If you own an auto-rickshaw, having the right insurance is a
must. Whether you buy a new policy or renew an existing one, making the right
choices saves money and reduces stress. A well-chosen commercial vehicle
insurance policy gives financial protection and keeps you compliant with the
law.
In this guide, we cover the important do's and don'ts for
buying or renewing auto rickshaw insurance. This blog will provide you with
tips that will help you make informed decisions and get the best coverage.
Why Does Auto Rickshaw Insurance Matters?
Auto rickshaws are an important part of daily transport.
They offer passengers an affordable and convenient way to travel. But constant
road use comes with risks, including accidents, damages, and third-party
liabilities.
Auto rickshaw insurance plays an important role in
protecting both owners and drivers. It provides:
- Financial protection against accidents, theft, and damages
- Legal compliance as per motor vehicle laws
- Peace of mind for both drivers and passengers
Choosing the right policy keeps your vehicle safe and helps
your business run without problems.
6 Do's for Buying or Renewing Auto Rickshaw Insurance
Making smart decisions when buying or renewing auto rickshaw
insurance ensures better coverage, cost savings, and a hassle-free experience.
Follow these important do's to get the best commercial vehicle insurance policy for your needs.
1. Choose the Right Type of Insurance Policy
Not all auto-rickshaw insurance policies offer the same
benefits. Below is a breakdown of the different types:
|
Type of Insurance |
What it Covers |
|
Third-party Insurance |
Covers damages to third-party property or injury to a
third person. This cover is mandatory by law. |
|
Comprehensive Insurance |
Offers coverage for third-party liabilities and own
damage, theft, and natural calamities. |
|
Add-on covers |
Provide extra protection like personal accident cover,
engine protection, and roadside assistance. |
If you need wider coverage, choose a comprehensive
commercial vehicle insurance policy.
2. Compare Policies from Multiple Insurers
Insurance premiums and benefits differ across insurers.
Comparing different policies helps you find the best deal. Look for:
- Premium costs and coverage benefits
- Claim settlement ratio
- Customer reviews and service quality
Online insurance comparison platforms help you check
multiple options before choosing a policy.
3. Verify the Insurer's Claim Settlement Ratio
The claim settlement ratio (CSR) shows how often an insurer approves
claims. A high CSR means a smoother claim process.
- Check the insurer's CSR on their official website or IRDAI
reports
- Look for companies with a high CSR for better reliability
Choosing a trusted insurer ensures quick and easy claim
settlements when needed.
4. Opt for Add-ons That Provide Real Value
Basic insurance offers protection, but add-ons enhance
coverage. Some useful add-ons include:
- Personal Accident Cover: Protects the driver in case of
injuries
- Zero Depreciation Cover: Ensures full claim amount without
depreciation deductions
- Roadside Assistance: Offers towing, fuel delivery, and
emergency repairs
Select add-ons that suit your needs and avoid unnecessary
costs.
5. Ensure Policy Coverage Meets Your Needs
Before finalising a policy, check if it provides the ideal
coverage. Consider the following factors:
- Sufficient third-party liability cover
- Adequate own-damage protection
- Coverage for natural disasters and theft
A well-balanced commercial vehicle insurance policy protects
your auto rickshaw from different risks.
6. Renew Your Insurance on Time
If your policy expires, you may face legal issues and
financial losses. Renewing on time ensures continuous protection.
- Set reminders for renewal dates
- Check if your policy includes a grace period
- Renew early to avoid penalties and loss of benefits
A timely renewal helps you maintain a No Claim Bonus (NCB),
which lowers your premium costs.
5 Don'ts for Buying or Renewing Auto Rickshaw Insurance
Avoiding common mistakes when buying or renewing auto rickshaw insurance prevents claim issues and financial losses. Keep these
don'ts in mind for smooth coverage.
1. Don't Ignore Policy Exclusions
Every policy has exclusions, which are situations where the
insurer will not pay. Common exclusions include:
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Driving without a valid licence
- Damages due to illegal activities
Read the policy carefully to avoid surprises during claim
filing.
2. Don't Underinsure Your Vehicle to Save Premium Costs
A lower premium may seem attractive, but it usually means
less coverage. Underinsuring your auto rickshaw can result in:
- Higher out-of-pocket expenses during repairs
- Insufficient protection in case of major damage
Choose a policy that balances affordability and full
protection.
3. Don't Overlook the No Claim Bonus (NCB) Benefits
If you do not file any claims in a policy year, you qualify
for NCB discounts on renewal. The longer you go without claims, the bigger the
discount.
|
No Claim Years |
NCB Discount |
|
1 year |
20% |
|
2 years |
25% |
|
3 years |
35% |
|
4 years |
45% |
|
5 years or more |
50% |
Renewing your policy on time helps you keep NCB benefits,
which reduce your premium significantly.
4. Don't Delay Claim Filing in Case of an Accident
If your auto rickshaw meets with an accident, report the
claim immediately. Delays can cause:
- Claim rejection due to missed deadlines
- Increased financial burden for repairs
- Inform your insurer as soon as possible and submit all
required documents for a quick claim process.
5. Don't Provide Incorrect Information
When buying or renewing insurance, make sure all details are
correct. Wrong information can result in:
- Claim rejection
- Policy cancellation
- Legal issues
Double-check details such as:
- Vehicle registration number
- Owner's details
- Previous insurance history
Providing the right information ensures smooth policy
approval and claim settlements.
Choosing the right auto rickshaw insurance policy is
important for financial protection and legal compliance. Follow these do's and
don'ts to get the best commercial vehicle insurance plan for your needs.
Compare different policies, choose add-ons that can be beneficial, and renew on
time to maintain your benefits.
Check policy exclusions and provide accurate information.
The right policy gives you peace of mind and helps you run your business
smoothly without unexpected financial troubles.