Buying a bike is an epoch in anyone’s life. For most people in India, a two-wheeler is usually the first vehicle one owns before moving on to buying cars and other types of four-wheelers. Many families use a two-wheeler to run quick errands, while the four-wheeler is usually reserved for office commute and family outings. Despite being a handy vehicle, especially during traffic congestions, a bike is more prone to accidents compared to a car. Hence, it is important to have third party bike insurance to ensure you, your family and the third party are completely covered in case of a mishap.
What is third-party insurance for two-wheelers?
As per Indian laws, a third-party insurance cover for two-wheelers is mandatory. The insurance is intended to offer protection against damages claimed by a third party on account of bodily damages or death due to an accident involving your two-wheeler. Therefore, it is important to take
long term bike insurance for yourself as well as for third parties.
Steps for claiming third party bike insurance
Let there be no need for you to claim the insurance cover ever, but it is always good to know the third-party two-wheeler claim process well in advance, rather than having to run from pillar to post during a crisis. Thorough knowledge of how to apply for and claim insurance against damages to a two-wheeler can offer you much-needed peace of mind at a crucial and extremely stressful time. Here’s all it takes to complete your
third party two-wheeler claim process.
1.At the scene of the accident, make a note of the following details. These are to be provided to your insurer in writing.
a.The time, date and exact location of the accident
b.The details of the person/persons who have been injured or killed due to the accident
c.The policy number of your insurance cover and its validity period
d.Name and other details of the driver and the driving licence
e.Name and other details of the owner of the vehicle, if different from the driver
2.At the spot of the accident, try to amass photographic evidence of the accident including injuries and damages to other vehicles. It can prove useful in the future.
3.Keep detailed notes of any correspondence or conversations with the third party as well as the insurer for future reference to the claim. Also, preserve all related documents including bills paid to the insurer as you never know when they may prove useful.
4.Register an FIR on the spot or as soon as possible and provide as many details as possible of the accident. Moreover, you should also register a case with the tribunal court in the area where the accident took place. Alternatively, the case can be filed either at the local court where you or the affected third party resides. It is important to note, however, that settling claims for third-party bike insurance is not under the jurisdiction of civil courts and these cases can be decided only at tribunal courts.
Common third-party insurance claim mistakes to be avoided
Here are few common mistakes to be avoided when claiming third-party insurance for your bike:
1.Do not, in any circumstance, run away from the scene of the accident. All the vehicles involved in the accident should be left at the spot until an inspector has had a chance to survey the accident site. It is also important to arrange for medical assistance to injured victims.
2.Do not avoid contacting the local police authority or filing an FIR. Avoiding this step can seriously affect the validity of your insurance claim.
3.Do not try and get an impromptu understanding or settlement with the third party without the involvement of the police. This can lead you to unnecessary legal liabilities.
4.Make sure that you state all facts of the matter clearly and concisely. Do not omit any details when conversing with the police or insurer. Maintain your calm and not get aggressive.
5.Do not delay the submission of your claim as this may prove to be detrimental.
6.Do not omit any details or provide any false information while submitting your claim. This can result in your claim being rejected.
7.Never ride your bike or another two-wheeler under the influence of alcohol or drugs as this may affect your claim validity.
8.Do not indulge in any illegal activities such as utilising private vehicles for commercial use as such things can negatively impact your claim.
9.Never, under any circumstance, sign off on any release to your insurer for the third-party claim until and unless you have briefed your lawyer and have been advised on the same.