Getting two-wheeler insurance for a bike with a previous claim history can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. Whether you’ve filed a claim due to an accident, theft, or damage, insurers may view you as a higher-risk customer. However, with the right approach, you can still secure affordable and comprehensive coverage.
Insurance companies assess risk before offering coverage. A history of claims suggests that you might be more likely to file another one in the future. This makes insurers cautious, leading to:
- Higher premiums – You may pay more than someone with a clean record.
- Stricter terms – Some insurers may exclude certain types of coverage.
- Limited options – Not all providers may be willing to insure you.
Not all claims affect your insurance the same way. Here’s how different claims may influence your policy:
- At-fault accidents – These have the biggest impact, as they suggest risky riding behavior.
- Theft claims – If your bike was stolen, insurers may see you as a target for future thefts.
- Minor damage claims – Small claims (like scratches) may have less impact than major ones.
Not all insurers treat claim history the same. Some specialize in high-risk policies, while others may offer better rates if your claim was minor.
- Compare quotes from at least 3-4 insurers.
- Check online aggregators – Websites like Policybazaar (India) or Compare.com (U.S.) can help.
- Look for specialized insurers – Some companies focus on riders with past claims.
A higher deductible (the amount you pay before insurance kicks in) can lower your premium.
- Pros: Lower monthly costs.
- Cons: You pay more out of pocket if you file another claim.
If possible, avoid filing claims for minor damages. Over time, a clean record can help reduce your premiums.
- Take a defensive riding course – Some insurers offer discounts for certified riders.
- Follow traffic rules – Fewer violations mean fewer red flags for insurers.
Some policies allow you to protect your No-Claim Bonus even after a claim.
- How it works: You pay a small extra fee to retain your NCB after one claim.
- Best for: Riders who rarely file claims but had one recent incident.
If comprehensive insurance is too costly, third-party liability coverage is the legal minimum in many countries.
- Pros: Cheaper, meets legal requirements.
- Cons: Doesn’t cover your own bike’s damages.
Some insurers now offer policies based on how you ride, tracked via telematics or smartphone apps.
- Pay-as-you-ride: Premiums adjust based on mileage and riding habits.
- Safer riders pay less – If your data shows cautious riding, you could get discounts.
Insurers use AI to detect fraudulent claims, which helps keep premiums lower for honest riders.
- Faster processing – AI speeds up claim approvals.
- Reduced fraud – Fewer false claims mean better rates for everyone.
With increasing floods, storms, and wildfires, insurers are adjusting rates.
- Flood-prone areas may see higher premiums.
- Theft risks – Climate migration can lead to higher crime rates in some regions.
Some insurers reward riders of electric bikes (e-bikes) with lower premiums.
- Government incentives – In some countries, e-bike policies are subsidized.
- Lower risk – E-bikes may have fewer accident claims than high-speed petrol bikes.
Hiding past claims can lead to policy cancellation or claim rejection.
- Always be honest – Insurers can verify your claim history.
- Check local laws – Some regions have strict disclosure requirements.
Most insurers only look at claims from the last 3-5 years.
- Older claims matter less – If your last claim was long ago, you may get better rates now.
By following these steps, you can still get reliable two-wheeler insurance even with a previous claim. The key is to research, compare, and choose the best option for your needs.
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Author: Auto Direct Insurance
Source: Auto Direct Insurance
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