GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Home is a name, a word, it is a strong one; stronger than magician ever spoke, or spirit ever answered to, in the strongest conjuration. –Charles Dickens

You’ve made the big decision to purchase a dream house: reality is finally sweeter than your dreams! Congratulations.

A house is a matter of pride and a big commitment for many many years. A house is probably one of the biggest investments you will ever make: a dream you would like to protect.

While there is little we can do against natural disasters, we can reduce some of the hardships by having home insurance, which protects against any damage to the house and valuables in it.

Home insurance is poorly sold in India; People are either not aware of home insurance or are reluctant to buy it. They don’t see the risk to their property—be it fire or an act of terrorism; and of course, it always happens to other people!

A lost life cannot be regained, but a lost house can be rebuilt and it doesn’t cost much.

Here is what our Truth lens tells us:

A good policy covers for financial loss arising out of various incidents such as fire, earthquake or burglary. It covers, not only for structural damage but also for all other assets and possessions you may have, right from a rug to a refrigerator.

Here are a few things to consider:

One, the Cover

At the basic level, a standard fire and special perils policy covers your structure and possessions from fire and other dangers such as earthquakes and storms. The second level of coverage protects against burglary or breakdown of mechanical and electrical appliances. The last one protects against minimal risks such as loss of rent, loss of important documents such as title deeds and passport, and provision for alternate accommodation.

Two, the Sum Insured

While the value of your house is based on three factors - land, cost of construction for the building and prevailing real estate prices – the insurance only covers for the building’s cost of construction. Most insurers will offer a standard rate per square foot multiplied by the carpet area of your house. The rate offered also considers depreciation. Therefore, it is important to go for a reinstatement cover. This covers for rebuilding your home from scratch, assuming the worst.

Three, Compliance

If you are living in an urban high-rise, your flat alone cannot be rebuilt in case a big calamity hits the locality. It is the housing society’s responsibility to insure the entire premise. Talk to the society management and figure the kind of insurance availed of and what supplementation you need. The insurer will not cover for poor or unauthorized construction and you don’t want to be left high and dry in the event something goes wrong. Taking 2 insurance policies for the same asset will not result in double benefits! [This is based on the principle of indemnity, and the more technical oriented amongst us can click here to read more about it]

Time period: Home insurance can be bought for a minimum of one year to a maximum of five years. Do remember to renew.

Fine print: Home insurance policies are worded differently. For example, structure insurance may only be for building and not land, or only jewelry kept in the locker may be covered.

Tenants: If you are living in a rented house, you can insure only the contents and not the structure as you don’t own it.

You have arrived at the airport and are excited about your holiday. But for some reason, your flight is delayed. Maddening! Right? You begin to feel irritated as all the thrill starts disappearing. You have no idea how to pass the time at the airport. Even the noise and chaos further grow your disappointment.

Fortunately, there are lots of activities you can do to occupy yourself while waiting for the airplane to take off. You will notice that an airport is a sizable facility with various entertainment options. Therefore, before you get to your destination, wait patiently, and tour the airport's many areas. Put yourself in "vacation mode" and leave the bustling world behind.

Here are a few things you can do in airports to pass the time as you wait for your flight.

1. Display your photography prowess:
If you enjoy taking pictures, the airport offers interesting opportunities to capture props, aircraft, artwork, and architectural structures. You can even take candid pictures and make portraits of the individuals nearby. Start by putting your hesitation aside and enjoy yourself as you take amazing images and start making beautiful memories right from the start of your trip. However, be cautious, as photography is prohibited at some locations at the airport.

2. Browse the kiosks or shop at duty-free:
The duty-free shops at the airport have some incredibly affordable offers. You name it: clothing, alcohol, and chocolates! Even though some stores are pricey, you may pass the time by browsing various goods if you have no other choice. It's an excellent strategy to stay active and finish any unfinished tasks.

3. Use the free Wi-Fi:
Suppose you are not interested in moving around. Still, we have a fix for you! Worldwide, free Wi-Fi is available in most airports. Your favourite web series is available for viewing after turning on your Wi-Fi. There are free things in life sometimes! But don't use a public Wi-Fi network to access your bank accounts or anything private.

4. Talk to others:
People from many places are seated together in an airport like a miniature world. Additionally, it's a great place to meet new people and mingle. Avoid just bursting into people. Talk to them and find out about their country and neighbourhood. You must always be open to making new friends on the go!

5. Observe:
Suppose you don't like engaging with others. You can just watch them; there won't be any interaction or information. The airport is the perfect place full of travellers from all parts of the world. If you are an artist, noticing things can help you write or copy articles.

6. Read a book:
The best way to enjoy your company and kill time at the airport is to pick your favourite book and engross yourself in reading. There can't be any better experience than involving a substance that entices and refreshes you by just turning pages.

7. Sleep off:
If none of the choices appeals, you may take a nap and rest for a while. Pick a seat in a corner or access the lounge if you can, turn on your favourite music, and set the alarm for a quick nap.

If you're stuck in an airport, we hope these solutions will be helpful. But be aware of the updated details of your flight and stay alert on the announcements. Also, check your luggage in case you are waiting for a long time. It is advised that you purchase travel insurance to protect your trip. The travel protection under the general insurance India policy covers unexpected events like a delayed flight, missing checked baggage, and more.

Suppose your general insurance India plan includes luggage insurance. In that case, your insurer may be able to reimburse you, up to the limit specified on the confirmation of coverage, for covered loss, theft, or damage to your baggage and personal belongings.

Click HERE to buy the best general insurance India plan to make your travel hassle-free.

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 this hustling world, everyone wants to save the most valuable aspect of their life – time. Finding out time for household chores feels like an impossible task in the middle of your tight schedule.

But, many gadgets and appliances have made the way to clear the chaos and get things convenient for you. From the start of our day until we retire, we encounter several devices that work as our assistants and eliminate the worries of most household tasks.

Below you will learn some of these intelligent home appliances that make your life easier.

1. Speakers with AI and Bluetooth – technology reimagined:
Apart from listening to songs, we can use smart speakers to remind every major-minor event or daily tasks such as paying the bills, recharging your internet pack, weather forecasting, news, and what not. The exciting feature is that it also operates by voice recognition feature. You may even integrate your smart speakers with your other smart home devices to enjoy a fully customizable and command-driven home environment.

2. WIFI/portable routers – make smarter connections:
The Internet has become new oxygen for the globe. Constant evolution in the WIFI system like portable routers and mesh WIFI systems are trending and valuable for the smart home network that connects all your smart devices.

3. Smartwatches – the world around your wrist:
Smartwatches are a great invention that looks classy and way more productive than just showing time. Get all the notifications and regular updates without touching your mobile. Additionally, it's the best investment for health by keeping your active schedule with your walks, work-out, and counting calories burnt.

4. Innovative kitchen appliances – cooking made fun:
Smart refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves can be paired with your smartphones through helpful apps and make the cooking experience more enjoyable than we could ever imagine. These appliances would do the task in minutes which you finish in hours with your bare hands.

5. Laundry appliances – happy clothes, happy wardrobe:
Fully automatic washing machines with timers, clothes dryers are the appliances that have become popular and essential in the last decade. They are an excellent example of time-saving and doing your laundry easier and faster.

6. Living room appliances – feel like the 'modern king':
It is where we tend to spend more time with our guests and visitors. You can easily interact and schedule the smart lights, automatic blinds, Smart TV and sound system and turn your living room more automated to your requirements.

7. Smart doorbell/locks – safety redefined:
Safety is the biggest concern for homeowners. Using an intelligent doorbell system, remote control of door locks, and security cameras will bring a good change in your life by making you feel secure. Also, the house insurance premium goes down when you add a layer of security to your home. This way, you guarantee yourself a peaceful sleep at night and the shield of double protection from unfortunate incidents like burglary for your home.

You can make your home a lot more automated by using these intelligent electronic appliances and gadgets. Imagine cooking in your microwaves from anywhere with your smartphone and receiving alerts when the food is ready.

The constant upgrades and new appliances make way to your home and give you the upper hand to manage the daily household work. Some of these items are expensive devices to install in your house. A suitable house insurance plan can provides you compensation for the damages caused due to fire, theft, or man-made hazards or any vandalism. Get house insurance for the financial security of your insured belongings and enjoy your life with the golden-age technology appliances.

Are you looking for a best home insurance in India for your new home? 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.

Technology is undoubtedly a key driver for the economic growth of a country. Fuelled by the revolution in internet connectivity, it has evolved over the years and made many advancements. As a result, it plays a significant role in improving people's lives in every field, including the transport industry. Truck drivers encounter multiple issues in their day-to-day life, but the latest introduction of technology in truck drivers' lives has made things smoother for them. In this post, we share how technology is making the life of truck drivers easy on the wheels.

1. ELDs – Electronic Logbook Devices:
Truck drivers are required to manually fill forms or papers to enter the number of hours they drive. To avoid this hassle, ELDs are attached to the engine, which automatically calculates the number of driving hours. Besides, ELDs also assist in helping the truck driver with fuel consumption by the truck. Another perk of these devices is that it monitors the driving route and thus helps the truck driver's safety. Furthermore, if truck drivers encounter accidents, ELDs play a crucial role in proving the evidence.

2. Load boards:
Load boards are another vital tool used to find new shippers who need to haul their loads. This is widely used by truck drivers, owners, freight brokers, and more. You can go to load board sites and enter all the necessary information, including types of loads you can haul, weight allowance, and currently available destinations. Once you fill up all this information, shippers can contact you.

3. GPS systems for truck drivers:
GPS units are a standard device that assists truck drivers to reach their destination quickly with the shortest route. It avoids unnecessary travelling for them and results in efficient delivery. In case of traffic jams and bad weather conditions, the drivers can avoid those routes and save fuel and time.

4. Best use of smartphones:
Smartphones are excellent technology examples that are helpful for truck drivers. Through smartphones, truck drivers can communicate seamlessly and share their exact locations. This is also crucial for knowing how long the truck driver will take to reach their destination. Additionally, you can use smartphones to check out the nearest gas stations, accommodations, and more. During the breaks, truck drivers can use their phones for entertainment, such as listening to their favourite music or watching shows and movies.

5. Hands-free communication:
Voice assistant devices and other hands-free communication devices serve great purposes for truck drivers. Using hands-free communication devices ensures their eyes are on the road while informing people about their route. Since we all are aware of the consequences of holding a phone while driving, truck drivers can use hands-free communication devices and stay in contact with the dispatcher. This is also essential when the driver is confused about the exact route and needs guidance.

It is no surprise that technology innovation is pushing the limits and changing how the transport business functions and improving life on highways. However, as the industry evolves and expands, it also requires safe cover for efficient operation through motor insurance. Good motor insurance addresses the worry of mishaps on the road and puts you away from unwanted risks. Thanks to the technology, you can have online motor insurance renewal even on the move from your smartphone. So, use the technology advancement to your advantage and remain ahead in the business!

To know more about motor 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.

As the world steers towards sustainable mobility solutions, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a promising answer to the environmental concerns associated with traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. India, too, is making significant strides in the EV market, with the government's commitment to promote electric mobility.
India's ambition to electrify its transportation system is evident in its National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) and Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) schemes. These initiatives aim to encourage EV adoption by offering incentives, tax breaks, and promoting charging infrastructure development.
As more consumers switch to EVs, the focus on battery technology and its maintenance becomes pivotal after all the battery is at the heart of this technology revolution. And with the growth in this market, there arises a need for a tailored insurance solution as well.
However, many motor insurance companies still do not provide any specialized coverage for EV and HEV batteries, resulting in a void in this fast-developing sector. However, forward-thinking insurance companies are recognizing the opportunity and starting to offer specialized coverage for batteries.
In response to this demand, Magma HDI General Insurance has taken a proactive step by introducing a product: "Battery Secure Add On" This specialized insurance offering is designed to address the unique requirements of electric and hybrid vehicles.
What sets "Battery Secure Add On" apart is its comprehensive coverage of critical EV/HEV components, with a primary focus on the battery. This coverage extends to repair and replacement costs arising from various scenarios. For instance,

• If the battery is damaged as a result of an unexpected power surge while charging or Experiences consequential harm from a short circuit or water ingress, "Battery Secure Add-on” has it covered.

• Moreover, " Battery Secure Add On" goes beyond battery coverage alone. It recognizes that electric vehicles encompass a range of specialized components that differ from traditional combustion-engine vehicles.

• This insurance product also safeguards other electric-specific elements, such as the electric motor, ensuring holistic protection for the entire EV system.

Click HERE to learn more about the product.

Yes, we understand your problems, and the struggle is real when it comes to cars that stop suddenly, giving no hints of starting.
It can be a real deal when your lovely ride stops in the middle of a road and deny your orders to start. Having a car that stops suddenly can lead you to grave danger, especially when you are outside and need to go somewhere.
Interestingly, as easy as it is for your car not to start, similarly, there might be a principal reason behind the same. Therefore, let’s have a look at four common reasons why your car is not starting.

● Your timing belt is the real problem:

For those of you who don’t know what a timing belt is, it is an essential part of the car that is responsible for its effective running and performance. Your timing belt inside the vehicle is the primary reason why it keeps running and adapts to speed. Yes, gears do play a significant role, but the timing belt is what ensures that the engine’s valves open and close at the proper interval.
Therefore, your timing belt can be one of the most common reasons why your car has become idle and fails to start. A significant reason behind the same can be that the valves inside the timing belt and the pistons are not meeting each other at a said interval, failing to give you efficient results and movement.
Moreover, your timing belt is the major part that you should look after whenever you go for servicing. Having a timing belt that fails to keep up with the systematic opening and closing of the valves can lead to harmful damage to the engine. It is always advisable for you to change your timing belt at a regular interval of every 60,000 miles or five years (whichever is earlier).

● Your alternator might be the cause:

An alternator is that essential part of your car that is responsible for the effective functioning of all the electrical pieces of equipment that function inside your car. Its most significant function is to start the spark plug and essentially provide it with the spark that is responsible for the running of your engine.
Besides the successful starting of your engine, a failed alternator can also be the cause behind the failure of other necessary parts of your car. It is also linked with the plugs that power the headlight and therefore, you need to keep a check on your alternator as well, in case your car fails to start.

● Your battery might be corroded:

It is no hidden fact that cars perform majorly due to the presence of a battery inside it. The battery is responsible for running all the electric-based components of your vehicle and also plays a significant role in igniting your engine.
Corrosion on your battery can be serious trouble for you as it is like rust and will ultimately end up waiting away your car’s battery beside the other significant parts that are developed out of iron. We suggest you always keep a check on the health of your battery and its corrosion, every time you take it to a service centre.

● Are you sure your air filter isn’t clogged?

Similar to the other necessary elements of your car, the air filter might also be the cause that is failing your vehicle to start. An air filter plays a significant role in keeping up with the excellent health of the drivetrain of the car. It filters out all the harmful elements like dust particles to keep up with the smooth functioning of your vehicle.
An air filter is essential for your car to your car 'breathe'. A clogged air filter might also pose serious damage to the blockage of the exhaust pipe, leaving your vehicle to fail from the start.

With the onset of the winter months, the mercury drops, and so does the efficiency of your car if you do not maintain it well. Considering, you have invested a lot of money in buying your car and have chosen the best company to buy private car insurance in India and what not? So why neglect it during the chilly time of the year?

Cars require year-round maintenance to provide a smooth driving experience to the owner. After all, who wouldn't want that, right? Therefore, the following guidelines are prepared to guide you on how to take care of your car during the winter season:

● Heaters - Although a major part of India does not witness extreme cold weather during the winters, occasional chilly winds and low temperatures can tempt people to use the heaters in their car. What would be better than getting a good amount of heat after being outside in the cold for too long? That's why keeping a check on the heating system inside the car is essential.

●Starting the car - There is a general belief that the engine takes longer to warm up in the winter due to the surrounding low temperatures. Up to a certain extent, this is true. That's why people leave their car engine running for a while before driving. But that does not help much. The engine warms up after you drive, so it is best to take it out at regular intervals. As a result, you can make sure that the fluids are moving around efficiently, and the condition of the car does not take a hit in the cold weather.

●Fuel tank - If you live in extremely cold areas like those in the North which tend to receive snowfall, you must always keep your fuel tank full. If petrol or diesel is filled enough, the accumulated water can be prevented from freezing inside the tank, thereby saving your car from potential fuel damage.

●Engine oil - Engine failure is a common problem during the cold months. For the enhanced performance of your car, check the manuals that came along with it and use the mentioned engine oil so that the chances of any mishaps decrease. Also, maintain a certain minimum limit of oil and ensure that oil does not reduce past that limit.

● Windshield wipers - Apart from engine oil, windscreen fluid is something you need to keep full. Due to fog or light snow, the visibility of the road ahead of your car decreases. If your windshield is not clear either, you will face a tough time driving. That is why we recommend maintaining the cleaning fluid as well as the proper working condition of the wipers.

●

Tyre checking - A lot of people might be unaware of this fact, but tires need to be changed with the weather. Especially in the northern parts where temperatures tend to drop to an extreme. Winter tires are built in such a way that they remain firm to the ground and maintain stability even in low temperatures. Even if there is no snow, these tires provide ease and smoothness in situations like applying brakes and taking a turn on the road. Also, ensuring the air pressure of the tires is a wise decision as driving around with less pressure can lead to premature wearing out and chances of accidents or collisions increase.

●

Servicing - If you have little or no knowledge of how to maintain your car during the winter, just contact the authorized service centres of the company or other trusted service providers that can take away your burden and ensure the good condition of your vehicle. This way you can attain a feeling of satisfaction that any problems existing already would be taken care of and further possible damage can be avoided. While a lot can be done, sometimes the breakdown of a car is inevitable. In such cases, availing private car insurance in India will help in keeping the expenses in control.

For today’s generation, long working hours, irregular sleep schedules, take-out meals, and an unhealthy lifestyle are becoming the new normal, impacting their everyday lives. An evident proof is an increased need for medical attention, which makes health insurance an obvious necessity.

With the 5G advancement of the mobile network, we trust the internet to provide us with faster and accurate information about everything, including health. Fortunately, so do the majority of health insurers. They rely upon the internet to offer a convenient, cost-effective, fast, and secure platform for their customers to buy online health insurance.

Why is online health insurance better? People still hesitate with the idea of online money transactions due to the possibility of fraud. But, this doubt holds no good if you are transacting on official websites of reputed insurance companies. Plus, the multitude of benefits that online policy portals bring is impressive. You get a better level of transparency than what any agent can provide you. You can also compare many websites for online health insurance before you finalise one.

The internet takes the whole idea of saving time to the next level. A few minutes spent online comparing different policies and their features is more convenient than visiting agents.

Health insurance companies are offering online buyers with exciting incentives to encourage more online health insurance purchases. As you buy directly with the insurance company, they save on intermediary costs and commissions to the agents. Therefore, online health insurance works out to be significantly lower.

Things to consider while buying an online health insurance. The most popular insurance isn’t necessarily the most appropriate one. The requirements and expectations of every person from their health insurance differ. To find the best plan for you and your family, consider the following factors:

• The number of members in your family that you want to insure

• Their age, diseases they suffer from, or if they frequently require medical attention

• The place you live, and the health factors associated with that place

• Your average medical expense

• The expected amount of cover

Note – The premium you pay is based on your current financial situation and family income.

How to buy health insurance online?

1. Visit the website of the desired insurance company.

2. Enter your requirements and the personal information of you and your family.

3. You will receive multiple quotes. Select the most suitable for you.

4. Enter your account details and make the payments of the required amount.

5. You will receive confirmation and the details of your policy via email.

6. Congratulations, you are now insured.

The best insurance agencies provide complete transparency so that customers make informed purchases. In addition, insurers strive to facilitate the best plans, give a shedload of options and a hassle-free experience by integrating the latest technology.

Often people make the mistake of buying the same policies as recommended by their friends and families. This may create financial stress on your family. Always have the right due diligence because your lack of knowledge might prevent you from enjoying all the features of the said policy.

With several promising technologies to enhance consumers' use and experience, take advantage of picking out perfect online health insurance for you and your family.

Know more about the Health Insurances available, click here…