Buying a new bike or car is always exciting. But before you ride or drive off, it is important to think about insurance. Getting the right motor insurance policy can protect you financially in an accident.
Many people don’t realise that enhanced safety features on newer models of bikes and cars can lower their insurance premiums. This article will help you explore how advanced safety features like airbags, advanced braking systems, and other innovative safety features can make vehicles safer and cheaper to insure.
How advanced safety features help lower insurance premiums
Let us explore some of the top safety features and factors that can help car and bike owners lower their insurance premiums.
- Advanced braking systems
One of the most significant factors in calculating motor insurance policy costs is the likelihood of an accident. So, insurers are interested in vehicles with advanced braking technologies that help prevent collisions. Features like anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic stability control are becoming increasingly common.
ABS prevents wheels from locking up and helps riders/drivers maintain control during emergency braking situations. By optimising brake pressure, ABS can shorten stopping distances, minimising the chance of accidents for both bikes and cars. Insurance experts highlight that ABS considerably reduces motorcycle accident claims.
Electronic stability control helps prevent skids or loss of traction while turning. These high-tech systems use automated braking and throttle control to keep the car and bike stable and help the driver avoid dangerous situations. Auto experts highlight that electronic stability control lowers the risk of fatal single-vehicle crashes, reducing insurance claims.
- Traction control
Another advanced safety feature offered on newer vehicles is traction control technology. These systems work to avoid unnecessary wheel spin, helping riders and drivers accelerate safely on slippery surfaces. The sensors in these systems monitor wheel speeds and automatically reduce engine torque and/or brake individual wheels when loss of traction is detected.
Traction control provides extra stability for motorcycles while accelerating on turns and slippery roads. In cars, activating traction control can help prevent fishtailing or hydroplaning situations that can quickly turn out of control. This safety feature dramatically reduces the risk of accidents.
- Airbags
In the automotive world specially in car, airbags and seatbelts rank right at the top in terms of saving lives. Auto experts highlight that frontal airbags have saved many lives worldwide. Curtain airbags, too, lower fatality risk during side impacts.
With airbags now being offered in most new car models, insurance discounts aren’t always given. However, some insurers recognise the extra safety margins that accompany comprehensive airbag systems (front, side, and curtain). Curtain airbags protecting side windows and rear passengers can save significant insurance.
- Camera/sensor systems
Front and rearview cameras and blind spot monitoring systems rank among the top driver assistance features. These cameras and sensors continuously scan the surroundings and alert drivers against obstacles in close proximity. These advanced driver assistance systems take the guesswork out of safe lane changes, vehicle reversing, and parking.
Auto experts suggest that camera and sensor systems significantly affect vehicle safety. They highlight that these cameras help reduce backover accidents. Their side view assist and rear cross-traffic alerts help cut lane change crashes and backover accidents.
As adoption spreads, cameras and sensors will considerably impact insurance rates.
- Two-wheeler helmets
Wearing a helmet continues to be the single most effective way for people riding two-wheelers to avoid severe injury or death in the event of a crash. A significant number of states in India have already made helmet-wearing compulsory. Road safety experts highlight that the increased adoption of helmets results in a significant reduction in two-wheeler fatalities.
One can confirm with their insurance agent to check if the insurer offers helmet incentives.
6. Investing in safety upgrades
Sometimes, upgrading safety equipment beyond factory standard offerings can also earn insurance discounts. Adding extra lighting, mirrors, or reflectors to bikes helps improve visibility and accident avoidance. Anti-theft alarms, gear locks, and other devices can also help deter vehicle theft.
Conclusion
The latest vehicle safety technologies make vehicles safer. Innovative developments in the automotive industry, like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist, are finding increased adoption.
Top insurers in India encourage the adoption of advanced safety features in vehicles. You can buy Zurich Kotak Car Insurance and meet your insurance needs to protect your vehicle.