GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

The demand for passenger cars has continued to grow each year due to economic growth, the production of affordable vehicles, and driving convenience for the public.

However, with the rise in vehicle ownership, an inevitable increase in traffic and stricter rule enforcement have followed. It is essential to follow the rules to protect the passengers and the vehicle. For instance, purchasing a car insurance cover is one of the first things that you must do after buying a car to protect the vehicle from damages and reduce the financial burden on the owner. The car insurance price in India is reasonably set depending on usage, model, and engine cc and covers any contingent damages.

It is also essential to follow the rules laid down by the RTO. Often, car owners get their windows tinted, a practice restricted by the authorities. This blog discusses the issue and the consequences of not following the regulation.

What are window tints, and why are they needed?

If you are unaware of the term, it may be because your car does not come with pre-existing tinted windows. Placing a thin laminated film on the inside or outside of windows is common in automobiles and glass buildings, which results in tinted windows.

The thin barrier prevents harsh sun rays from entering the room or the vehicle, thereby minimising the heating. Since sunlight is known to penetrate glass easily, it not only heats the interior but may also cause damage to the seats or furnishings. Apart from sun protection, it provides the added benefit of privacy by minimising visibility from outside.

To sum up, tinted windows are a beneficial addition to cars since they protect the car's interiors from heating up, reduce the risk of damage due to direct exposure to sunlight and also provide passengers privacy.

Why does the RTO restrict the use of tinted films?

The RTO only allows a percentage of tinting that is permitted on laminated films for use on car windows. By following the limits, car owners can safely and legally protect their cars from the heat.

The significant risk of using tinted films is the reduced visibility to drivers. Driving requires the complete focus of the driver and the proper functioning of all his senses to ensure safety on the roads. Depending on the tint percentage, these films can severely hinder the driver's visibility and lead to accidents.

Are window tints illegal?

According to the judgement passed in 2012, the RTO has approved sun control films on windows that provide a minimum of 70% visual light transmission on the front and rear glasses. The side glasses must have minimum visibility of 50%. Some automobile manufacturers also provide the option of installing RTO-approved car glass films.

Penalty on tinted car windows:

If you install tinted films that are not following the RTO's guidelines, you may be fined INR 100 for your first violation. If found for the second time, the fine increases to INR 300. The subsequent breach is fined INR 300, along with the cancellation of the driver's licence. While tinted windows are not illegal, it is necessary to abide by the rules established by the authority to prevent one from getting into legal trouble.

Car insurance is a crucial investment tool that offers comprehensive coverage to the owner if the car gets damaged in an accident. Purchase one for your car by browsing through different plans online and looking for the best car insurance price in India.

But, not following the RTO-issued guidelines on tinted windows or road safety may cause you to encounter the rejection of your car insurance claim. Stay alert and avoid yourself from landing into any trouble.

Click HERE to check out for the best car insurance price 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.

There is no denying the importance of having the most comprehensive and cost-effective motor insurance policy that fits your needs and finances. Though in all of this, let's not forget that the insurance policy's premium can be affected by several things, natural disasters being among the most significant.

Since many readers seem to lack even the most fundamental understanding of how large floods might affect the cost of your car insurance, that's what we'll be discussing today.

When your vehicle is damaged in a major flood:

The first thing you should do after a flood is contacting your motor insurance company. They should make the necessary arrangements to restore your vehicle. Floods affect many people and their vehicles all at once, so you'll want to act quickly. It's important to file your claim immediately; the longer you wait, the more damage you'll likely incur. However, remember that major floods can make insurance companies slow down as the other drivers may be filing similar claims at the same time. This makes the claims process difficult for insurance companies.

If your insurance company provides a claim based on a flood, you may see your premium increase or lose on the NCB (No Claim Bonus) benefits. Most insurance companies won't increase the premium immediately, and also it may take longer for the claim to be cleared.

Methods used to calculate flood-risk zones:

Flood-risk zones are areas prone to frequent floods. These zones are often identified in the form of maps. There are many ways to determine a flood zone, and each type has its own conditions.

Flood insurance premiums are based on the probability that a vehicle will be damaged due to flood. The probability is usually between 0.2% and 1.0%. The risk to a vehicle's value depends on the location within the flood zone and the severity of the flood.

Effects of large flood events on premiums:

In the last decade, weather-related catastrophes have increased in frequency and severity, posing considerable challenges for the insurance industry. And the effects of climate change are expected to accelerate this upward trend, further affecting insurers' bottom lines.

Large flood events can cause motor insurance companies to reduce their payouts by reducing the number of claims they pay. Insurers also limit their payouts by restricting coverage for high-risk events. This, in turn, increases pressure on governments to invest in flood prevention and to provide compensation to those affected.

Floods are events that cause significant damage to vehicles, from expensive repairs to a total loss. They reduce the vehicle's value, and only comprehensive motor insurance can help you deal the best with these losses. If you reside in a flood-prone area, you need to consult your insurance company to see if they can cover the cost of repairing the vehicle. You may even consider buying add-ons like Zero Depreciation cover, Non-Claim Bonus (NCB), Engine protection cover, Roadside Assistance cover, and more to further lower the impact of flood damage and provide broader coverage. If you live in a flood-prone area, then you always need to be on your toes and up-to-date with safe and reliable financial instruments like insurance to make damages appear less daunting.

Click HERE to buy comprehensive motor insurance for your car.

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 a country like India, a two-wheeler is one of the convenient options for commuting. It is affordable and preferred by the majority of people. As the cost of fuel prices is soaring high, two-wheeler has become people's favourite. Most people in India prefer a two-wheeler for all their travel needs.

However, an average Indian family consists of a minimum of three members, which makes it challenging to travel by road on a two-wheeler. A two-wheeler is designed to keep the needs of two people in mind, and using it for triple riding can be dangerous. When three people travel in a single vehicle, the risks increase manifold.

In this article, we will discuss why triple riding in India is a violation and should be avoided.

Furthermore, you should always have 2 wheeler insurance to help you tide over unwanted circumstances. It will ensure the safety of your vehicle at all times and prevent it from any financial harm during emergencies.

Why is triple riding prohibited in India?
Whenever roads are heavily congested by traffic, things ought to get complicated. India is no exception. It is the second most populated country that still lags in road planning and spacing. This leads to numerous road accidents daily. Henceforth, to tackle this problem, the Indian government has come up with a set of stringent traffic rules and regulations, including triple riding.

The main traffic rules related to triple riding via a two-wheeler are:
● Only two people, including the driver, should be allowed to sit on a two-wheeler.
● Both driver and pillion rider should be wearing helmets while riding.

If these two strict rules are not followed:
● You will be liable to pay a fine of up to INR 1000 to the traffic police. The fine rate can vary according to the state you live in.
● You may be prohibited from holding your driving license for up to three months. This means that you will not be able to drive around at all.

Why should triple riding be avoided?
Tripling has become extremely common in India. It is as common as jumping traffic lights or not wearing a helmet. Most people do not seem to care about the repercussions when they consider tripling.
Additionally, the bikers who opt for tripling are not only putting their lives at risk but also endangering the lives of others on the road. A two-wheeler is meant for two people and is mechanically incompatible with bearing the weight of three. This can damage the vehicle in the long run or cause problems at any time.
Mostly young riders of 18-25 years of age are spotted triple riding. They put their lives in danger without being aware of the traffic rules and the severity of the offense.

Triple riding is a regular sight in India. The government should make strict rules and levy heavy fines on riders who break the traffic rules. People try to overlook the consequences of tripling and consider it as a fair option for commuting, especially to travel short distances. Know your responsibility and act wisely when riding a 2 wheeler. Also, you should have 2 wheeler insurance so that there is no financial loss that you have to bear if you meet with an accident.

Click HERE to buy 2 wheeler insurance to keep your vehicle protected at all times.

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.

River cruises are one of the best ways to explore the country's backwaters and serene pockets with a mesmerising experience. Although it makes for an offbeat vacation, you will carry a bag full of memories on your way home. If you are into nature photography, this vacation will be a haven for you.

From the lush green surroundings of Kerala to the unexplored islands of Andaman, there's a lot to explore and discover as you go on your river cruise.

*Pro-tip
It is advisable to stay safe and secure in your journey, as you'll always be amidst waters. Buy an insurance policy online before you embark on your journey.

Let us walk you through all the possible travel destinations available via river and sea cruises in India.

1. Sunderbans:
Located in West Bengal, Sundarbans form the largest mangrove forest in the world. It is not only large in terms of area but also very captivating as the river cruise takes you through the pleasant delta of the river Brahmaputra. You'll be bestowed with the most picturesque landscapes when you undertake this journey. You're likely to spot numerous flora and fauna as you explore the waters of Brahmaputra. You're likely to spot monkeys, crocodiles, leopards, wild hogs, kingfishers, and Bengal tigers, among others.

2. Kerala:
The river cruises serve as one of the most exciting ways to explore the heart of Kerala. Being a state that is blessed with lush green surroundings and pristine backwaters, Kerala is a haven for nature lovers. While on a backwater cruise, you will feel closer to nature. You will also get a chance to look closely at the state's influential culture. The cruise guarantees you the journey of a lifetime. You can enjoy the fantastic surroundings of Kerala in comfort, luxury, and space. You will also be able to try authentic South Indian food on the cruise.

3. Goa:
There are many ways to enjoy Goa's fun and frolic life, but you must've never thought about spending time on a river cruise. Goa is bestowed with the beautiful Mandovi River, which can be an ideal place for a river cruise. The atmosphere on the cruise is always upbeat and lively. While you immerse yourself in Goan delicacies, you'll be presented with the scenic landscapes of Goa. It is a joy in itself.

4. Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
Andaman and Nicobar Islands is one of India's most stunning places to visit, allowing tourists to explore the unknown. The sea cruises of the islands are grand, elegant, and classy in every possible way. You will be bestowed with naturally green, serene, and exciting surroundings. Apart from that, the cruise is also well-adapted to fulfil all your needs. The amenities present on the cruise are world-class and adapted to the varied tastes of travellers.

5. Assam:
North-east India is a hidden gem of the country blessed with breathtaking views. The Brahmaputra River runs far and wide in this area, allowing tourists to explore it on a river cruise. A river cruise will open doors to several scenic locations like Kaziranga National Park, Majuli, and Guwahati. It is one of the best ways to bask in the glory of Assam.

Vacation cruises are one of the most delightful ways to explore India. It will allow you to look at the surroundings closely and collect lifetime memories. However, it is suggested that you always ensure your safety before setting out on a journey. Buy insurance policy online while booking your tickets, and be rest assured of your belongings and travel safety.

Click HERE to buy insurance policy 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.