Is Riot Damage Covered Under a Bike Insurance Policy?

Riots are scary and often result in property damage. What if your precious two-wheeler is damaged in a riot? If this question bothers you, and you need coverage for your bike, especially in a riot, having bike insurance plan covers the damages caused to your bike in a riot.

Which Bike Insurance Policies Cover Riot Damage?

Third-party bike insurance does not cover damage caused by riots or civil disturbances. To get protection against such risks, you need own-damage insurance or a comprehensive bike insurance policy that includes riot and strike cover. These policies help cover repair costs if your bike is damaged during unrest. Having the right coverage ensures better financial safety and peace of mind. Always read your policy coverage carefully before landing on a decision.

What Types of Riot-Related Damages Are Covered?

Riot-related damages covered under own-damage or comprehensive bike insurance include dents, broken parts, smashed headlights, fire damage, stone-pelting damage, vandalism, and even theft during riots. If the bike is damaged beyond repair, the policy may also cover total loss. However, this coverage applies only when riots are listed under man-made calamities in the policy wording. Always check your policy terms to confirm this protection.

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What Is Not Covered Under Riot Damage Claims?

Riot damage claims may be rejected in the following situations:

• No coverage under third-party bike insurance

• Damage is intentional or self-inflicted

• Riding the bike during active riots or unrest

• Claim filed without valid documents

• Policy is expired at the time of damage

• The repair cost is below the deductible amount

• Damage falls under the exclusions mentioned in the policy terms

Things to Do If Your Bike Is Damaged in a Riot

In an unfortunate event where your bike is damaged in a riot, you need to do the following things immediately:

• Ensure your personal safety first and move away from the affected area

• Avoid any confrontation or risky situations

• File a police FIR as soon as possible

• Inform your insurance company without delay

• Take clear photos and videos of the damage as proof

• Do not repair the bike before the insurer’s inspection

• Check that your insurance policy is valid and active

How to File a Bike Insurance Claim for Riot Damage?

To file a bike insurance claim for riot-related damage, you can visit your insurer’s official website and follow these steps:

• Go to the “Claims” section on the insurance provider’s portal

• Enter your policy details

• Enter required details such as contact information, chassis number, date and time of the riot incident, location of damage, and vehicle inspection address

• Receive a claim reference number for future tracking

• Send your bike to an authorised garage for inspection and repairs

• For cashless claims, the insurer directly settles the repair cost with the garage

• For reimbursement claims, submit all bills and documents for verification, after which the insurer processes the payment

Documents Required for Riot Damage Bike Insurance Claim

To successfully file a bike insurance claim for riot-related damage, you need to submit the following documents:

• Duly filled and signed claim form

• Copy of valid bike insurance policy

• Registration Certificate (RC) of the vehicle

• Driving licence of the rider (if applicable)

• Police FIR copy mentioning riot or civil disturbance

• Photographs and videos of the damages caused by riot

• Repair estimate from the authorised garage

• Original repair bills and payment receipts (for reimbursement claims)

• Cancelled cheque or bank details for claim settlement

• Identity proof of the policyholder

Cashless vs Reimbursement Bike Insurance Claims for Riot Damage

In a cashless claim, your insurer directly settles the repair cost for riot-related damage with a network garage, so you only pay deductibles, depreciation, and non-covered expenses. This is the easiest option during unrest situations.

In a reimbursement claim, you first pay for the repairs at any garage and later submit bills to the insurer for refund after verification. In both cases, the policyholder must bear compulsory deductibles, parts depreciation, and any costs not covered under the policy terms.

Will Riot Damage Claims Affect No Claim Bonus (NCB)?

Yes, riot damage claims usually affect your No Claim Bonus (NCB) because they are filed under the own-damage section of your bike insurance policy. Once you make a claim for riot-related damage, your accumulated NCB is reduced or lost at renewal. To protect your NCB, you can consider opting for an NCB protection add-on if available.

How to Protect Your Bike from Riot Damage?

You can reduce the risk of riot-related damage to your bike by taking these preventive measures:

• Park in secure, guarded, or well-lit areas

• Avoid high-risk or disturbance-prone zones

• Use covered or gated parking spaces

• Prefer locations with CCTV surveillance

• Choose a comprehensive bike insurance policy with own-damage cover

Conclusion

Riot-related damage to a bike is covered only under Standalone Own Damage or Comprehensive Bike insurance policies, and not under third-party insurance. Having the right cover, filing an FIR, informing the insurer on time, and following the correct claim process are essential for smooth settlement. To stay financially protected against riots, vandalism, and civil unrest, bike owners should always opt for OD or comprehensive insurance.

Also Read:

• Role of Bike Inspection in Insurance Policy

• How Does Bike Insurance Work in India?

FAQs on Bike Insurance and Riot Damage