GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Imagine you are on a road trip, and suddenly you encounter a “flat tyre” situation. While you may think you should let a mechanic handle it, sometimes giving it a try on your own can be a much easier job to do. Changing the tyre is not challenging, nor does it need you to be “strong.” Just a few tips, and you are sorted to fix the issue all by yourself. In this blog, we have broken down the steps to learn how to change your tyre quickly!

Before you learn how to change the tyre, here’s something you should note:

Remember to keep a spare tyre in your car for emergencies. Moreover, pull over to a safe place and avoid parking on a slope or a dangerous road.

Furthermore, whenever you park, keep your parking lights on. This is crucial when it is dark so that the passing vehicles on the road will be aware of your car which reduces the chances of accident.

What are the tools you will need?

Before we begin with the steps, these are the tools you will need to change your vehicle’s tyre on your own.

● A spare tyre

● Carjack

● Lug wrench

● Wheel nut key

● Reflective jacket

● Car owner’s manual/handbook

Additional things you may need:

● Torch

● Gloves

● Warning triangle

● Wheel wedges

● Short plank of wood (optional)

Step-By-Step Guide to change your vehicle’s tyre on your own:

If you learn how to change your vehicle’s tyre once, you can easily do it whenever you need it next time.

Step 1: Pull over to a safe place and prepare for your tyre change. Pull the hand brakes and keep your vehicle in the first gear. Now, take out all the essential tools mentioned above. If you have an automatic car, put it in the “park” mode.

Note: If you have people sitting in your car, ask everyone to stand in a safe place. Avoid people sitting in your car until the tyre has been changed.

Step 2: Now, loosen all the nuts from the wheel by rotating them anti-clockwise. Note that you only need to loosen the nuts to a point where they are rotatable with your hand and NOT remove them altogether.

Step 3: If you are unaware of your car’s jack point, check out your car’s manual. Now, use your jack to uplift the vehicle. You can use the small wood of plank to keep the vehicle stable; this is crucial when the road is uneven. Raise the car 10-15 cms above the ground.

Step 4: Next step is to remove the loosened wheel nuts and remove the tyre using a cross-wrench.

Step 5: You can remove the dirt or rust in the vehicle hub and start placing your new tyre.

Step 6: Fit all the nuts into the tyre and tighten them with your hands.

Step 7: Use the jack to lower your car to the ground level again.

Step 8: Now, tighten the screws fully with the cross-wrench. Give a final check to the tightness and if needed, go to the nearby gas station to get the pressure level checked.

Take your punctured tyre for repair and later replace it with the spare one.

Since you know how to change the tyre of your vehicle, next time, you won't have to wait on a street for a mechanic or a passerby to come for your help. Besides learning the essential maintenance tips, it is also important to invest in the vehicle’s safety against heavy damages caused due to uninvited accidents. Buy motor insurance online and get useful coverage add-ons for your vehicle’s servicing and repair works.

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 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.

Surviving the heat of the hectic work schedules throughout the week and managing the balance between work and personal life is challenging. Mumbai’s fast-paced lifestyle can turn overwhelming as the weekend arrives. But there is a cure for this; Planning a weekend getaway to someplace away from the city chaos. This time think something different for the weekend besides the long drive trips to Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar or jetty rides to Alibaugh. We suggest a full-fledged camping experience to surrender in the arms of nature.

Don't miss out on the escape to the perfect experience of reviving your connection with nature. This article presents a cumulated list of camping sites in a radius of about 200 km from Mumbai.

1. Bhandardara, Ahmednagar:
Known for its patent Fireflies festival, Bhandardara is one of the top places for camping, especially for Mumbaikars. Located 165 kilometres from Mumbai, the destination allows you to have a comfortable long drive on NH3. This camping site also offers you amazing activities such as stargazing, constellation watching, and boating in the lake. Spend some peaceful time in serenity and flush out all the stress of the week during your stay at this beautiful campsite.

2. Malshej Ghat, Kalyan–Ahmednagar Road:
Tucked in the Western Ghats and home to a diverse range of biota is another lush spot for night camping named Malshej ghat. This could be your go-to place if you’re seeking a camping experience all by yourself. The mild air can soothe even the most restless hearts, and the mist and rain create the perfect environment for solitude.

3. Karnala, Mumbai-Goa highway:
Mumbaikars are no strangers to the name Karnala. The fort and sanctuary located here are famous all around the Raigad district. What makes it one of the most extraordinary monsoon retreats is its blanketed hillocks with verdant forests, grass, and foliage throughout the season.

4. Uttan, Mumbai:
Despite being located in Mumbai, this place is cuddled in a beautiful natural setting, far from the usual concrete jungle that we see. Situated at the city’s northern fringes, this is a laid-back fishers town. Visit it to live underneath the stars, eat fresh and delicious seafood, watch live music, and participate in thrilling adventure sports. What makes it even more exciting is that you don’t have to travel more than 50 km to reach the destination.

5. Kolad, Roha:
Residing on the banks of the river Kundalika, Kolad is one of the most serene camping spots around Mumbai. It is also known for being the favourite river rafting destination for Mumbaikars. It is left untouched by wannabe tourists, and hence the only thing that breaks the peaceful stillness is the chirps of birds and babbles of the river.

6. Pawna Lake, Pune:
This lake is an ideal weekend getaway for people who want to absorb the wonderful natural environs. As it rests in the woods, it provides the campers with a great deal of peace and contentment. This site has views that satisfy your exact image of lakeside camping.

Having tons to offer in connection with adventure, nature, relaxation, and breathtaking vistas, these camping sites will undoubtedly provide you with lifelong memories. However, the true essence of any trip can be experienced when it is crafted with security assured at all stages. You won’t like to carry the stress of the safety of your belongings and valuables when you’re out to enjoy your holidays. So, protect your travel with Magma HDI’s online general insurance plan that will ensure your assets’ security throughout your trip.

To look for online general insurance, click HERE .

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

There is no question that motorcyclists are crazy about their bikes and want to keep them glowing all the time. Most of the time, even seasonal changes won’t derail their desire to have a shining bike. Seasonal changes like wet and humid weather harm the two-wheelers most, mainly the rusting. Rust is an awful deal to handle when the bike has seen mud, water, ice, and road salt.

But there are DIY hacks that help you combat rust and preserve the life of your two-wheeled companion. In today’s article, we’ll discuss some clever, useful hacks that will help you handle rust efficiently.

1. Lemon Juice to remove rust:

The acidic nature of lemon helps eliminate rust in its early stages before it affects the inside metal. Here’s how to use it:

• Collect ample lemon juice in a cup.

• Apply the juice thoroughly onto a ball of steel wool with the help of a spoon, or simply dip the steel wool in the cup.

• Rub the rusted areas gently with steel wool.

• Wipe away the extra lemon juice and rust particles using tissue paper, done!

*keep the juice away from your eyes and any open wounds as it may cause burns due to its acidic nature. Wear gloves and glasses for precaution.

2. Get rid of rust using potatoes and salt:

When it comes to organic cleaning, this small technique is fantastic to have on hand. Here’s how you can use this duo to get rid of that adamant rust;

• Cut a potato in half.

• Rub the sliced portion of the potato on salt, thoroughly coating it.

• Rub the salted potato over the rusted parts vigorously. Slice the salted end of the potato off and dip it in extra salt as needed.

• Thoroughly rinse afterwards.

The oxalic acid present in potatoes naturally helps dissolve rust, while the salt works as an abrasive.

3. Sandpaper to scrape off the rust:
Use sandpaper to get rid of rust from parts such as engine and transmission, as these parts require precise attention. A slight deviation can throw everything off if not done correctly.

4. Baking soda to remove rust:
Make a thick mixture of water and baking soda and rub it all over the rusted surface. Let the paste settle on the bike's surface for about an hour. Rub the surface with steel wool. Rinse thoroughly with water & dry it using a paper towel.

5. Scrubbing – the good old way:
Simply scrubbing using a wire brush is also effective in getting rid of rust from larger bike parts. This technique, however, is not suggested for chrome parts of your bike since you may wind up scratching them.

Although these organic rust removing techniques are excellent, most of them are acid-based, and they have the potential to damage your bike, particularly in areas with mixed materials such as steel + rubber or steel + plastic.

It's best to hand over your motorcycle to experts for rust removals if it is heavily covered in rust. They make sure you get the best results while assuring the perseverance of your bike. A good 2 wheeler insurance provides the security covers with these aspects as well, including rust remover. So if you have 2 wheeler insurance, you can claim the rust repairs under it. Be a responsible owner and make investments that can yield you considerable profits. After all, your two-wheeler is a prized possession, and maintaining it in good shape should be your priority.

Click HERE to know more about 2 wheeler insurance.to know more about 2 wheeler 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.

Being a mother is not easy, and if you are a working mom, it becomes even more challenging and overwhelming. Waking up every morning, dropping your kid at daycare, commuting to your office, working there for at least eight hours, buying groceries on your way back to pick up the kids, and going home again only to work more can be physically, mentally and even emotionally exhausting.

Managing your responsibilities to your child, your career, your social life, and trying to find some time for yourself at the end of the day is challenging and will leave you with a tiring schedule. The feeling of being stuck in an endless routine of stress and bare minimum sleep can adversely affect your health.

And in times like these, when you need more energy than ever, there are stories of a few inspiring moms who have proved that nothing can stop you from achieving any milestones in your life if you master your command over situations.

So, what is the secret to managing stress and having an efficient work-life balance for working women? Not just the work-life balance, it has to be the blend of both. Let's tell you how you can achieve that.

1. Involve your kids:
Many parents have the habit of starting household work only after their kid’s bedtime, which only delays things. So, do not be hesitant to complete your routine work even when your kids are awake. You will be surprised by how much time you can save this way. Sure, you can’t do everything with your kids around, but do not get delayed to do basic tasks.

2. Your partner:
Do not forget that your partner is equally responsible for raising the child and fulfilling their duty as a co-parent. Raising a baby alone is very challenging, so it is only understood if you and your partner share the work, like:

• Both partners should take turns dropping and picking up their children from the daycare or school.

• If you have a small baby who wakes up in the middle of the night, alternately wake up with it so both of you can get some rest.

• Love is all about caring and understanding. Cherish the most beautiful moments of life and team up with your partner to swiftly manage all the odds.

3. Bring your child to work (only if it is permissible):
Familiarize them with what to do. Allow them to understand and see your workplace. Introduce your children to your coworker’s kid. This is all very helpful.

The most important thing that you should never forget is to take out some time for yourself. Remember to prioritize yourself and your desires, too, because, in the end, if you feel miserable, there is no way you can take care of everyone else.

Even if you are feeling completely worn out, don’t skip meals or jeopardize your sleep hours in a day. Never compromise your mental or physical health for anything. Another crucial aspect that can keep your stress away and ensure your overall well-being is getting health insurance coverage for you and your loved ones. Stand a chance of getting exciting deals and incentives by buying online health insurance from insurance firms to keep the financial worries related to medical treatment at bay.

Click HERE to get online health insurance quotes.

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.

Whether you are driving a motorbike or car, having a valid licence is mandatory. Most driving licences are issued for approximately 20 years or until the driver turns 50 years (whichever is earlier). Therefore, you need to renew your licence once it expires. Note that your driving experience and capabilities during your previous licence will not be considered for the renewal of it. Additionally, if you do not renew your licence until a year after the licence’s expiration, you will have to go through the entire process of getting a licence again.

Moreover, your driving licence is valid up to 30 days from expiration. Gone are the days when you had to stand in a long queue at the RTO’s office for the renewal of your licence. Due to covid’s second wave, the government issued a hassle-free way to apply for the renewal online in just a few simple steps.

No matter which state you reside in, you can easily apply for renewal from the comfort of your home. Continue reading the blog to discover all the vital steps you can take to get your licence renewed.

Steps to renew your driving licence online:

Step 1: Visit the official website of Parivahan Sewa Portal of MoRTH (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways) by clicking HERE
or head to HTTPS://SARATHI.PARIVAHAN.GOV.IN/.

Step 2: Next, enter your state’s name on your screen.

Step 3: You will now be redirected to the page with various options. Select “apply for DL renewal.”

Step 4: Now, a page with instructions will appear. Carefully read each instruction to avoid committing any mistake.

Step 5: Click on “continue” at the bottom of page and proceed further to the application form.

Step 6: Now, fill your application. Enter your previous driving licence’s number and date of birth and click on “continue.” Fill all the details and provide information as asked on your screen.

Step 7: Depending on your state, you may also require to upload your signature and photo.

Note: If you need to make changes to your medical certificates, you may have to book a time slot to undergo the RTO test.

Step 8: Now, the site will take you to the acknowledgement page, where you can see your application ID. Additionally, all the application details will be sent to you through SMS on your registered mobile number. Make sure you print out the acknowledgement for future reference.

Step 9: The final step is to make the payment and verify your payment status. You can pay through a debit or credit card. Usually, the fees may vary from one state to another.

Simply follow the above steps to renew your existing licence in a fast, convenient, and hassle-free way. Never drive a vehicle without a proper licence. If you are caught driving without a licence and valid insurance papers, you will be fined with penalties. Be a responsible driver; keep all your essential documents ready with you at all times, including your car’s insurance papers. If the insurance is due, make an online motor insurance renewal to ensure the benefits of your policy and protect you against any mishaps.

Click HERE to get the best quotes for online motor insurance renewal.

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.

Following year-long debate and discussions, the Indian government finally allowed CNG kits for two-wheelers as well. Interestingly, CNG kits can efficiently be installed even in mopeds with about 81.75 cc to 136.25 cc capacity. However, there are some restrictions on the installation of CNG kits in two-wheelers. ICAT and Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) respectively approve only Euro-III-type automobiles to install these CNG kits.

CNG costs much cheaper than petrol or diesel and gives clean fuel to two-wheelers. This suggests that converting your two-wheeler into CNG will prove to be economically practical.

Advantages of installing CNG conversion kits:

• Natural gas is a cheaper alternative to petroleum as it costs almost one-third of petrol in some states of India. Natural gas is as cheap as 49.40 rupees per Gasoline Gallon Equivalent (GGE).

• CNG is less harmful to the environment than petrol. Compared to petrol and diesel, natural gas emits much less hazardous pollutants and hydrocarbons, thereby reducing the adverse effects of harmful emissions on the environment and human health.

• When compared to gasoline, CNG produces fewer toxic carbon deposits when burned. As a result, the engine is cleaner and more efficient. It removes the carbon deposits that taint the oil, reducing the need for oil changes.

• India has a well-developed pipeline network and abundant natural gas reserves. Switching to CNG fuel can help our nation to be less reliant on the import of oil.

• CNG can save your bike from getting green taxes. Vehicles that pass the automated fitness centres test are given a green tax at the time of registration. However, vehicles with CNG kits are exempted.

Disadvantages of installing CNG conversion kits:

• CNG tanks require more space. As a result, you may have to give up some room off your two-wheeler. In addition, a CNG cylinder can be a little heavier, which can be a difficulty in the handling of the two-wheeler.

• There are a limited number of CNG filling stations. Therefore, people who live in places with no easy access to CNG filling stations won't find CNG conversion the most efficient option.

• The cost of a CNG kit and the initial installation is high that refrains a decent population from installing these kits on their two-wheelers.

Experts believe air pollution will substantially decrease if more two-wheelers owners decide to switch to the CNG option. With global environmental issues bringing new challenges time and again, finding greener solutions and implementing them is a need of the hour.

Installing a CNG kit in your two-wheeler is not enough to improve the mileage and save additional expenses. Another thing to consider about CNG fitted two-wheelers is the expensive repair cost in case of an accident. Therefore, you require extra protection of a 2 wheeler insurance. Check out Magma HDI’s 2 wheeler insurance online and make your journeys stress-free and financially safe against adverse situations.

Environment-friendly and sustainable practices can be our first step towards a secure future. If you’re ready to compromise with the minor discomforts and consider pollution as a bigger threat, then switching to natural alternatives is the best choice that you can make!

Click HERE to get your 2 wheeler insurance online with us.

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 city, highways, and the sky above look much more beautiful at night. And, driving alongside the stars and the pleasant winds is a memorable experience. But apart from the nicer part, night time driving is also dangerous. One of the main reasons is the decreased visibility during the night due to the low contrast and the glare of the headlights of vehicles coming from the front.

The probability of a fatal car accident increases three times during the night. When we are exhausted and sleepy, our reaction time is slow, and we cannot think or make any decisions correctly. As a result, our overall spatial and environmental awareness decreases.

Due to the condition and unpredictability of Indian roads and traffic, driving at night is a challenge. Still, if you are planning to take a long road journey at night, follow these 09 safety practices.

1. Driving at a slower speed:
37% of night time road accidents are due to speeding compared to only 21% in the daytime. We advise you to drive at a speed lower than you typically do on the same road in daylight.

2. Drive with someone:
It is always better to drive with someone at night as the two of you can take turns driving every two hours. This way, both will receive some rest, and neither will be too exhausted while driving.

3. Take a nap:
Whenever you start feeling drowsy, pull over and take a nap. Even an hour’s rest will keep you going for the next three to four hours. Ensure that the place you pull over is safe; a restaurant’s parking lot or petrol pump is better than a random spot on the highway. Remember to lock doors and check your surroundings properly.

4. Maintain a safe distance:
It is an essential practice for driving. This becomes even more important during nights because our reaction time and judgment abilities are always lower than in the daytime.

5. Dim the lights:
Avoid using high beams on busy roads as you will only be blinding the other drivers. But in case the lights on the highways are dim, switch to using high beams.

6. Drunk driving:
Drunk driving is illegal; still, many drivers don’t consider it serious. So, even if you do not drink, you are likely to meet many other drunk drivers on your way. Therefore, drive with caution as drunk drivers are likely not to follow signals properly and abruptly stop or switch lanes. Even if it's not your fault, you may have to pay the price. Here, good car insurance can assist you with covering the financial losses.

7. Clean your car:
Focus more on the windscreens and windows as this will increase the visibility. Keep the wipers in proper working condition. Fix any cracks or scratches in the glass as they are likely to scatter light.

8. Be well rested:
If you know that you will be driving at night, it is advisable to rest appropriately the day before. Also, take care of your eyes, wear anti-reflecting glasses to avoid high beams.

9. Eat a light meal:
Having heavy meals will make you feel sleepy and bloated, therefore stick to fruits and vegetables, and stay away from fast food.

Driving at night is not the safest choice but by being alert, sober, and following the practices mentioned above, we can make night journeys safe and convenient for you and other commuters. Also, driving at night does not mean you remain in the dark when it comes to your car insurance. Purchasing ideal car insurance and adhering to traffic laws and driving ethics can assure vehicle safety under all circumstances.

Looking for car insurance? Click HERE to get the best quotes.

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.