17 November, 2006
The Indian Insurance Industry has demonstrated robust growth ever since the liberalisation of the sector. With privatisation of the sector insurance penetration has moved up to around 0.7 per cent over last six years. And now with the removal of tariff, a new chapter is set to commence for the insurance industry on January 1, 2007. We believe that, after licensing of private players in 2000-01, de-tariffing is the next big event in the Indian non-life insurance space. Detariffing has the potential to transform and liberalise the insurance market further.
Need to Detariff
The removal of tariff is a natural way for any market to develop and grow. Tariffs have been done away with in most markets around the world and India is today the only country where such a high proportion of the market is still under Government control.
A tariffed market robs the market of the fundamental component of liberalisation i.e. free market and open competition. As a result premium rates have remained artificially high for fire insurance while the motor portfolio is not adequately priced leading to huge losses for insurers.
While the need for dismantling of tariffs has been acknowledged and supported by all stakeholders, IRDA has chosen to tread cautiously here. It has waited a full six years after liberalisation to open up the market as it feels the players now have the maturity and capacity. Also it has chosen to open up in stages initially it will only be free pricing with existing policy terms and conditions. Flexi-wordings are being proposed for a year later.
Implications of Detariffing
Detariffing will definitely lead to the Indian market achieving global standards in underwriting and risk management besides encouraging innovation.
We expect two prominent trends in the tariff-free market. Firstly, there will be a transition from administered pricing to risk based pricing. We would therefore see increased participation from customers in rating a risk. As in the developed markets, the information provided by the customer will play a key role in deciding the pricing. In the case of motor insurance what this means is that the premium rating will be based on the features of the vehicle and the person driving it. A combination of a host of factors including the make, model, location, driver's age & experience, security features of the car and usage will all have an impact on the final premium that the customer will pay.
Another major development will be in 'Product Differentiation', which will probably represent the second phase of the detariffing process. Insurers will be able to provide products packaged to meet a customer's unique requirements, and price them depending on customer profile and product features.
Customer benefits
Detariffing will result in higher insurance penetration in the country. Customer will stand to benefit from a much wider choice of products. It would be convenient for them to get a tailor-made product very specific to their requirements and based on the actual risks that customers face, rather than any price set by government. But it also places huge demands on insurance companies to listen closely to customers and underwrite risks well. We are convinced that we have the skills and the underwriting discipline to rise to this challenge.
In a tariff market, customers who invest in risk management practices and have a healthy historical loss record are often at a disadvantage in view of the tariff which gives a uniform rate for each risk regardless of quality of risk management within an occupancy.
Risk management will get a boost if there is sufficient reduction in premium for investing in controls such as fire protection systems. In international markets, pricing models ensure that a customer is not only saved from a disaster but factor in a payback period for investments in risk management mechanisms and processes by way of premium discounts.
Personal insurance customers will benefit by the removal of tariff. For example, in the motor segment in a tariff free market, most customers are likely to gain. In the corporate segment, health and marine premiums would go up, but fire premiums would come down. More importantly, insurers will now be able to develop and provide pertinent, world class and customised products to suit the needs of the corporate customer.
Way Ahead
The stage is set to witness international best practices in risk assessment and underwriting in the coming years.
There are apprehensions that, at least initially, premium (topline) growth would dominate at the cost of viability or risk rating which can affect solvency margins. Insurance rating being a function of the probability theory would require the insurers to keep themselves equipped with sufficient data before taking the plunge. Each proposal will therefore need to be studied and rated on sound technical grounds. Internal monitoring mechanisms would need to become more stringent and actuaries may soon turn into underwriters.
In a de-tariffed market, both the insurer as well as the customer would need the services of a professional broker. The brokers would not merely participate in the price war but would need to make quality submissions to the insurers conveying all the material and non-material aspects of the risk to be covered. The broker will play the role of a consultant in the true sense with risk management responsibilities.
As the Indian Insurance Industry readies for the free market environment, its focus on providing value-added features, good quality service will also increase considerably. I expect better risk management practices will be put in place. More players and specialist mono-lines companies will emerge. At the same time well-managed insurance companies will grow from strength to strength based on their risk & compliance framework. The current focus on revenue will be replaced by value.
Thus, tariff abolishment will benefit Indian customers and the economy in more than one way. The industry's technical resources will improve, capital will be augmented to offset the possible pressure on solvency margins due to price reductions and job creation will follow as insurers are able to expand their offering.
Knowing that you are protected financially in case of an accident can reduce stress and allow you to focus on safe driving practices
Car insurance provides crucial financial protection in the event of an accident. Without insurance, you could be liable for paying for the damages and medical expenses out of your pocket
Driving without insurance can lead to severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, or even legal action
Liability coverage in car insurance helps protect you from the financial repercussions of such incidents
Comprehensive insurance coverage can protect you against the loss of your vehicle due to theft or damages caused by vandals.
A car is a significant investment, and having insurance ensures that you protect this asset from unexpected damages and financial losses.
Car insurance is your safety net in accidents and collisions. It covers damages and losses, ensuring you don’t bear the financial burden alone
Oops, accidents happen! But don’t worry, car insurance has your back if your car causes damages to others vehicles or property. Drive stress-free!
Stay worry-free! If your car faces accidental fire damage, insurance has your back. Get quick support and coverage to get back on the road!
No need to stress about natural calamities! With insurance, your car is protected from flood, cyclone, and other damages.
Your well-being matters! In case of an accident-causing death or disability, car insurance offers support, ensuring you and your loved ones are taken care of.
Worry less about car theft! Insurance has you covered if your car gets stolen. Get peace of mind knowing you won’t be left stranded.
Any type of damage that your car has suffered before buying a policy from us will be not covered.
Please note that driving drunk or without a valid license will not be covered. Drive responsibly to stay covered and safe on the road.
Ensure you have all the required documents while driving. Car damage incurred without such documents, like a valid driving license, won’t be covered.
Certain situations are covered through add-ons. If not purchased, these situations won’t be covered. Consider add-ons for comprehensive protection.
You’ve got options here, folks!
This basic plan covers third-party liabilities. Rates are determined by the cubic capacity of the engine, with higher capacity meaning a higher premium.
This all-in-one plan covers damage, theft, and personal accidents. The premium depends on factors like the Insured Declared Value, car age, make, model, area of registration, add-ons, and discounts.
We Prioritize service and satisfaction and always try to give our best for all our customers.
Step 1
Contact us at 1800-568-9999 or log in to your profile with the help of your mobile number to register a claim.
Step 2
Your Car Will be Inspected. Enter necessary details and upload all claim-related documents (as required).
Step 3
Our team will assess carefully and Approve Your Claim.
Renewing online is the modern way to go! It’s convenient, clear, and cost-effective. You get to explore multiple policies, compare prices, and find the perfect one for your needs - all from the comfort of your couch!
So, there you have it - a quirky and friendly guide to renewing your car insurance policy hassle-free! Remember, keeping your ride protected is like having a trusty sidekick on all your journeys. Stay insured, stay safe, and enjoy the open road with confidence!
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1. Declaration of Accuracy and Liability:
I/We, the proposer(s) or policyholder(s), hereby declare that the statements and particulars given in this Proposal form are complete, true, and accurate. I/We agree that Royal Sundaram Insurance Company will not be liable under the insurance contract if it is found that any of my/our statements or particulars or declarations in this proposal form or other documents are incorrect, misleading, or fraudulent in any respect, on any matter related to the grant of a cover or submission of a claim in the future.
2. Premium Payment:
I declare that the premium paid under this transaction to Royal Sundaram Insurance Company Limited is being paid by me as the proposer/policyholder through a bank account or a Credit/Debit Card or a Prepaid Payment Instrument or a UPI wallet (Wallet), held by me in my name as a primary holder (referred to as “source account”). I confirm that it is not a third-party payment made by any other person on my behalf. I understand that in the event of policy cancellation, the refund of premium as per policy terms and conditions may be credited back to such source account, and such electronic transfer will constitute full and final discharge of the Company’s obligation.
3. No Claims Bonus (NCB) Declaration:
I/We declare that the rate of NCB claimed by me/us is correct and that no claim has arisen in the expiring policy period (copy of the policy enclosed). I/We further undertake that if this declaration is found incorrect, all benefits under the policy in respect of Section I of the Policy will stand forfeited.
4. Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate:
I hereby affirmatively warrant that the Assured named herein/owner of the vehicle insured holds a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate on the date of commencement of the Policy, and the same has been shown to the agent/authorized person of the intermediary. I further undertake to renew and maintain a valid and effective PUC Certificate during the duration of the Policy period. If the PUC certificate is not found valid on the date of loss, I understand that the Company reserves the right to cancel the policy.
5. Break in Insurance and Vehicle Inspection:
I/We agree that in case of a Break in Insurance, the policy would be issued subject to acceptance of risk after evaluation of the Vehicle Inspection report. Own Damage cover (Section – I) would not commence unless the satisfactory Vehicle Inspection report has been received by us. If the Company does not receive the Vehicle Inspection report or the report is adverse, the Company, at its discretion, will cancel the Policy as per the Motor Tariff.
6. Notification of Changes:
I/We further declare that I/we will notify in writing any change in the details so furnished hereinabove occurring after the proposal has been submitted but before communication of the risk acceptance by the Company. This includes changes in occupation or general health of the insured individuals.
7. Authorization and Sharing of Information:
I/We authorize the Company to share information pertaining to my proposal, including medical records, for the sole purpose of proposal underwriting and/or claims settlement and with any Governmental and/or Regulatory authority.
8. Consent for Communication:
By submitting my contact number and email ID, I authorize Royal Sundaram Insurance Company Limited to call, send SMS, messages over internet-based messaging applications like WhatsApp, and email to offer me information and services for the product(s) I have opted for as well as other products/services offered by Royal Sundaram Insurance Company Limited. Please note that such authorization will be over and above any registration of the contact number on TRAI’s NDNC registry.
9. Income Declaration:
This policy has been issued based on my declaration of Gross Annual Income, and the Base Sum Insured chosen is not more than 10 times of such Gross Annual Income. In the event the declaration is found to be incorrect/wrong and/or non-submission of income proof to justify this declaration, it may result in the inadmissibility of a claim and/or cancellation of the policy. I confirm that the Gross Annual Income of the family in this proposal is true and correct and undertake to submit relevant income proof(s) in the event of a claim in this regard.
10. Occupational Exclusions:
I confirm that the insured member(s) under this Policy do not work in Nuclear power plants, underground mines, explosives, hazardous material (e.g., fertilizers, asbestos fiber, toxic gases, toxic chemicals, pesticides, etc.). Furthermore, the insured member(s) do not work in underground mines, explosive magazines, or electrical installations with high tension supply, or are jockeys, circus personnel, engaged in racing on wheels or horseback, big game hunting, mountaineering, winter sports, skiing, ice hockey, river rafting, polo, or similar activities or occupations.
11. Declaration as Authorized Proposer:
I declare that all the information I have provided is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge, and I am authorized to propose on behalf of my family.
12. Underwriting Policy and Premium Payment:
I declare that the premium paid under this transaction to Royal Sundaram Insurance Company Limited is being paid by me as the proposer/policyholder through a bank account or a Credit/Debit Card or a Prepaid Payment Instrument or a UPI wallet (Wallet), held by me in my name as a primary holder (referred to as “source account”). I confirm that it is not a third-party payment made by any other person on my behalf. I understand that in the event of policy cancellation, the refund of premium as per policy terms and conditions may be credited back to such source account, and such electronic transfer will constitute full and final discharge of the Company’s obligation.
13. Authorization for Medical Information:
I declare that I consent to the company seeking medical information from any doctor or hospital who/which at any time has attended on the person to be insured/proposer or from any past or present employer concerning anything that affects the physical or mental health of the person to be insured/proposer. I also authorize the company to seek information from any insurer to whom an application for insurance on the person to be insured/proposer has been made for the purpose of underwriting the proposal and/or claim settlement.
14. Information Sharing:
I hereby permit/authorize Royal Sundaram Insurance Company Limited to collect, store, communicate, and process information relating to the policy(ies) and all transactions related therewith, including the sharing and disclosing the public authorities of any confidential information as required by law. I also authorize Royal Sundaram Insurance Company Limited to send me information in relation to the Policy and Royal Sundaram Insurance products & services, irrespective of whether I am registered with the National Customer Preference Register (NCPR) (formerly the National Do Not Call Registry) or not.
15. Consent for Electronic Communication:
To protect the environment and save paper, I consent to Royal Sundaram contacting me by email or phone instead of in physical form and to share all documents, updates, and alerts electronically.
16. Liability Commencement:
The Company's liability does not begin until the full premium has been collected by the Company, and the acceptance of the proposal has been formally intimated to the insured.
17. General Exclusions:
The Company shall not be liable under this Policy in respect of any accidental loss or damage and/or liability caused, sustained, or incurred outside the geographical area; any claim arising out of any contractual liability; any accidental loss, damage, and/or liability caused, sustained, or incurred whilst the vehicle insured herein is being used otherwise than in accordance with the Limitations as to Use or being driven by or is for the purpose of being driven by him/her in the charge of any person other than a Driver as stated in the Driver’s Clause; any accidental loss or damage to any property whatsoever or any loss or expense whatsoever resulting or arising therefrom or any consequential loss; any liability of whatsoever nature directly or indirectly caused by or contributed to by or arising from ionizing radiations or contamination by radioactivity from any nuclear fuel or from any nuclear waste from the combustion of nuclear fuel. For the purposes of this exception, combustion shall include any self-sustaining process of nuclear fission; any accidental loss damage or liability directly or indirectly caused by or contributed to by or arising from nuclear weapons material; any accidental loss or damage and/or liability directly or indirectly or proximately or remotely occasioned by or contributed to by or traceable to or arising out of or in connection with war, invasion, the act of foreign enemies, hostilities or warlike operations (whether before or after the declaration of war), civil war, mutiny rebellion, military or usurped power, or by any direct or indirect consequences of any of the said occurrences, and in the event of any claim hereunder, the Insured shall prove that the accidental loss, damage, and/or liability arose independently of and was in no way connected with or occasioned by or contributed to by or traceable to any of the said occurrences or any consequences thereof, and in default of such proof, the Company shall not be liable to make any payment in respect of such a claim.
18. Authorization as Proposer and Information Accuracy:
I/We hereby declare, on my behalf and on behalf of all persons proposed to be insured, that the above statements, answers, and/or particulars given by me are true, complete, and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I/We am/are authorized to propose on behalf of these other persons. I understand that the information provided by me will form the basis of the insurance policy and is subject to the Board-approved underwriting policy of the insurance company. The policy will come into force only after full receipt of the premium chargeable.
I/We undertake that the applicable loadings have been informed and understood by me. I further declare that I/We will notify in writing any change occurring in the occupation or general health of the life to be insured/proposer after the proposal has been submitted but before communication of the risk acceptance by the company.
I/We declare and consent to the company seeking medical information from any doctor or hospital who at any time has attended on the life to be insured/proposer or from any past or present employer concerning anything that affects the physical or mental health of the life to be assured/proposer. I also authorize the company to seek information from any insurance company to which an application for insurance on the life to be assured/proposer has been made for the purpose of underwriting the proposal and/or claim settlement.
Additionally, I/We authorize the company to share information pertaining to my proposal, including medical records, for the sole purpose of proposal underwriting and/or claims settlement, with any Governmental and/or Regulatory authority.
Please refer to the policy documents for complete details of exclusions, inclusions, and terms and conditions.
For any further information or clarification, please feel free to contact Royal Sundaram Insurance at the following contact details:
Royal Sundaram General Insurance Co. Limited
Corporate Office Address :
Vishranthi Melaram Towers, No.2/319 , Rajiv Gandhi Salai (OMR), Karapakkam , Chennai - 600097.
Telephone : 91-44-7117 7117
Fax : 044 – 7117 7140