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.

Be it the wealthiest man in the world or a celebrity singer of all time, we have heard influential and successful people talk about the importance of a good night’s sleep. Several studies have proved it humans need to rest for the mind and body to work at full potential the next day. The ignorance of sleep is not a healthy sign, yet, we are so caught up in the rat race that we end up compromising sleep.

A sound sleep is important to your personal and professional well-being. This article will highlight how and why a consistent sleep routine is necessary and what we can do to achieve the same.

1. Maintaining the body clock or the circadian rhythm:

A regular sleep routine is one way of ensuring the proper functionality of your body. The body’s heart rate and blood pressure follow the circadian rhythm. Circadian rhythms are physical, mental, and behavioural changes the body follows in a twenty-four cycle. When you sleep on time, your body automatically recognises the need to rest.
When you do this over a period of time, you start noticing changes such as more active brain activity in the morning, sleeping easily at night, and better digestion. Research has shown that people who stick to a sleep schedule perform better tasks and have better cognitive skills.

2. Better overall health:

People with erratic sleep schedules often find it challenging to go to rest and eventually oversleep. This is because the body fails to recognise the difference between exhaustion and sleep. Staying up late can leave the body and the brain exhausted. To combat this, the body overcompensates with sleep.
Midnight snacking is another unhealthy habit that people develop over time. Ideally, one should go to bed after two hours of dinner. Allow your body to have ample time to digest the food. We have often heard people talk about burning sensations in the morning. This happens when you lie down immediately after dinner, allowing the digestive juices to flow back up the oesophagus, causing an acid reflex.

Now, let us take note of a few ways to develop a consistent sleep routine for healthy living:

1. Set aside 8 hours from your schedule for an undisturbed night’s sleep. Going off to sleep and rising up at the same time is the first step to maintaining a healthy sleep cycle. Avoid snoozing the alarm. The extra five minutes after hitting the snooze will make you tired and lazy. Instead, wake up at the first ring of the alarm to feel fresh and rejuvenated.

2. Stick to light and non-greasy food options to avoid discomfort. Having dinner at least two hours before you sleep is ideal. Stick to light and non-greasy food options to avoid discomfort. Hot herbal tea is an excellent way to calm your body before bed.

3. Avoid using laptops, mobiles, or other electronic gadgets in the bedroom. The blue light from screens makes it difficult for people to fall asleep. A well-made bed, dark curtains, and night lights can help ease your sleep faster.

These are a few techniques that you can try out to maintain a disciplined sleep cycle. The important thing to remember here is that sometimes lack of sleep can result from inappropriate lifestyle choices or other latent health problems. Under such circumstances, it is best to visit a doctor.

Your doctor might suggest some medications or tests to help you with your concerns. A thorough full body check-up might help with the diagnosis of the problem. Invest in a health insurance policy with the best health insurance company in India to avoid losing your sleep over the expenses of check-ups and medicines.

Click HERE to know more about health 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.

Living long is not a myth. There are plenty of ways to improve your life expectancy rate and improve the overall quality of your life. Since childhood, we have been hearing the adults guide us on our habits. That’s right; there is no rocket science behind adding those extra five years, but everything that your mother told you. Besides it, having health insurance is also a part of protection you need to consider, as it keeps you stress-free and allows you to focus on your well-being.

In this post, we will spotlight all the right moves giving you extra five years to enjoy life! Let’s dive in!

1. Healthy food for a wealthy mood:
Maintaining and eating a healthy diet has never been as challenging as it is now. Due to hectic work schedules and trying to balance our social and personal lives, we often neglect our food. Most people prefer grabbing a quick fast food on the go. However, they often fail to realize the consequences of regularly consuming fast food in the long run.
A healthy diet must include lots of green vegetables, nuts, dry fruits, natural sources of proteins including beans and fish, and more. Adding turmeric to your diet also plays a vital role as it has curcumin that facilitates anti-ageing strategies. You can also consult a nutritionist if you want to focus on your food intake highly.

2. Getting drunk makes your junk:
Everyone likes to take a few drinks during parties, festivals, holidays, and other events. However, when you’re taking that sip of your favourite wine, be extra careful over how much you are consuming. Alcohol can play the role of both – being healthy and damaging simultaneously, depending on your intake. Regular higher intake of alcohol can cause life-threatening diseases and damage your liver and other organs.

3. Look fit, feel fit – exercise regularly:
This is something that we’ve been hearing as a child. Fitness and your life expectancy go hand in hand. Keeping your body physically active alone includes plenty of health benefits. According to research, 15 minutes of physical exercise a day can add up to three years in your life and promote a healthy lifestyle.

4. Smoking isn't cool:
No, you do not need “just one drag”. Whether you smoke one a day or a packet a day, you’re at an equal risk of early death and health problems, especially lung damages. In addition, smokers may reduce up to 10 years of their life compared to those who have never touched a cigarette. If you are already a smoker, know that you can always find the right solution and take the initiative to quit. You may seek help to quit smoking and find a healthy and non-damaging alternative.

5. Better weight, better life:
Many diseases can be signalled goodbye when you maintain a healthy weight. A healthy weight varies from one person to another depending on various factors, including gender, age, height, and more. Being underweight can welcome unnecessary health issues. Similarly, being overweight also puts you at a higher risk of health conditions. It is in your best interest to contact your physician and take their guidance on your ideal weight.

Although these five tips are enough to push you towards a healthy lifestyle, health issues can still arise. Irrespective of your age, you can encounter multiple problems, from a simple pain in your leg to severe disease.

Protecting yourself and your loved ones with health insurance can be another primary step that you should consider to live a healthy and long life.

Click HERE to know more about the health insurance plans that fit your needs.

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.

What can be more exciting than travelling internationally for the first time? No matter how much you have travelled within your country, crossing the borders to explore a new nation, its culture, lifestyle, and cuisine is always an exciting experience to cherish.

The number of outbound travellers flying out to foreign destinations has shown significant growth after the ease of global travel restrictions post Covid-19. The travel ecosystem is again flourishing with inbound and outbound tourism, leading to re-establish the harmony in travel relations among various countries.

However, as a first-time traveller, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind to make your experience more hassle-free and less daunting. This article will look at a few tips to help you have a successful first international trip.

1. Sort your passport:

The most important document that you need to have is a passport. Ideally, get your passport work done before you even begin planning your trip. However, the Indian government has facilitated “Tatkal” passports if you require a passport urgently. Under this scheme, you can get a passport between two to four days. Remember to keep a digital and a physical copy of your passport with you.
You must present your passport at security checks, immigration, and even at various hotels for identification purposes.

2. Visa process:

Make sure to check the visa requirements of the visiting country before booking tickets. Several countries offer visa-free access or visas on arrival to Indian passport holders. Visa on arrival is a procedure where a visa is provided to people upon arrival in the destination country rather than applying for it before flying.
Countries such as Maldives, Hong Kong, and Mauritius do not require visas for Indian passports. While, countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, etc., have a visa on arrival facility for Indian passport holders.

3. Money and Currency:

Many banks offer you international transactions and withdrawal facilities. Check your bank and understand their requirements, such as international fees, currency exchange rates, and ATM withdrawal fees. Carry some physical money during your trips. Withdraw a significant amount of cash from the airport to skip ATM fees.

4. Accommodation:

We have always heard people talk about the exorbitant rates of hotels and local transportation. Booking your accommodation at the last minute can be expensive. Instead, book at least a couple of months before your trip to get the best deals on good properties. Look for hotels that provide complementary services such as breakfast and Wi-Fi for maximum benefits.
If you are travelling with a group, your ideal choice would be to book a dormitory. You can stock the fridge here with food and groceries from nearby supermarkets, thus significantly cutting your accommodation and food expenses.

5. Transport:

Avoid booking taxis and rentals beforehand. After reaching your destination, download local transport and rental apps to avoid swindling. Travelling on local buses and trains is an excellent way to interact with the locals and other travellers.

6. Safety first:

It is highly important to keep yourself safe, be in your hotel or while travelling. Do not leave your bag and wallets lying around in cafes or public spaces. A crossbody bag is a must for passports and wallets. Keep the emergency contact details in your bag, especially when you're travelling with kids and aged people.
To have an extra layer of safety, look for a general insurance company that provides you with a comprehensive travel cover. This will safeguard you against expenses you might face because of theft, delayed flights, overbooked hotels, etc.

These are a few ways to make your first international trip successful and enjoyable. Do thorough research on the places you want to go, the cost, and your flight timing to avoid long queues. And as mentioned, do not forget to look for a general insurance company that suits your needs for that extra guarantee of a safe trip. First-timers’ trips are always special, and you, too, might want your first international trip to be your best memory.

Click HERE to know more about general insurance and its benefits.

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.

Transport is the lifeline of civilization, and the role of low-cost transportation in a developing country like India is crucial. For a larger section of society in urban, semi-urban and rural areas, cars are non-affordable. Therefore, two-wheelers are an all-time favourite among the middle class who can afford something more sophisticated than a bicycle.

While two-wheelers are necessary for many, poor road conditions, unorganized and rash driving, and traffic rules violations make bikers unsafe. Therefore, it is always important to stay safe on the road, ride with proper safety gear and always wear a helmet. To get additional protection for your two-wheeler, you can purchase 2 wheeler insurance online. Insurance can be of great help to overcome the losses due to mistakes that happen on the roads.

Let's have a look at a few common mistakes to avoid while riding a two-wheeler.

1. Listening to music:
Nowadays, many helmets come equipped with a Bluetooth system, with which you can attend calls. They can also communicate with other riders during a group ride, but many people misuse this feature by listening to music through Bluetooth. Music can be distracting to severe extents. It reduces your alertness, and you compromise with your listening ability too. It is always important to have situational attentiveness when in traffic. You can listen to music on a long trip, but that too on a low volume. Be sure that you are still able to hear the faint noises of other approaching vehicles.

2. Travelling at night:
People try to cover long distances at night to avoid the harsh sun during the day, but it can be hazardous. Riding at night is way more challenging than riding in broad daylight. Naturally, the human biological clock winds down at night, thus, making you feel sleepy. So, if you are not a professional rider, it is highly unsafe for you to ride long distances at night. Try to start early in the morning and ride till midday to cover long distances instead of riding at night.

3. Carrying heavy loads:
People have a habit of using their scooters to transport goods for a short distance which can be dangerous. Not only does it deteriorate the performance of the vehicle in the long run, but also affects the braking mechanism. Riding with more than the gross axle weight compromises the vehicle's ability to stop under panic braking situations. So be sure to check out your vehicle's gross axle weight (GAW) on the manufacturing company's website.

4. Overtaking at a blind curve:
At the blind curves on the road, you can only see a few meters in front of you. In such situations, it is risky to overtake the vehicle ahead of you because you may be unaware of any vehicle approaching from the blind side of the curve.

We all have come across at least one person who has met with an accident while riding a bike. Two-wheelers are convenient and cost-effective, but they are also more prone to accidents. So, be doubly sure to have a valid insurance cover, and if you don't have one, we suggest buying a 2 wheeler insurance online. It will financially back you in case of an accident. Be cautious while riding to have safer journeys!

Planning to buy 2 wheeler insurance online? Click HERE for details.

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.