," which is impossible to tolerate five days a week. If this is an option, ask your office for flexible hours, so you can come in before the rush hour and leave earlier too.
If this is not an option in your company, find some activities around your workplace before leaving for the day, like working out or reading a book in a nearby park. This way, you'll be able to avoid rush hour.

5. Try to buddy up for a long commute:
If you find driving incredibly dull and tedious, one way to improve it is to find neighbours who go to the same area for work and carpool with them. This way, the pressure of driving does not fall on you every single day, and you can chat with people along the journey. Ensure that you purchase new motor insurance or avail of online motor insurance renewal facilities to protect yourself and your car against the financial burden of accidents.

6. Stretch it out:
Keep stretching those aching muscles! Even when you're the one driving, always keep adjusting your neck and back, so they don't cramp up and give you further pain.

In conclusion, since long-distance commutes are an inescapable necessity in the urban lifestyle, effective management techniques are becoming essential to prevent strain on your mood and physical well-being. We recommend alternative commute methods to private transport for the best impact on your health. However, in case of no option but to travel by vehicle, ensure that you protect yourself against accidents. Check for your insurance status and get online motor insurance renewal before the due date.

Click HERE to know 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.

Buying a house can be an expensive but gratifying event. It is an extensive process involving multiple options and intense decision-making to create your dream house. After spending massive amounts of money, effort, and resources on your home, investing in house insurance India is prudent to protect your home, belongings, and more from uncertainties.

After spending massive amounts on purchasing your home, consider these DIY for your home's interiors to save on additional expenses. Equipped with the right tools, creativity, and zeal, you can take on any home DIY project! A painting project is the ideal task to test your skills and is manageable. Before you start painting, here are some tips to enhance the outcome of your DIY house painting project.

1. Purchase premium paint:
Make sure to pay attention to the quality of the paint. Every room in your house deserves a different type of paint, so keep that in mind. Choose paints with minimal volatile organic compounds and odour to keep your family safe. For your favourite walls in your house, choose a standout colour to create an accent wall.

2. Remove the hardware:
Remove light fittings, doorknobs, electrical cover plates, window locks, and window lifts. Store the components in a bucket. Tape the screws to each piece of hardware, and identify each one with its location to simplify future reinstallations.

3. Identify the type of paint on existing walls:
Test a patch to determine what colour was used there. Apply alcohol-soaked cotton to a small section of the wall. The paint is latex if there is paint residue on the cotton ball. If not, the colour is oil-based.

4. Inspect and prepare the area:
Before applying new primer and paint, check for any cracked or peeling areas. These need to be carefully sanded or scraped, as the weight of the new layer will loosen the old paint. A small amount of soap and water, followed by a rinse with clean water, may be required for greasy stains, followed by a wipe-down.

5. Paint from top to bottom:
Use your brush to start with the edges of the ceiling. Then use the roller to apply an even paint coating from top to bottom. Once you're done with a patch of the wall, leave it to dry. Continue the same process for the remaining patch of the wall. You might notice colour marks and streaks on the already-done patch. Now, get ready for the second round of coating. Ensure that your application motion is the same as the first round of coating to get a bright and evenly looking finish.

6. Fill in fractures, voids, and holes:
Examine the walls and trim carefully for flaws. Fix any holes, dents, and dings with wood filler, caulk gun, or ready-mix spackle, depending on the situation.

7. Safeguard everything you don't want to be painted:
Protect your flooring, furniture, and hardware before starting a painting project. Drop clothes are essential. Protecting door knobs with small plastic sandwich bags is a simple solution.

8. Use a paint grid:
A paint grid is an attachment to the bucket's rim. It facilitates the removal of extra paint and uniformly distributes it across the roller cover for consistent paint application.

9. Apply primer:
Paint and primer combinations work well if the surface is clean and smooth. However, use a different primer if it has been over eight years since the last paint job or if the wall has dents and scratches. Use a bonding primer to cover a hard surface, such as glass or high-gloss paint.

Interior painting projects require time, effort, and skill. While you can take on this task by yourself, the same does not apply to protecting your home. Consider purchasing house insurance India to protect your home against irreparable damage and prevent the depletion of your finances.

Click HERE to buy the best house insurance India.

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