Most two-wheeler owners want to protect their vehicles from any kind of damage. However, accidents cannot be predicted and you never know when you might have to pour all your savings into repairing your bike. Instead, invest in a good two wheeler insurance policy that not only protects you from such financial burden but also provides you with peace of mind.
Here are the two major types of bike insurance policies you must know of:
- Third-party liability
This cover is mandatory by law and offers protection against all types of damages and injuries caused to the third-party in an accident. Damages caused to the third-party’s person or property are covered; additionally, extreme situations such as the death of the third-party are also covered under this type of plan.
- Comprehensive policy
If you require wider coverage, you can opt for a comprehensive policy. Along with third-party liability,a comprehensive policy also covers own damage and protects you from damages caused due to man-made and natural calamities. Unlike the third-party cover, this plan is optional as it requires you to pay a little more premium. If your vehicle is brand new, purchasing a two wheeler insurance third party liability policyfor 5 years is mandatory. Otherwise, you can purchase a policy for 1 or 3 years.
Add-ons
If you’ve opted for a comprehensive policy for your bike, you also have the option of enhancing it by purchasing add-on covers. Your usual comprehensive plan still doesn’t cover things such as depreciation, therefore insurance companies have come up with these extra features. These features help you make complete use of your comprehensive two wheeler insurance plan. However, you have to pay additional premium for each additional cover that you purchase.
Here are some of the add-ons available that you can opt from:
- Zero Depreciation/Depreciation Shield
With this cover, full coverage is provided to your bike without considering depreciation. Otherwise, without this cover, you get the Insured Declared Value (IDV) of your bike in case of theft or total loss, or a ratio thereof to meet repair costs in the event of an accident.
- Key & Lock Replacement
You receive a fixed amount or actuals incurred for replacing the lost vehicle key. Purchase this cover if you’re someone with a habit of misplacing their car keys.
- 24×7 Roadside Assistance
In case of a vehicle breakdown, you can contact your insurer for assistance anytime and anywhere.
- Engine Protector
This add-on covers any damages caused to the engine due to leakage of oil, water ingression, etc. If you reside in a flood-prone area, this cover is a must-have.
- Consumables Expense
Expenses that are incurred as a result of the replacement of consumables such as oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc., duringpost-accident repair aren’t covered under the usual comprehensive two-wheeler insurance policy. This particular add-on ensures that these expenses are covered.
- Accident Shield
This cover insures the pillion rider, and is, hence, important to purchase.
Always make sure to check what add-ons are offered by your insurance company. If you wish to purchase a certain add-on later, you can do so at the time of two wheeler insurance renewal. Before you purchase the policy, it becomes imperative to check your policy document carefully to understand the exclusions and inclusions. Knowing what’s excluded from your policy is essential and helps while filing a claim. For example, if you cause an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or without a valid driving license, then your claim will get rejected.
Make a note of your budget as well as your necessities and only then buy the policy. To avail better deals, compare multiple policies online before buying.
