Is Flood Damage Covered Under Two-Wheeler Insurance?
Flooding during the monsoons is a major problem that worries most vehicle owners in India. As a bike insurance policyholder, it is natural for you to Two-wheeler insurance wonder whether your insurer also covers you against vehicle damage due to heavy rains. After all, that kind of damage can result in losses that could potentially burn a hole in your savings. In this article, we will take a look at what you need to know about the coverage you can expect if you bike undergoes damage due to flooding.
Comprehensive bike insurance coverage for coverage against flooding
Two-wheeler insurance policies for bikes and scooters are broadly divided into two main categories – third-party insurance and comprehensive insurance. As suggested by the name, third-party insurance only covers you for legal and financial liabilities towards the third-party during an accident.
This means if you want own damages to be covered, you need to have comprehensive coverage. Comprehensive bike insurance covers you for third-party liabilities and own damages in an accident. It also covers you against a range of natural and manmade disasters that might lead to damages to your bike. So yes, a comprehensive bike insurance policy does cover you against damages due to flooding.
However, there’s more.
The coverage given for damages due to floods can vary between insurers. You would need to carefully read your policy document to check what is included and what damages may need to be paid for by you. Knowing the details during policy purchase will help you understand whether the coverage you have will suffice or whether you need to opt in for certain add-ons to enhance the protection on your bike.
Engine protection cover add-on
If your bike undergoes damage due to floods, one of the biggest expenses you will face is repairing your vehicle’s engine. Most motor insurance policies do not cover engine damage. You need to opt in for the engine protection cover if you want to receive compensation for engine repair.
Opting in for the engine protection cover is truly worth it. You get compensated for any damages to your bike engine’s spark plugs, pistons, and other parts that can cost a fortune to replace. You also get covered if you face hydrostatic lock.
If you live in a locality that frequently sees heavy flooding and water-logging, you would greatly benefit from the engine protection add-on. At a small increase in your two-wheeler insurance premium cost, you actually secure your finances by avoiding a situation in which you may have to pay for bike engine repair on your own. The costs of repairing your bike engine can go especially high if you have a sports bike or a high-end superbike.
Steps to follow in case of flood damage
If your bike has been submerged or seems to have suffered damage due to flooding, follow these steps:
- Contact your insurer immediately and ask them what steps you need to take to file a claim
- Get all your documents in order for the claim process
- Do not try to start your bike or move it on your own; wait for your insurer to send assistance to move the vehicle
- Meet with the inspection officer sent by the insurance company and understand the extent of damages
Once the entire process of surveying your bike and its damages is complete, your insurer will let you know the claim amount you will receive. Remember that the process of filing a claim for flood damage and the settlement amount can vary between insurers. Do make sure to contact your bike insurance provider for exact details.
We hope this article has helped you.
