Best Two Wheeler Insurance Coverage for Hill Station Riders in India

What are the Common Challenges Faced by Hill Station Riders?

Hilly regions like Shimla, Manali, Ooty, Darjeeling, Mussoorie, Leh-Ladak, or Nainital are popular with bikers and tourists. But riding here is very different from cruising on highways or city streets. Some of the common risks include:

• Challenging Roads: Narrow, uneven, and slippery roads make handling difficult.
• Weather Conditions: Fog, heavy rainfall, and landslides are common problems in the mountains that often reduce visibility and become one of the causes for fatal accidents.
• Limited Mechanic Assistance: Breakdowns in remote areas or mountains can lead you in danger due to limited access to any garage or mechanic shop.
• Higher Repair Costs: Spare parts and servicing are costlier in hill regions due to logistics and accessibility.
• Higher Accident Risk: Sharp bends and sudden drops demand greater caution because even a small mistake can lead to significant accidents.

A basic third-party bike insurance policy (mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988) only covers damages to a third party. It won't cover damages to your own scooter or bike repairs. That's why riders in hill stations are strongly advised to buy a right two wheeler insurance with a combination of add-ons.

Best Type of Bike Insurance for Hill Stations

There are two primary types of two wheeler insurance in India:

1. Third-Party Bike Insurance

   Here are the key features of a third-party bike insurance policy:

   • Mandatory by law.
   • Covers damages to another person, vehicle, or property caused by the insured bike during a road accident.
   • It does not cover the damage to your own vehicle.
   • Helps in avoiding a bike insurance challan.

2. Comprehensive Bike Insurance

   Here are the key features of a comprehensive bike insurance policy:

   • Includes third-party liability coverage.
   • Covers damages to your own vehicle (known as Own Damage {OD} cover)
   • Protects against natural disasters (landslides, floods, storms) and man-made risks (theft, fire, vandalism)
   • It can be enhanced with add-on covers by paying an extra premium.

*Important Note: Comprehensive bike insurance and add-ons are the best choice for hilly terrains as they protect you against common and terrain-specific risks.

Essential Add-Ons Under Hill Station Bike Insurance

You can add extra benefits to your comprehensive plan to maximise your coverage. Here are the most essential add-ons for hilly terrain riders:

1. Zero Depreciation Cover
   • It ensures you get a full claim settlement without factoring in depreciation on parts.
   • Useful as hilly roads cause faster wear and tear.
2. Engine Protection Cover
   • It covers engine damage caused by waterlogging, oil leakage, or breakdown on steep slopes.
   • It is essential due to heavy rains and slush-filled roads.
3. Roadside Assistance (RSA) Cover
   • It provides emergency towing, minor repairs, fuel delivery, and fixing a flat or punctured tyre.
   • It is a lifesaver in remote areas where garages are scarce.
4. Personal Accident (PA) Cover
   • It provides mandatory coverage of up to ₹15 lakh to the policyholder.
   • Perfect for riders in hilly regions who face higher accident risks, making this cover critical.
5. Pillion Rider Cover
   • It extends personal accident cover to your pillion sitting beside you (co-rider) in the motorcycle.
6. Consumables Cover
   • It covers expenses for nuts, bolts, engine oils, and lubricants that wear out quickly on steep terrains. All these items are known as consumables.
7. Return-to-Invoice Cover
   • If your bike is stolen or completely damaged, which is known as a Total Loss (TL) situation, you get the full invoice value, not just the depreciated value.
8. NCB Protection Cover
   • It protects your No Claim Bonus even if you make a small claim.
   • This is an excellent choice for those riders who go on frequent trips to the mountains but also want to maintain their NCB.

Filing a Bike Insurance Claim in Hill Stations

If you meet with an accident or your scooter breaks down in a hill station, follow these steps:

• Stop and secure the vehicle and don't move it unless necessary.
• Take photos/videos of the scene, showing road conditions, weather, and damage.
• Inform your insurer immediately (within the claim deadline).
• File a bike insurance claim online using your provider's website or application.
• Opt for cashless garages to repair your bike in the authorised network garage, as many insurers have wide networks even in hill stations or remote areas.
• Submit documents such as RC, driving licence, and policy copy.

*Pro Tip: Always check if your insurer offers cashless repair facilities in hill station areas before buying a 2-wheeler insurance policy.

How to Save on Hill Station Bike Insurance Premiums?

Riding in hilly terrains means a slightly higher risk and hence higher premiums. However, you

can still reduce costs smartly:

• Install ARAI-approved anti-theft devices, as insurers may offer discounts.
• Renew bike insurance online on time to avoid penalties and policy lapses.
• Select the correct IDV (Insured Declared Value): Not too high (higher premium) or too low (lower claim amount).
• Avoid unnecessary add-ons and choose those that match your riding needs.
• Compare bike insurance online at Policybazaar.com, based on various factors such as CSR, cashless garage, premium, add-ons availability, etc., before finalising the deal.

Which Insurance Should You Buy While Riding a Bike in the Mountains?

Riding a scooter or bike in hill stations is exciting but risky. A simple skid or mechanical issue can leave you stranded for hours. That's why comprehensive two wheeler insurance with the right add-ons is not just recommended but necessary.

From zero-depreciation bike insurance cover to NCB protection cover, every add-on ensures you ride stress-free. Always compare policies, check claim settlement ratios, and choose an insurer with a vast cashless garage network near hill stations.