How to Find Lost Two-Wheeler Insurance Documents?

Insurance policy documents are among the important documents that we normally keep in a safe location. Losing some of your important documents is not very common, but sometimes it does happen. There could be a situation where you misplace your two-wheeler insurance policy document. You’ve made every attempt to find it, searched every nook and cranny of your house, but to no avail. Your two-wheeler insurance policy is an important document, without which you would be at risk while riding your two-wheeler.

How important are your bike insurance documents?

In India, possessing valid bike insurance is a legal requirement under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Riding without it can lead to legal consequences, including fines and penalties. Beyond legal compliance, bike insurance documents serve several critical purposes:

• Proof of insurance: These documents confirm that your vehicle is insured, providing peace of mind and legal protection.
• Claims processing: In the unfortunate event of an accident or theft, the insurance papers are necessary to file a claim and receive compensation.
• Resale transactions: When selling your two-wheeler, potential buyers often request insurance documents to verify the vehicle's history and coverage.
• Traffic stops: During routine checks, traffic authorities may ask for your insurance papers. Not having them can result in fines or other legal issues.

How to get duplicate bike insurance documents offline?

The last and only solution for you now is to request your insurance company to issue a duplicate insurance policy document. But getting a duplicate policy document is not easy. There are certain pre-requisites that you need to perform before you can make an application for a duplicate policy document.

The prerequisites are:

• Filing a first information report (FIR) with the police

Not all insurance companies ask for a copy of an FIR filed with the police for your lost two-wheeler policy document. But it will certainly help in your seeking a duplicate two-wheeler insurance policy document.

• Issue an advertisement in a newspaper

You must publish an advertisement in a newspaper circulated in the region where the two-wheeler insurance policy document is lost. The advertisement will basically announce that you have lost your two-wheeler policy document and request that if someone finds the same, it be delivered or handed over to you. The advertisement will contain your address and/or your contact details.

• Execute an indemnity bond

An indemnity bond is the last of the documents you will need for submitting to your for submitting to your motor insurance company to apply for a duplicate insurance policy document. The indemnity bond should be executed in favour of your insurance company and also must be notarised. The indemnity bond has to be executed on a non-judicial stamp paper.

• Write an application to the insurer

After getting hold of these three documents, you are now ready to apply for a duplicate of your two-wheeler insurance policy. Write an application addressed to your general insurance company requesting them to issue you a duplicate two-wheeler insurance policy.

Please ensure you write the correct policyholder name, policy number, date of issuance, and type of insurance cover opted in the application. Attach the FIR, a copy of the advertisement issued in a newspaper, and the indemnity bond with the application. Remember to keep copies of the application and the documents safe with you for future reference.

If the two-wheeler insurance policy is in a joint name, please remember the application will have to be signed by both the joint policyholders.

• Pay applicable fees

There might be a nominal fee associated with issuing duplicate documents. Ensure you inquire about any charges and make the necessary payment.

How to get duplicate bike insurance documents online?

With the advent of digital services, many insurance companies offer the convenience of obtaining duplicate insurance documents online. Here's how you can do it:

1. Visit the official website: Go to your insurance provider's website and navigate to the customer service or policy management section.
2. Log in to your account: Use your registered credentials to access your account. If you haven't registered yet, you'll need to create an account using your policy details and personal information.
3. Request duplicate documents: Once logged in, look for the option to request duplicate policy documents. Depending on the insurer, this might be labelled "Download Policy," "Duplicate Policy," or "Policy Copy."
4. Verify your identity: You may be required to verify your identity through an OTP sent to your registered mobile number or email.
5. Download or receive via email: After verification, you can download the duplicate policy document directly from the website. Alternatively, some insurers may email the document to your registered email address.

Tips to follow if you have lost bike insurance documents

Losing your bike insurance documents can be unsettling, but following these tips can help mitigate potential issues:

• Check for digital copies – Look for an email or soft copy of your policy sent by your insurance company.
• Contact your insurance provider – Inform your insurer about the lost documents and request a duplicate copy.
• Download from the insurance website – Log in to the insurer’s website or app to download a copy of your policy.
• Use the DigiLocker app – If your policy is linked to DigiLocker, you can retrieve a legally valid digital copy.

FAQs

1. What should I do immediately after realising I've lost my two-wheeler insurance documents?

Check for policy documents in the email sent to you by the insurer during the insurance purchase. Contact the insurance provider to request a hard copy if you can't find it. You can also download a digital insurance copy from the insurer’s website or app.

2. Can I apply for duplicate insurance documents online?

Yes, many insurance companies offer online services where you can request duplicate documents through their official website or mobile app.

3. What information is required to request duplicate insurance documents?

You will need to provide details such as your policy number, vehicle registration number, and personal identification.

4. How long does it take to receive the duplicate documents?

The processing time varies by insurer. Online requests are typically processed faster, often within a few hours to a couple of days, while the offline method may take longer.

5. Can digital copies of insurance documents serve as valid proof?

Yes, digital copies stored in government-approved apps like DigiLocker or mParivahan are considered valid proof of insurance and can be presented during traffic inspections.

6. What preventive measures can I take to avoid losing my insurance documents?

Store digital copies in secure cloud storage or government-approved digital lockers, and keep physical copies in a safe place.

Conclusion

Losing your bike insurance documents can be inconvenient. However, by promptly informing your insurer and following the necessary steps, you can obtain a duplicate copy without much hassle. Embracing digital solutions and maintaining organised records can help prevent such issues.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.