Know All About Insuring a Pillion Rider in India

Posted on: Feb 16, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Know All About Insuring a Pillion Rider in India

While riding a bike, most people would have often thought that an insurance policy covers the damage for the passengers. They are also known as pillion riders. According to the Indian Motors Act, having basic third-party insurance coverage is mandatory if you wish to ride a bike in India. Per the IRDAI rules, this bike insurance policy also covers the damages incurred by a pillion rider.

Does Third-party Insurance Cover Pillion Riders?

As per the latest Indian Motors Act, which was passed in the year 1988, a third party bike insurance covers the damages to both the passengers on the bike. It also covers the damages caused to the bike and any property. However, the amount you shall receive as compensation also depends on the type of insurance plan you have and the premium you have opted for.

The higher your premium cost for insurance, the more damages it shall cover. Even comprehensive bike insurance covers pillion riders.

Laws Related to Pillion Riders in India

While riding a vehicle, you must be well aware of all the rules and regulations of your country. This not only keeps you protected from the law but is also beneficial for your safety and security. Before going on the bike with a passenger, you must know a few laws related to pillion riders in India. These laws are as per the Indian Motors Act, passed in 1988.

• While riding a bike, only two people can sit at one time.

• The people on the bike, including the passenger, must ensure they follow proper safety protocols.

• The pillion rider needs to wear a helmet as well. This is also mentioned in the Indian Motors Act under section 129.

• Under section 147, the insurance policy also covers pillion riders. However, it was not included previously.

Features of Insurance for Pillion Rider

Let us take a deeper look at the features of pillion rider insurance.

In case of death - If a pillion rider passes away due to an unfortunate incident while on the two wheeler, as per the pillion rider insurance, the closest family member can claim the money. The maximum limit is five lakh rupees.

In case of an accident - If a pillion riders mets with an accident while on the two wheeler, they can claim for the medical expenses. The maximum limit for this is three lakh rupees.

In case of third party damage - In case of an accident, priority is given to the damages done to another person or their property. In this case, the pillion rider insurance value may be reduced.

In case of child pillion riders- In case you meet with an accident on a two wheeler, with a child under the age of fifteen, then only 50% of the insurance value can be claimed.

Benefits of Pillion Rider Coverage

If you are planning to take an additional pillion rider coverage, you will get several benefits. Here are some of the major pillion rider bike insurance benefits -

Claim compensation - With a basic third party two wheeler insurance, it is easier claim compensation. In case of an unforeseen event, if the pillion rider passes, this coverage helps their close family members claim their compensation. It is also easy to claim compensation in case of injuries.

For comprehensive bike insurance - If you have comprehensive two wheeler insurance, you can also get an additional pillion rider insurance cover. This cover shall help you stay secured legally and cover accidental damage, death and injuries. Thus, it shall not only help you save money but also keep you safe.

Key Precautions to be Followed While Riding with a Pillion Rider

A pillion rider insurance will help you greatly in case of an accident. However, staying safe while riding with a pillion rider is a must. Here are some precautions that you must follow while riding with a pillion rider-

Find out about your two wheeler capacity - Every two wheeler is made in a different way and structure. This means its weight-bearing capacity is also different. Before getting a pillion rider on your two wheeler, it is important to understand whether the two wheeler will be able to bear the weight. Further, other functions of the two wheeler, such as suspension, braking system, etc. also get affected with additional weight.

Understanding your riding ability - Before allowing a pillion rider to sit on your two wheeler, make sure that you are proficient in riding. You must be able to balance the additional weight and still ride comfortably. Moreover, you must also ask your pillion rider to sit comfortably with their weight shifted towards the centre.

Keep in mind while turning and applying brakes - While riding with a pillion rider, applying brakes and taking a turn are more tricky. Thus, you, as a rider, must keep in mind and practice well before riding on the streets.

Conclusion

Riding safely and with precautions is the first and foremost thing every rider must do. One must also be aware of the rules and regulations, and follow them closely. However, accidents and unforeseen events, can still happen. Thus, have a basic two wheeler insurance while riding in India, is compulsory. In case of an accident, both the rider and the pillion rider may get hurt. Thus, having a pillion rider insurance can help cover the injury costs. It may also help in case of accidental deaths. Moreover, it can also help safeguard you legally. If you have a third party two wheeler insurance, this is already covered. You can also take a pillion rider insurance coverage of a higher value to stay protected at all times.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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