GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

The strict implication of rules and regulations in a densely populated nation like India is required to maintain law, order, and discipline. Several rules have been laid down over time and are also ever-changing, with constant reforms.

But, due to the lack of awareness of the existing traffic rules, most people suffer losses in terms of fines on the road. When you end up paying fines on the road, you're causing a financial and ethical loss to yourself. It can be easily avoided if you have a better knowledge of the country's traffic rules.

If you lag in keeping up with traffic rules and regulations, then you'll benefit from this article. Regardless, we suggest you stay up-to-date with your insurance so that your vehicle does not undergo any damage. Book your calendar in advance for your car insurance renewal so that you don't have to face the discontinuity of your policy.

Further, we will highlight some of the country's lesser-known traffic rules. They will help you save up on fines and stay informed while driving on Indian roads.

List of some lesser-known traffic violations in the country:
1. You violate traffic rules if you have tinted glasses on your car, truck, or van. You are entitled to a fine of INR 100 or more, and your licence can also be suspended. Various State Governments first ordered the removal of tinted glasses. The rule is extremely strict, and it does not spare anyone.
2. All the big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore have a rule of mandatory silencers in all vehicles. If your vehicle does not have a silencer, you are likely to pay a fine of about INR 10,000. This has been done to keep the noise pollution levels in check.
3. If you use high-beam headlights at night, you are likely to pay a fine of INR 500. It is done keeping in account the increasing number of road accidents due to the use of high-beam headlights at night. It is considered extremely dangerous. On the contrary, if you are found driving without headlights at night, you also have to pay the penalty for it. Ironical yet true!
4. Smoking inside the car is prohibited in India. If you're found guilty of this, you'll have to pay a fine of up to INR 500 for the same. The act of smoking is harmful to the driver as well as the co-passengers.
5. In most metro cities like Kolkata and Chennai, it is necessary to have a first aid kit in your vehicle at all times. Failure to produce one upon inspection can result in a fine. It was done to ensure the safety of the driver and the vehicle's passengers. It is also mandatory to follow this in the case of new vehicles.
6. The use of pressure horns is liable to be fined in India. If you have installed a pressure horn in your vehicle, you might have to pay a fine of about INR 1,000 or more if stopped by the police.

All drivers in India must remember these lesser-known traffic rules when they hit the road. It will save a lot of time, effort, and money. Further, it will ensure your safety and prevent you from getting in trouble. It is crucial to abide by the traffic rules and encourage others to do so. Keep all your documents up-to-date and handy, especially the PUC and car insurance. You should never miss out on your car insurance renewal. Take charge of your role as a responsible driver.

Click HERE to get car insurance renewal done instantly.

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

Nothing beats the peaceful enjoyment of a long solo drive. With the weather being nice and pleasing, it is the perfect time to plan a solo car trip to detox from the busy lifestyle and the city hustle.

But with the fun aspects of solo trips, it is also true that solo travelling is somewhat unsafe since you are going long distances all by yourself. It is crucial to acknowledge the perks of car insurance India can be beneficial during emergencies.

So, to make your travelling experience more enjoyable, here we have eleven safety tips for long-distance driving.

1. Remember to take frequent breaks:
A long drive can be entertaining but also exhausting. So, remember to take breaks from driving, get out of the car, stretch out your muscles, have quick snacks, and hydrate yourself.

2. Be careful with your luggage and cash:
When you're on a solo trip, you are basically on your own with the security of your belongings and valuables. Make sure you lock your car when you move out for a refreshing walk.

3. Interact with the local people:
Local people are the best way to know more about the place you are travelling to. Be kind and interact with the locals so they can help you have a safe journey while making your trip more memorable.

4. Have good knowledge of the policy of car insurance India:
Danger never comes with warnings. So always ensure that you cover your car under a legal insurance policy.

5. Be safe with your routes, but don't be afraid to explore:
When you're on a solo trip by car, you always have to be extra careful with the route you're taking for your adventure. While it is necessary to remain safe, don't be afraid to explore the local attractions of the places you travel and enjoy their authenticity.

6. Prepare yourself for anything unfortunate:
While travelling solo, you should always be prepared for the worst. Always carry pepper spray and/or a safety knife with you. Cases of solo travellers being attacked are common, especially in isolated places. Try staying in places where the network is working, so you can always contact the emergency services if you need to.

7. Educate yourself with the basic knowledge of the regional language:
If your destination has a predominant language, it is best to learn some basic phrases in their language so the local people can help you out in case you need them. Simple phrases like greetings, help requests, etc., should be in your vocabulary for a safe travelling experience.

8. Don't blindly trust strangers:
The age-old advice of not trusting strangers is a legitimate one. You can never predict people's true intentions, so while it is good to be nice in general, don't trust everyone you meet on your trip.

9. Don't eat or drink from unverified sources:
Being on a solo trip to foreign destinations will require you to be properly informed and careful with everything the place offers. So, for the sake of your safety, do not eat or drink from places that seem suspicious or unhygienic.

10. Follow a modest dress code:
While it may not be an issue in some places, it is always important to dress modestly if you plan to go on a solo trip somewhere unknown.

11. Have your entertainment sources with you:
While solo car travelling adventures are always fun, things can quickly get boring. So have a playlist of your favourite music to groove and enjoy your trip even more. Books and magazines are also a great way to entertain yourself during breaks.

We hope your solo travelling adventure is refreshing, entertaining, and safe. Prepare a quick checklist and note down all the crucial tasks to make your trip convenient. Start with taking your car for servicing. Pack light, do not stuff your bag with unnecessary things, and most importantly, carry a first-aid kit. Have all the required documents like driving licence, PUC, car insurance India, etc., handy with you. Keep these tips in mind for a better experience, and lastly, have a safe journey!

Click HERE to buy car 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.

India is a country with diverse topography, culture, and people. Since the urbanisation boom, most of our population has shifted from villages to cities in search of opportunities and better lives.

Recent trends indicate a welcome change as the increasing number of people are opting for village tours to experience rural life in stark contrast to the everyday bustle of the cities. These village tours help support the rural economy and boost tourism.

The unparalleled experiences in remote villages are an experience like no other. These tours provide a glance at everyday village life, including the local cultures, food, and lifestyle. These experiences can significantly change the way we perceive life.

What to expect from village tours?
Village tours are a great way to get an idea of what village life looks like for a short period. It is an immersive experience where you can interact with villagers and be amongst the common folk. You can feel the sense of community engagement while enjoying the pristine rural background.
Some tours also provide a luxurious experience through well-built camps equipped with all the requisite amenities. However, as you are stepping into a lifestyle unknown to you, it is best to be prudent and insure yourself and your fellow travellers. If you do not yet have a travel insurance policy, you can consider purchasing online general insurance that covers accidental mishaps.

Following are some of the best villages tours in India;

1. Kutch:
The white desert in Gujarat is home to several villages where they continue to preserve and exhibit their traditions, culture, and handicrafts. While the desert has plenty to explore, the villages provide an opportunity to live in clusters of mud huts and engage in the daily activities of the Kutchi people.

2. Punjab:
Punjab is an ideal place to experience village life. With a majority of people engaged in agriculture and allied activities, the hospitable villagers of Punjab are great hosts for facilitating this experience. One can experience tractor rides, farming activities based on the season, and learn more about their culture. All of this can be done in vast fields with clear skies in the backdrop- how much better can it get?

3. Wayanad:
The district at an altitude is home to some of the oldest tribal villages. The North Kerala cuisine, coffee plantations, bamboo handicrafts, and workshops are highlights of visiting the villages of Wayanad. Depending on the season, you can try your hand at working in the vast plantain orchards and coconut plantations.

4. Spiti Valley:
Spiti Valley is a cold desert in Himachal Pradesh with small villages spread over the region. Although the villages are sparsely populated and very remote, they provide a unique experience. The unfamiliar surroundings in the mountains may seem cold, but the warmth of the people makes up for it.
The locals are excellent guides to take you sightseeing and can help make the most of your trip while bonding with your hosts.

5. Sunderbans:
Known for being the land native to the Royal Bengal Tiger and swampy marshlands, several villages are located in the Sunderbans. Walks in the villages, exploring the mangroves, and basking in the humid climate are what your days would look like on a village tour to Sunderbans.

Irrespective of the village you choose to explore, you will be greeted by enthusiastic and hospitable hosts who will do their utmost to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable. Your hosts will ensure to engage you in a trip that will leave you feeling like you're amongst them without missing out on any luxuries or facing any inconveniences.

Our only tip to you before you book your trip would be to look into the terrain and climate and pack accordingly. Be aware of the risks associated with the area you're visiting and ensure that your insurance covers the same. If not, you can always buy online general insurance that can keep you protected at all times.

Click HERE to buy online general insurance plan.

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 two-wheeler provides many conveniences and advantages, particularly in terms of time savings. Two-wheelers are becoming increasingly popular as a form of transportation, mainly in urban areas where traffic congestion is the main issue. However, two wheelers are also more inclined to accidents.

If you encounter an accident while riding, make sure to check yourself and your fellow passengers before moving on to the next step. Look for any indications of pain in your body. Check your accessories to see what body parts have touched the ground. You may have been hit in one or more of these body parts if your jacket, pants, shoes, gloves, or helmet have any sign of damage. Before determining the motorcycle's condition, check your physical health.

Sometimes it's impossible to stand the bike back up, and you need assistance. It might have fallen in an odd place, or maybe it's too heavy. Yet again, it's a huge, hefty piece of equipment, so don't feel guilty asking for help.

Make sure it is safe to ride by giving it a quick inspection. Here is the checklist you can follow to know about the damage done.

● Check the fluid levels even if you cannot see anything under the spot where the bike fell over. It might be a case of the coolant splashing out of the reservoir, or the braking fluid reservoir cap coming off. Do not ride the bike if the brake fluid reservoir has air in it, the fluid level is low, or it is leaking. The consequences of having air in your brake lines go far beyond simply dropping your bike.

● Inspect your handlebar and ensure the clutch and brake cables didn't break or bend in a way that will make the bike unsafe. Confirm the foot pedal controls in the same way, assuring the shifter isn't jammed and the rear brake pedal isn't locked or jammed.

● Ensure that the motorcycle starts! Some motorcycles include tip-over sensors, which won't immediately turn back. This can usually be resolved by turning the key on and off.

● If you have a bike with carburettors, the fuel may have leaked out, and you will need to give it a few revolutions to get the gas back into the system.

● The main cause of a motorcycle that won't start after tipping over could be a problem with the gasoline supply, such as too much petrol spilling into the engine cylinders. A broken internal switch or a disconnect in the electronics due to the crash could be present in the motorcycle.

● Sometimes too much fuel from the carburettor might be pumped into the engine cylinders when a motorcycle is knocked over.

● The spark plug's contacts may become wet from the gasoline if too much fuel is put into the cylinders, preventing it from sparking.

A motorcycle has numerous connections that must all work together to turn over. The connection to the battery is one of the most crucial. Over the period, the connection created on a battery becomes brittle because of the rust on it. So, inspect the battery for any faults or loose connections, and once this is fixed, you can start your bike.

Even though a two-wheeler has many advantages, it has a unique set of risks. For starters, the possibility of a surprise collision increases the risk of both the rider and the pillion rider suffering injuries and potential two-wheeler damage. This may result in increased financial hardship.

This then makes sense to buy bike insurance online to avoid adding extra expenses to your budget if something unfortunate happens to your motorcycle. Also, ensure that you have the safety gear and important documents handy before planning your trip. Making the right purchase will handcraft you a safer and more immersive riding experience!

Click HERE to buy bike insurance online.

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

Cat eyes reflectors are also known as road studs or raised pavement markers. They are safety devices installed on the roads and reflect or emit light flashes at night. You can commonly see them on roads or highways while driving. Drivers use them as lane markers to guide vehicles on dark roads.

Cat eyes reflectors reflect light to a light source, such as a car’s headlights. Hence, when driving on a dark patch of road, these reflectors reflect back light to your vehicle. This helps you to identify the sides and centre of the road and minimise the chances of a mishap.

Types of cat eyes reflectors:

There are primarily four types of cat eyes reflectors in use.

1. Plastic:
Reflectors made of plastic are the least durable and not as strong as the other types of reflectors. They are good to use on the sides of bridges and highways.

2. Aluminium:
These reflectors are made of aluminium and hence, are strong enough to withstand the load of heavy vehicles. These have reflective objects installed inside them. They are also ideal to use in the middle of the roads because of their strength and durability.

3. Glass:
You will also spot reflectors made of hardened safety glass. They come with a coating on their bottoms that reflect the light back to the source.

4. LED:
LED cat eyes reflectors are the most advanced as they have solar panels on their tops. This acts as their energy source and helps them to emit blinking light at night. They provide the brightest light and have much better visibility than the above three types of reflectors.

Advantages of cat eyes reflectors:

● Enhanced visibility:
The primary advantage of cat eyes reflectors is to make night driving safe and secure and minimise the chances of accidents. They help to make corners of traffic lanes visible at night and ensure that the drivers do not skid away from the roads, especially at dangerous curves.

● Prevent unsafe lane changing:
Cat eyes reflectors mark the lanes on the roads. This ensures that vehicles do not frequently change lanes or swerve from one lane to another, causing accidents.

● Speed control:
Cat eyes reflectors also act as a road rumbling strip. The traffic automatically slows down while passing over them since they act as barriers to speed. Thus, they help to control rash driving.

● Durable and easy to install:
These reflectors are very durable, economical, and easy to install than other lane markers. They do not come out by themselves when attached to the roads. Also, there is very little chance of their theft. Hence, they have a very long life.

● Multi-coloured:
Cat eyes reflectors are multi-coloured. While this increases their aesthetic beauty, each colour has a special meaning too. White reflectors denote lane divisions and centre marking on the roads, and red reflectors denote lines that we cannot cross. Green reflectors denote the lines we can cross, such as entrances to service lanes.

Cat eyes reflectors are excellent warning devices on roads inside cities and highways. They have a special role on highways since there are few streetlights, and vehicles run at high speeds. The governments have increased their usage in recent years. It is a step in the right direction as they enhance the safety and security of all types of vehicles plying on the roads.

Similar to cat eyes reflectors, online motor insurance takes care of our vehicles in the best way possible. Buy motor insurance online and receive the safety and security of insurance combined with the convenience of buying it right from your home or workplace without visiting the insurance office personally. Hence, it is the best form of comprehensive coverage and the most recommended one.

Click HERE to buy motor insurance online.

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

The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a demand for health insurance policies. People are now aware of the importance of health insurance cover in case of sudden hospitalisations and expensive treatments. Moreover, many people also opt for it to avail of tax benefits.

Let us take you through a few lesser heard facts about health insurance plans in India. This will facilitate you to make a better and informed choice if you are also planning to buy a health insurance policy for yourself and your family.

1. NRI health insurance policy:
It is now possible for a non-resident Indian (NRI) to avail of health insurance cover in India. An NRI person will have to submit residence proof along with other necessary documents. Companies use Indian parameters to ascertain the cost of the treatment and premium amount. The treatment will have to be done in India to enjoy the policy benefits.

2. Pre-existing diseases:
Yes, you can get health insurance coverage even with pre-existing diseases. The insurance company will start coverage after 36 or 48 months of buying the policy, as per the terms and conditions. You will have to disclose the ailment at the time of buying the policy; otherwise, the insurance company can reject your claim at a later date.

3. Limits:
There are sub-limits set under your policy cover for certain types of expenditure. Generally, insurance companies put a cap on room rents based on the total sum insured. For example, suppose your total policy cover is 10 lakh rupees, and the room rent has a cap of 1% of the total cover. You are eligible to spend only Rs.10000/- a day on the room rent. You will have to pay it from your pocket if it exceeds that amount.

4. Recharge of the insured amount:
Exhausted your health insurance coverage amount? No need to worry. Some insurance companies allow us to recharge or upgrade our policy cover amount! For example, suppose we have insurance coverage of 5 lakhs INR, and it gets exhausted. We can opt for the refill and reinstate the cover if we need it over the remaining tenure.

5. Daycare coverage / Maternity coverage:
Many health insurance companies have started providing cover, even for daycare procedures. The patient need not be hospitalised for over 24 hours to benefit from the cover. This has made it convenient for people undergoing procedures such as chemotherapy, dialysis, radiotherapy, etc. Similarly, some policies now provide us coverage for maternity-related expenditures as well.

6. No age restriction:
Some insurance companies have started providing health insurance coverage without restricting the insured's age. People over 65 years of age can also get health insurance coverage now. Moreover, they can also buy a family floater plan and get coverage for their spouse and other family members as well.
The policy will remain functional and valid until the insured continues to pay the premium for the policy timely. They cannot deny the coverage with the growing age of the insured.

7. Reimbursement policy:
When purchasing, we generally check the network hospitals first in our health insurance policy in India. It is believed that the policy benefits will apply only in those hospitals. This is not the case.
Coverage is valid and works even when admitted to a non-network hospital. It does not matter if it is not on the list of eligible hospitals for cashless treatment under a policy. Patients will have to settle the bill themselves at the time of discharge. The insured will get reimbursed from the insurance company at a later date after the submission of all the required documents.

One should carefully go through the terms and conditions of a policy before opting for it. You should not just get lured by a low premium amount. It may exclude coverage for certain treatments and facilities, and you may suffer later at the time of need. The benefits and coverage provided under health insurance plans in India vary from one company to another. Hence, be prudent and choose your health insurance policy wisely.

Click HERE to know more about the best health insurance plans 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.

When we talk about travel, everyone likes to get some discounts and save money on expenses. You can save on many things, like a flight, a place to stay, food, insurance, car rental, etc. Always remember that an insurance plan is essential as it helps cover many things, like your flight getting cancelled or your baggage being stolen. Buying general insurance India is a prudent practice when planning your trip

Here are some valuable suggestions which help you reduce travel expenses, irrespective of the destination. Travel smart with our nifty tips!

1. Compare flight tickets online:
Nowadays, comparing fares of different airlines has become convenient online. You can browse a third-party site on your browser, type in your location, destination, and return trip, and instantly get the list of available airlines. Book your ticket 4 to 5 months before your departure, as booking at the last minute can be costly.

2. Try to travel by train:
Train travel is slower than air, but it can save you a lot of money. Book your train tickets online to access different options and avoid paying any commission to the agents.

3. All you need to do about your luggage:
You should know that checked-in baggage fees can add up, especially when you travel by air. Try packing a single carry-on luggage, and you can avoid wasting time checking in and picking up luggage during transit or when you land at your destination. Also, you may buy online general insurance India before your journey to cover the loss or theft of bags and avoid the fear of losing your baggage.

4. Get the best hotel deals:
Most people go for big hotel brands, which ensure a luxurious stay, but there are several charges for amenities you might never consider using during your trip. Overbooking also makes these hotels expensive and crowded.
Opting for affordable hotels that provide excellent amenities and hospitality is a smart way to save money. When planning your trip, you can research and compare the budget and facilities of different hotels through different online hotel booking portals.

5. Book activities ahead of time:
Most people mistakenly buy tickets for museum entry, park admission, and other activities on the spot or when the prices rise due to too much demand. Book tickets for such activities before you visit them and avail yourself of discounts and rewards. You can also get a group discount if you are travelling in a group.

6. Use rewards programs:
Joining rewards programs offered by airlines and hotel chains can help you snatch some fantastic deals. If you plan to visit multiple cities during your trip, book your first hotel and use your accumulated points to book the next one at another destination.

*A smart tip to save more on your transportation
When visiting a new destination, search for the available public transport in that city and book them in advance if you plan to explore the location during the busy season. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals about transportation & the best places to be & eat. This helps save money and explore the city in & out from the view of a local!

Follow these tips to plan a perfect trip without putting much strain on your pocket. Get good general insurance India that covers several things. Look for special coverage in your insurance if needed. If you smartly know how to use online resources, then you’ll successfully execute budget-friendly trips almost every time.

Click HERE to buy general 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.

Do you think you find yourself mislead while purchasing car insurance? Most people lack knowledge of car insurance coverage, legal terms, and exclusions. While we understand the core concepts of it can be vague, it is essential to understand the advantages and limitations of the car insurance policy. So, the best way to get to the crux of this is to read this blog until the end.

First-time car insurance buyers have numerous questions bombarding their minds and leaving them clueless about making the right choice. In this space, we will be looking at the most frequently asked questions so that you can choose the best-suited policy.

1. Is it mandatory to take a car insurance policy in India?
Yes, it is indeed mandatory. As the days pass, we witness an alarming increase in road accidents. According to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, it is stated that while driving on Indian roads, it is essential to have a car insurance policy to drive legally. At the very least, you must possess a third-party car insurance policy.

2. Is it necessary to buy car insurance for old cars?
Whether old or new, you must purchase insurance for all types of cars. But the only thing that stands out when buying old car insurance is the premium amount. It is comparatively lower since the market value goes down as time passes.

3. What are various types of car insurance available in India?
At present, there are only two types of car insurance policies available. Third-party car insurance policy is most commonly in demand. It includes both third-party financial and legal liabilities that the policyholder is covered.
The second most popular, comprehensive car insurance, has more excellent coverage of damages. It is said to be the most efficient in terms of protection. The liabilities arising from vehicle damages of the driver/owner and third-party liabilities are covered.

4. What does no claim bonus mean in a car insurance policy?
Throughout the policy tenure, if a policyholder does not claim, then the respective insurance company issues an NCB (no claim bonus).

5. What are the additional covers?
To enhance protection, the insurance companies provide additional covers. These include engine protection, roadside assistance, and zero depreciation. This is entirely optional and, when chosen, needs an extra premium to be paid. Add-ons can be effective as an immunity booster for your insurance plans.

6. Do the online car insurance policy documents have the same validity?
Yes, both printed and online insurance policies have the same validity. You receive the documents through email if the policy is purchased online. You can save it or choose to download the same. Online car insurance has the massive benefit of having the freedom to purchase independently. You can directly visit insurance providers' websites and surf multiple options that suit your needs.
Technology is shaping the future of the insurance industry and is providing customers with the convenience and liberty of making purchases without the involvement of intermediaries. This significantly reduces the cost and makes the process hassle-free.

Investing in securing your assets is the intelligent choice to manage your finances and stay stress-free during emergencies. We are sure you have a basic idea of concepts in car insurance. And now, you can ask the right questions while you buy one upon your next renewal or new car insurance.

Click HERE to know more about the process of buying car 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.