Safety Tips for Long Rides During Diwali

Posted on: Oct 23, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Safety Tips for Long Rides During Diwali

As the festival of lights approaches, it’s important to prioritise safety, especially if you're planning a long ride during this festive season. Whether you’re visiting family or enjoying the holiday spirit, Diwali brings unique challenges on the road, such as firecrackers, heavy traffic, and other distractions.

Alongside ensuring your two-wheeler insurance plan is in place, it’s vital to consider other road safety tips and essential add-on covers. Here’s a guide to help you enjoy your ride without worry.

Bike Insurance Tips During Diwali

Here are some tips to ensure your bike is properly insured for a safe and joyful celebration:

1. Check and Update Your Bike Insurance

Before starting a long ride this festive season, ensure that your vehicle insurance is valid and provides adequate coverage. Riding with expired insurance can lead to legal troubles and financial loss in case of an accident. If your policy is nearing expiry, make it a priority to renew your bike insurance this Diwali.

2. Invest in Comprehensive Insurance and Add-on Covers

A comprehensive bike insurance policy is the best way to protect your vehicle during Diwali. It not only covers third-party liabilities but also protects your bike from theft, fire, and accidental damages. To further enhance your protection, consider these essential add-on covers:

a. Zero Depreciation Cover

Over time, the value of your bike parts depreciates, and standard insurance policies take this into account, reducing the claim amount based on depreciation. However, with a zero-depreciation cover, you can claim the full cost of the damaged parts without any deductions for wear and tear. This is particularly beneficial during Diwali when the risk of damage from firecrackers or accidental scratches is higher.

For instance, if your bike’s plastic or rubber components are damaged due to a firecracker, the zero-depreciation rider ensures you won’t have to pay out of pocket for replacements. This makes it a must-have during the festive season.

b. Roadside Assistance (RSA) Cover

Festive traffic, long journeys, and congested roads increase the chances of breakdowns during Diwali. A roadside assistance cover offers immediate help if your bike breaks down due to mechanical issues, flat tyres, or even something as simple as running out of fuel. Whether you're stranded in the middle of nowhere or in a busy area, this add-on ensures you get support service quickly.

The RSA cover may also provide towing services if your bike requires major repairs, offering peace of mind and allowing you to enjoy the celebrations without stress. It’s an essential cover for riders who plan to travel extensively during the holiday season.

c. Engine Protection Cover

Your bike’s engine is one of the most critical components, and it can be expensive to repair it. The engine protection cover shields you from the cost of repairs due to engine damage caused by circumstances such as water ingress or oil leakage, both of which can be common during long-distance rides to areas with unpredictable weather conditions.

During Diwali, festive traffic and pollution may exacerbate the chances of engine problems, making this add-on crucial for those planning long trips or rides through areas prone to waterlogging. The engine protection cover protects your bike’s engine from unforeseen damage and gives you the confidence to ride without fear of costly repairs.

d. Personal Accident Cover for Pillion

Many riders travel with family or friends during Diwali. While most standard insurance policies cover the rider, it’s equally important to protect your passengers. The personal accident cover for the pillion offers financial protection for thepassenger in case of accidents, covering medical expenses, hospitalisation, or personal injuries.

Diwali festivities often involve navigating crowded streets and higher traffic, increasing the risk of accidents. With this add-on, you and your loved ones can enjoy the celebrations without worrying about what might happen in the event of an unfortunate incident.

e. Return to Invoice Cover

In case of a total loss (theft or irreparable damage) of your bike, a standard insurance policy only reimburses the current market value of your two-wheeler, which is usually lower than the original purchase price due to depreciation.

The return to invoice cover ensures that you are compensated for the full invoice value of your bike, including registration fees and road taxes, in case of total loss. This add-on is especially useful during Diwali, when the chances of bike theft may increase due to crowded events and unguarded parking areas. With the return to invoice cover, you won’t suffer financial loss if your two-wheeler is stolen or completely damaged.

f. Consumables Cover

Items such as engine oil, nuts, bolts, lubricants, and brake fluids often need replacement after an accident, but they are not covered under a standard bike insurance policy. The consumables cover ensures that the cost of these items is reimbursed in case of a claim.

Given the increased wear and tear your bike might experience during long Diwali rides, thisrider is invaluable in covering the often-overlooked consumables costs during repairs. This cover ensures that every part of your bike, down to the smallest component, is included in your claim, saving you from bearing unnecessary expenses.

g. Tyre Protection Cover

Diwali often means riding through streets filled with firecrackers, debris, and sharp objects, increasing the risk of tyre damage. The tyre protection cover ensures that any damage to your bike’s tyres, including punctures, bulges, or cuts, is covered.

This add-on provides financial support for repairing or replacing damaged tyres, which can otherwise be expensive to handle on your own. Having this cover is particularly useful during festival seasons when road conditions are less predictable, and tyre damage is more likely.

3. Stay Alert for Firecracker Hazards

Diwali is synonymous with firecrackers, and while they're beautiful to watch, they pose serious risks on the road. Follow these precautions to avoid accidents caused by stray firecrackers:

• Stick to main roads and avoid congested neighbourhoods where firecrackers are being used.

• Slow down and keep your distance from firecrackers to prevent sparks from hitting your bike.

• Carry a portable fire extinguisher to prevent major damage if your bike catches fire.

4. Night Riding Precautions During Diwali

Many people travel late during Diwali to avoid traffic or enjoy festivities, but night rides pose risks like reduced visibility and fatigue. Here are some safety tips:

• Maintain manageable speeds to stay in control, especially in poorly lit areas or near alleys where firecrackers are being burst.

• Check that your headlights are bright and fully functional before riding.

• Wear reflective gear and use decals to enhance visibility, especially at night during Diwali.

5. Protect Your Bike Against Fire Hazards

Firecrackers can cause accidental damage to your bike when parked or in motion. Take these steps to minimise the risks:

• Park in a garage or covered area to reduce the risk of firecracker-related accidents.

• Avoid using a bike cover, as it may catch fire from stray sparks; leaving your bike uncovered in a secure space is safer.

6. Handle Traffic and Crowds with Care

During Diwali, roads tend to be packed with vehicles, pedestrians, and roadside vendors, making it essential to exercise extra caution:

• Maintain a safe distance to react to sudden stops or distractions.

• Use your horn wisely to alert distracted pedestrians and drivers, but don’t overuse it.

• Stay calm in heavy traffic; plan your route and avoid peak hours to prevent accidents.

Conclusion

Diwali is a time of celebration, but safety should always come first. From staying cautious of firecrackers to buying the right bike insurance online, taking a few extra precautions can ensure your ride is safe and enjoyable.

Ensure your vehicle insurance is current, opt for essential add-on covers, and follow these simple tips to protect yourself and your vehicle.

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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