Summary of this article
Fog-driven road accidents spike in North India during winter months
Comprehensive motor insurance covers own damage and third-party liability
Add-ons like Zero Dep, RTI, and RSA enhance winter driving protection
Claims require prompt intimation, evidence, and compliance to avoid rejection
Temperatures have plunged across North India, and a thick blanket of fog has settled in. On many stretches, drivers are struggling with almost no visibility. Recent reports suggest that the dense mist has already contributed to a spate of vehicle pile-ups and minor crashes. Winter months, especially in North India, always see a sharp rise in accidents caused by dense fog, low visibility, and slippery road surfaces.
Why Motor Insurance Is Key During The Foggy Winters
“The most common incidents include rear-end collisions where drivers are unable to judge sudden braking, multi-vehicle pile-ups on highways, and single-vehicle crashes where cars skid off the road or hit dividers due to poor visibility,” says Paras Pasricha, head, motor insurance, Policybazaar.
Motorcyclists and scooter riders face a higher risk in dense fog, not only because visibility drops but also because wet roads make it easier to skid or topple. On the insurance side, these incidents typically fall within the scope of a comprehensive motor policy. The own-damage section of the policy pays for repairs to the insured vehicle, while third-party insurance covers injury or damage caused to others.
What Is Covered
Insurers assess these claims like any other accidental damage. ‘The policyholder is expected to intimate the insurer immediately, share photographs of the damaged vehicle and accident spot, and file an FIR in cases involving third-party damage, injuries, or major losses. It’s important to note that prior damages or negligence, such as driving without a valid license, can lead to rejection,” Pasricha.
Opt For Add-on Covers
Customers can opt for various add-on covers in a motor insurance policy by paying an additional premium. “Some important add-ons that are especially helpful during winters or while driving in foggy conditions include:
Zero Depreciation Cover
Covers the depreciation cost on car parts during repairs arising out of an accident,” says Sameer Samdani, director, Insurance Brokers Association of India (IBAI).
Return To Invoice (RTI)
“Covers the full invoice value of the car in case of a total loss or constructive total loss (when the cost of repairs exceeds 70 per cent of the insured declared value). Premiums are approximately Rs 2500 for a 10 lakh car,” says Samdani.
Roadside Assistance (RSA)
Provides immediate on-the-spot assistance, including towing the vehicle to the nearest garage and other emergency support services. Premiums are generally in the range of Rs 500-1000.
