Understanding What’s Included and Excluded in Bike Insurance

I can never forget the day I gifted myself a brand new bike. My happiness had no bounds looking at the beauty and perhaps the new member of our family. Zooming around the whole city and taking care of the bike like my own baby became a matter of pride as well as responsibility to me. But, failure to observe the policy document correctly, I botched to understand the things included and excluded in bike insurance.

So, with my firsthand experience what I found out was that, the coverage that I opted was merely a third party insurance policy. Which was indeed just a basic two wheeler policy where the coverage is guaranteed only to the third party in an event of accidental death, bodily injuries, permanent disability and damage to the property.

As per the Motor Vehicles Act, 1939, Third party insurance is mandatory for every vehicle running on the Indian roads. I then realized, that I should have opted for a complete Comprehensive bike insurance online that not only provides coverage to third party but also to damage done to your bike and self.

What is Included in your Comprehensive Policy?

It is very important for you to read the policy document thoroughly before giving your autograph on any insurance policy or buying any bike insurance online. Knowing what is included in your policy will only be an added advantage since it will keep you aware about your coverage.

Let’s find out what is included in a Comprehensive Insurance Policy-

Legal Third Party Liability

If you suffer any legal financial loss due to bodily injuries to the third party at times which may even lead to death, then you will be provided coverage. Also, any loss to third party property would be covered.

Natural Calamities or Events

These include loss due to floods, earthquakes, storms, landslides, fires, rain, cyclones, lightening, frost, explosions and self-ignitions.

Manmade Calamities

These includes any harm or damage caused to your bike due to human beings. It could be a mishap because of external factors like strikes, robbery, collision, malicious acts, etc. You may be surprised but this also covers any damage done to your bike during transit i.e. if your vehicle is getting transferred via road, air or water.

Personal Accident Coverage

You know that the chances of meeting with an accident are 80% high with your two wheeler. The effects of accidents can be even worst like death or permanent disabilities. Therefore, this cover includes compensation when you are riding a bike and you meet with an accident. Also damages caused while mounting or dismounting the bike is included. You can also be eligible for pillion cover in some cases.

What are the Exclusions

There are certain damages that are excluded arising due to –

• Damage by a person driving without a valid license
• Damage by a person driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Damage attributable to war, nuclear risks, mutiny
• General ageing, wear and tear, mechanical or electrical breakdown and failure
• Damages to tyres and tubes unless damaged during an accident
• Loss or damage to accessories by burglary housebreaking or robbery unless the bike is stolen at the same time
• Any claim arising out of any contractual liability
• Usage of your vehicle other than in accordance with restrictions as to use.
• Damage caused if your bike is ridden outside the geographical areas of India

These exclusions may differ from one insurance company to another. Therefore, make sure you read all the points mentioned in the policy document especially the exclusions. By doing so, you will be doubly sure of any confusion or litigation in the near future.