GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Motorcycles are a motorhead's most prized belongings. While some people use them for transportation, others use them for enjoyment and sports. Owning a motorbike requires taking care of it and ensuring that it is not damaged. Even when navigating challenging terrain, a well-maintained bike will not let you down. However, ignoring your bike may result in unnecessary damages.

Keeping your motorbike in perfect condition is as significant as owning it. To help you with that, we've discussed five essential points to keep your motorbike in good working order.

1. Changing your bike’s engine oil at regular intervals:
Multiple mechanical pieces constantly move and rub against each other in your motorcycle's engine every day. To ensure their best functioning and to reduce friction, you must lubricate them with motor oil. Unfortunately, dust and particles thicken the oil with time, reducing its lubricating power. Changing your motorcycle's oil every 2500-3000 kilometres helps improve performance and safeguard the engine from harm caused by outside elements mixed in with the old oil.

2. Checking the drive chain:
The drive chain is an essential component of your motorbike, and neglecting it is a call to a shorter service span. Inspect your drive chain regularly and ensure that the chain tension is correct. Lubricate it, particularly while it's heated. This allows the oil to flow and get into all portions of the chain, making it smooth for functions.

3. Taking care of your tyres:
You simply can't get anywhere without the tyres of your bike. The big rips or cracks on the tyres can cause them to lose friction. Check if the tread depth is within the approved limit. Don't hesitate to change them if you believe they are no longer safe.
Also, check the air pressure of the tyres regularly. The proper air pressure reduces or eliminates the possibility of a puncture, enhances bike control, and extends the life of the tyres.

4. Looking after the filters:
When your bike's air filter is congested, the engine has to work harder. Experts recommend cleaning the air filter using compressed air. If you realize that cleaning the air filter is becoming tricky, it is time to replace it. You must also ensure that the gasoline filter is clean and that the fuel lines are free of corrosion and cracks. You must repair them right away if you see any damage.

5. Checking up on your brakes:
Check brake fluid levels at regular intervals to ensure your motorcycle's brakes are properly functioning. Replace the brake fluid according to the manufacturer's instructions. In addition, you should check the thickness of the brake pads and replace them when needed.

Give your time to work on the above tips to keep your bike operating smoothly. This will help your 2 wheeler survive longer while giving you a comfortable and trouble-free riding experience.

Also, don't delay taking your motorcycle for regular servicing. Although this will cost you a few bucks, if you think of a longer run, you'll only benefit from it. Insurance is another way to take care of your bike. You may purchase 2 wheeler insurance online and choose the one with an attractive premium and additional features to safeguard your vehicle against any mishaps.

Click HERE to explore all the 2 wheeler insurance online plans.

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.

Your vehicle’s dashboard is usually something you don't give much attention to. That's because, unless something goes wrong, it often appears the same every time you drive. Cars have thousands of moving components comprising dozens of linked systems powered by cutting-edge technology and sensors. With that much computing power on board, if any error occurs, your car will undoubtedly alert you about them.

All the warning indicators in your car are explained in detail in your car's user manual, but reading through it may seem like a chore to many. However, the warning lights are there for a reason, and knowing what they represent can prove to be the difference between a good trip and a breakdown.

Here are five warnings that appear on all vehicle dashboards that you should never ignore.

1. Engine warning indicator:
This indicator means there might be a problem with your engine's primary systems. This problem might be as minor as a faulty sensor or a damaged spark plug or as severe as a damaged fuel pump. This indicator blinks for a few seconds when you start your vehicle. If the indicator remains on or blinks continuously, it indicates a serious problem.

2. Oil pressure indicator:
This indicator means that your engine's oil pressure is low. This might also mean that you're keeping low on engine oil. If this light comes on, turn off your ignition right away. Oil's shortage can cause irreversible engine damage. Check the oil level once you've parked safely on level ground. Fill it up if it's below the required mark. If the oil level is adequate, this might indicate a problem with the oil pump.

3. Brake warning indicator:
This indicator shows that you have left the handbrake on. Still, if it continues to flash even after you release the handbrake, it might indicate a problem associated with the braking system. See a mechanic right away.

4. Battery indicator:
It signifies that the alternator responsible for charging your car battery is malfunctioning and cannot provide an adequate charge. As the cells degrade with time, it might also be an issue with the battery. With the alternator and battery functioning poorly, you should minimize its load by turning off systems like AC and LEDs. Find a mechanic at the earliest because there may come a time when your vehicle won't start at all.

5. Engine temperature indicator:
The indicator typically signifies either your engine is overheating, or your coolant level is low and needs refilling. When this indicator flashes, it’s best that you immediately come to a halt and allow your engine to cool down. Check your coolant level and search for any leaks once the car engine has cooled. If the coolant level is correct, this indicator trigger might be a sign of a more severe issue, such as a damaged water pump.

An overheated engine can distort, causing parts to fail. Avoid driving further and tow your vehicle to the mechanic to avoid further damage to your car’s engine. Your car insurance features like roadside assistance will help you get complete service in case of any mishap in the middle of the road. You can enjoy the benefits of car insurance coverage without spending money from your side.

While these indicators signal that something needs attention, there is typically no reason to be alarmed. Most warning indicators will not leave you stuck, so you can generally safely drive yourself to a service station. Remember that these indicators change across automobile manufacturers and even within the same manufacturer's models. It is best to check with your mechanic if something worrisome flashes on your vehicle dashboard before it gets you in trouble.

Click HERE to know more about different car insurance plans suited 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.

Lubricating the car is essential to ensure your vehicle's overall fitness and functionality. The regular oil change is relatively an affordable maintenance task your vehicle requires, but the more important question is: How often should you change your engine oil? This entirely depends on the car’s usage. As a driver, you must look for typical signs your vehicle displays when it needs an oil change. You must detect the hints in advance to prevent them from developing severe damages.

This article will explain the top eight signs to heed that indicate an immediate oil change for your car.

• Check the oil change light. The engine sign will turn on if there isn’t enough oil in the engine. So, check the tank to discover what’s going on when the engine sign flashes.

• Engine knocking and noises. The oil acts as a friction barrier between engine components, preventing them from brushing and keeping the engine running silently. The engine noise will get intensified if the oil isn’t working perfectly.

• Change in the colour of the oil. The oil becomes darker and loaded with particles gathered from the engine as it gets utilized. Check your engine oil at least once every month by removing the dipstick from the oil tank. Make sure to wipe it clean before replacing it.

• Smoke from the exhaust. Your car’s exhaust always emits clear gas. But, if you observe smoke coming out from the exhaust, it’s time for a thorough engine inspection. It’s possible that you have a defective engine part or probably an oil leak.

• The odour of oil around the car. When you smell oil inside your vehicle, it’s usually a symptom of an oil leak. The car may overheat if you smell gasoline or vapours. In that case, you should schedule servicing right away after experiencing this.

• Excessive Travel. Consider an oil change quicker than the standard interval if you drive excessively. For example, you should change the oil every 10,000 km or half a year in new cars. For older cars, consider using high-mileage oil and change that every 5,000 Km.

• Fuel efficiency is poor. You would observe a decrease in fuel economy. However, this might indicate other issues with the fuel system, engine, or exhaust system. But an engine may fail to function if it isn’t getting adequately clean oil.

• The engine keeps stopping. If your car has been experiencing repeated engine difficulties, you should examine it. If your car stalls or feels like the engine seizes up at times, you might have low engine oil, poor oil, or an oil leak.

Only knowing how to drive a car isn’t enough; maintaining it is just as necessary. As with every other machine, your car won’t perform the best if not taken care of regularly. If you don’t change your car’s oil regularly, its performance can degrade quickly, resulting in catastrophic damage to your vehicle.

To avoid the consequences, you must watch out for indications that lead you to the warnings of an oil change. Like oil, your car insurance is another thing that needs continual renewal. Car insurances are financial saviours and are required when they are about to expire. Do not forget to check out your car insurance renewal dates and keep them updated to enjoy the uninterrupted benefits of the existing policy.

For your car insurance renewal, 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.

If you get to have a conversation with a motorhead, you'll probably hear them say that the joy of riding a motorbike comes second to none. A feast for the senses, riding is exhilarating and comforting to motorcyclists. It fosters joy, excitement, thrill, and pleasure. When you ride, you feel liberated, and there is always something new to discover and learn when you're on the roads.

Life throws a lot of experiences at you while on a motorbike trip. You can learn a lot about yourself and others while you are steering your way through the places and covering distances. Bike trips are much more than fun. Such trips can be a great way to connect to your deeper self and unravel fresh experiences and valuable lessons that may change your perspective towards life.

Here are a few life lessons that you can learn when you set out for a bike trip.

1. You’re a tiny but important part of this world:
As a motorcyclist, you share the road with fellow riders. It’s important to respect each vehicle on the road. So, consider yourself important as your discipline makes a significant contribution on the road.

2. Life is too short:
We all have witnessed reckless drivers—cutting into lanes without proper signals, speeding in single lanes, and whatnot. Viewing any mishap or accident is a terrible experience during your long riding trip, but you realize how suddenly things can change. It makes you more careful and appreciative of everything as they are here and now.

3. Focus on your goal:
While driving a car, drivers often engage in distracting activities like adjusting the AC knob and tuning to a radio station. But when you're riding, it's just you, your bike, and the road. There are no distractions, and you just concentrate on the road in front. Likewise, we must focus on what is essential in life. Concentrate on the future and don’t allow minor inconveniences to detract you from your ambitions in life.

4. You learn to let go your ego:
As we said, we've all seen our fair share of terrible drivers. Sometimes you are triggered and obliged to accept the situation because you cannot confront every other vehicle on the road. You learn to swallow your ego and remain patient to handle things maturely. Staying calm and tackling problems with patience is not less than any winning formula to live happily.

5. Practice makes an individual perfect:
No one is born perfect, but we can ace any talent with positive intent and dedicated practice. Every ride you take fills you with new experiences and learnings that you can ponder and do better on your next ride. Consistency and a positive mindset are vital to master your fears and weaknesses.

When you are riding, relax your soul and enjoy the present moment. There's plenty to experience even in the most unlikely locations. Hop on the motorbike and discover life like never before. Like life, the roads are uncertain; but something certain is ensuring safety. This is yet another lesson that bike trips teach us; to be responsible for your safety and possessions. So, be responsible and purchase bike insurance for the additional protection of your bike. You may surf through multiple bike insurance online and buy the one that assures value for money.

Click HERE to get 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.

There is no denying that many outdated vehicles are still plying on Indian roads, causing massive pollution. Therefore, the Government of India has unveiled the Nation's new Vehicle Scrapping Policy. The main object of this updated policy is to get rid of old and unfit automobiles that produce pollution. The government aims to clean up the air, and the efforts are commendable.

If you have an outdated two-wheeler at home and are considering scrapping it, here are some things you should know prior.

1. Mandatory fitness examination:
The procedure of obtaining a fitness certificate would become significantly strict under the updated scrappage Policy. If your two-wheeler is more than 20 years old, you will have to take a fitness test for your vehicle.
Automobiles registered for business use are subject to the fitness standards once they go beyond the 15 years mark. Computerized workshops will be set up around the Nation. This will result in pinpoint accuracy and faster tests.

2. Compulsory end of life vehicle certification:
If your bike fails the fitness test, you will be required to get an ‘End of Life Vehicle certificate’. This is because used automobiles contain dangerous compounds such as lead-acid batteries, lubricating oil, coolant, braking fluid, and catalytic converters. If not disposed of properly, these compounds can contaminate the environment and risk human health and wildlife.

Benefits of scrapping your old bike:
If you're purchasing a new vehicle under the scrappage program, you will receive a 4 to 6% refund off the total price. In addition, state governments can recommend a road-tax credit of up to 25% for personal automobiles and up to 15% for commercial automobiles. In some cases, automobile manufacturers also offer a 5% discount to those who present the 'Scrapping Certificate,' and registration expenses will be waived when purchasing a new vehicle.

Additional pointers to know:

• The policy will not apply to vintage bikes.

• Hybrid and electric bikes are exempted.

• A bike that runs on alternative fuels like CNG is exempted.

When will the policy come into action?
The updated policy will come to force starting with large commercial automobiles, requiring mandatory fitness testing beginning April 1st, 2023. In a phased approach, all other vehicles will be subject to the fitness test starting June 1st, 2024.

Final Say:

The policy is set to come into action in the year 2022; the most crucial stage for the proposed program to succeed is to construct the necessary infrastructure across the nation immediately. As things stand, India has seven computerized fitness test facilities and two official scrappage sites. To meet the market demand, more such facilities are provisioned in coming years.

This policy will encourage the bike sale, benefit the environment, and a step towards a greener future. While benefiting from all the incentives when you dispose of your 2 wheeler, add an extra benefit of insurance to the bundle of happiness. Buy a 2 wheeler insurance online, customize your plan according to your needs, and include the add-ons that can help you when you plan to buy a new two-wheeler after disposing of the old one.

Click HERE to get 2 wheeler 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.

We all want our cars to stay forever sparkling and perfect, and we do everything in our capacity to keep them brand-new. Still, we cause some damage to the vehicles. It doesn't matter if you are an experienced driver or a learner; we all sometimes make mistakes as a result of particular bad habits.

These incorrect driving habits lead to unnecessary wear and tear to the vehicles and spending more money on repairs in the garage. To avoid it, we have shared 07 driving habits that you might need to look into immediately.

1. Not slowing down at potholes and speed breakers:
At least one-third of the damage to your cars occurs due to not slowing down over potholes and bumpers. It is not practically possible to avoid potholes everywhere you drive, so the least you can do is slow down.
Not slowing down on potholes can cause buckled wheels, lumps in the tyres, and even cracked alloys. The same goes for speed breakers; if you slow down on a speed breaker, you can avoid severe damage to the underside of your car and the exhaust system.

2. Continuing to drive your car at a low fuel level:
People fill up the tank when it reaches the 1/4 mark. At the same time, others push their cars to their limits. If you're the second type, you may be causing damage to your vehicle. When your fuel tank is nearly empty, the car will draw petrol from the very bottom. This may appear harmless, but the base is usually where all the toxins settle and concentrate, and if there is a significant build-up of impurities, it may clog your filters which might enter the engine.

3. Overloading your car:
We all have a habit of leaving something behind in the car, thinking it does not make a big difference. But all this extra load brings strain on your car’s brakes and suspension. Therefore, think twice before loading unnecessary luggage in the trailer next time. Plus, you will also form a habit of keeping your car clutter-free.

4. Smoking in the car:
Smoke from the cigarette makes your car stink. But the problem does not stop there. Over time, the particles from the smoke will mix with the car's material, leading to bad odour and discolouration of surfaces. This becomes tough to get rid of and will eventually deplete the value of your vehicle.

5. Revving your engine too soon in cold weather:
Revving your engine too soon will damage the engine's parts which are not yet lubricated with engine oil. Therefore, allow the engine to warm up properly before revving.

6. Applying brakes too late:
If you are habitual of harshly applying breaks at the last moment, it creates strain on the brake and makes the discs and pads wear out fast. Instead, maintain a steady speed and oversee the obstacles to avoid sudden and harsh braking.

7. Resting your hands on the gear stick:
Keeping your hand on the gear stick can be bad for the transmission because the constant pressure will cause it to wear out much faster.

Take a note of these driving habits that you might be doing unknowingly and keep your car safe from unnecessary damages. Another bad habit that may affect your car’s safety is neglecting your car insurance renewal. It is important to keep your car insurance renewal up-to-date and follow the above tips to keep your car looking and running great.

Click HERE to know more about the car insurance plans.

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.

Two-wheelers are the most preferred travelling option for people from home to the workplace as they help your way through traffic smoothly. Moreover, as they have become daily support for middle-class families, many have dreamed of buying a two-wheeler, mainly since the pandemic emerged.

There are plenty of benefits to buying a second-hand two-wheeler. But before you purchase one, there are a few important things you need to keep in mind to ensure that you get the best value for money. For example, you don’t want to buy a vehicle that troubles you with additional money on maintenance or repair.

Below are a few tips to help you get the best deals for your second-hand two-wheeler.

1. Understanding the purpose of your vehicle:
If you need a vehicle for long trips, you will have to search for a high-performance touring bike to make your journey pleasant. Similarly, if you need a two-wheeler for your daily use, you may look for a comfortable motorcycle or scooter with a decent average.

2. Finding where you can purchase two-wheelers:
There are plenty of resellers available, both online and offline. You can directly approach offline showrooms of used two-wheelers or ask your friends for referrals. You can also check for resellers online to find a credible seller. It always helps if you connect with them in person and understand all the details.

3. Check the two-wheeler thoroughly:
Sometimes what you see online can be deceiving. Therefore, it is essential to check the vehicle personally. When you check the two-wheeler in person, you can observe the minor details such as any scratches, dents, and how well it is maintained. No matter where you buy the vehicle from, there are two necessary checks:

• Mechanical check

• Paperwork

In mechanical check, always look out for any rust, scratches, engine check, oil check, oil leakage (if any), dents, mileage, accident damage, brakes, air cleaners, gears, clutch, how many kilometres it has run already, and more.
Similarly, you need to check for a PUC certificate, RC book, service history, tax certificate, NOC, and more for paperwork.

4. Ask for a test drive:
The best way to know if the vehicle works appropriately and suits you the best is to take a test drive. Taking a test drive will help you understand if you are comfortable with the bike’s performance and power. Even if your bike looks perfect, it may not be a comfortable ride for you. Therefore, ensure that you do not miss out on the test drive.

5. Know the market value and negotiate well:
Once you are satisfied with the vehicle’s condition and the documents, you can do thorough research online about the current market value of the two-wheeler you are purchasing. You can talk to the seller and negotiate for the final price you are willing to pay. Once you and the seller come to a final price, you can sign the official paperwork and make the payment!

The tips mentioned above can help you pick the best two-wheeler and ensure that you are getting the best deals! But remember that buying a second-hand two-wheeler is just the first step. You need to ensure its safety by adding a layer of protection in the form of 2 wheeler insurance. You may opt for 2 wheeler insurance online and avail exciting deals and lower premium options offering the best value-to-your-money.

Click HERE to buy 2 wheeler insurance online for your two-wheeler.

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.

Relocating to another state appears to be a daunting task if you’re experiencing it for the first time. There are multiple things to take care of while planning a relocation. From packing stuff and moving to another state to adjusting to the changing environment can irk you badly.

What worries you the most is the transfer of your bike registration that needs to be thoroughly examined during the entire relocation process. You need to acquaint yourself with the registration process of the new state and accordingly schedule your timelines for the same. This is indeed a cumbersome task, but we are here with our guide to make this process a swift one before it turns out to be a daunting task.

1. New state, fresh registration:
There are two scenarios that you need to understand. First, if you are relocating for less than a year, you don’t need to transfer the RC. But, if you’re planning to settle in the new state for more than a year, then you will have to go through a transfer process. Initially, you need to visit the RTO near your area and get a No Objection Certificate (NOC) as clearance for your bike. Then, after transferring to the new state, you will have to apply for fresh registration of RC of your motorcycle in the RTO of the new state.

2. What documents to carry?

Following is the list of documents required for the re-registration process.

• Original copy of Previous Registration Certificate.

• Three copies of Form 28 or the NOC issued by your local state’s RTO.

• NOC obtained from the local police station.

• NOC from Traffic police personnel.

• Form 20 as the application for the registration of the motor vehicle.

• Form 27 as the application for the assignment of a new registration mark to the motor vehicle.

• Attested copy of address proof.

• Attested copy of valid insurance.

• Attested copy of the Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUC).

• Copy of PAN Card or Form 60 and 61

3. Visit the RTO of the new state and complete the re-registration:
Visit the local RTO at your new location with all the above documents and fill your application for re-registration. Carefully provide all the essential information and verify all the documents thoroughly before submitting them to the officials. Once you fill the form and submit all your documents, you’re through your bike registration in the new state.

4. Fill the new road tax challan followed by vehicle inspection:
After completing the registration process at the new RTO, you will be asked to pay the required fees for that state’s new road tax challan issued by the RTO. Make the payment and collect your challan. The next step is the inspection of your bike. An RTO officer will conduct an assessment of your vehicle to check the condition of your bike and its parts. The primary purpose of the inspection is to ensure that your bike qualifies all the general safety requirements. All the collected data is stored for future reference along with the imprint of the chassis number.

5. The last step, and it’s done!
After completing verification, if your RC gets approved, you will be allotted a date to visit the RTO and collect your new RC.

To sum it up, make your relocation process manageable by following our guide. Follow all the steps mindfully and without any delays. Importantly, complete the entire registration process before your NOC expires. Considering all these factors, it is also essential to inform your bike insurance provider about your relocation. Provide all the details to the insurance company to verify your case and compute the insurance premium for your bike.

Click HERE to get the details about bike insurance to satisfy your requirements.

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.