Updated on 12 Dec 2025
When you buy a bike in India, having insurance is not just important but also a legal rule. Most people opt for third-party insurance because it is the basic plan required by law and is offered at a low cost. But many bike owners wonder if this cover is enough for them.
Third-party insurance only pays for the damage or injury caused to another person, not your own bike. This makes it essential to understand the limitations of third-party coverage and determine whether you require a more comprehensive policy for enhanced safety and financial protection.
This blog explains to you whether only third-party insurance is enough for the bike or if you have to take comprehensive bike insurance.
What is third-party bike insurance?
In India, it is mandatory to have third-party insurance to ride your bike on public roads. According to the law, you are not permitted to ride your two-wheeler unless it is covered by this policy. Third-party insurance protects you financially against legal liabilities arising from harm or damage caused to a third-party person or property, respectively. It also covers legal fees if the victim files a lawsuit against you.
Is third-party insurance enough for a bike?
Third-party insurance does not cover damage to the insured bike. If your bike is involved in a road accident and is severely damaged, third-party insurance will not cover the repair costs. The scope of coverage also excludes situations in which your bike is stolen or damaged as a result of a natural or manmade disaster.
Therefore, it is recommended to have either comprehensive bike insurance or to supplement third-party coverage with a standalone own-damage policy. You should also think about adding appropriate riders to broaden the scope of coverage.
Is the premium of a third-party insurance policy high?
No, it is, in fact, the most affordable policy available in the market. The price of third-party liability insurance is fixed by the Insurance Regulatory Department of India (IRDAI). It is decided based on the engine displacement size.
Let's see how much each model costs.
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Bike cubic capacity
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Cost
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Below 75 cc
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Rs 538
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Between 75 cc to 150 cc
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Rs 714
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Between 150 cc to 350 cc
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Rs 1366
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Above 350 cc
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Rs 2804
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Coverage provided under third-party bike insurance
Third-party bike insurance covers the damage or loss you may cause to another person while riding your bike. This includes paying for injuries to someone else, damage to their vehicle or harm to their property. It does not cover your own bike’s damage, but it protects you from heavy financial and legal problems if an accident happens.
Having third-party insurance is also mandatory by law in India; therefore, every bike owner is required to have it. This way, you stay safe from fines and ensure that any accidental harm caused to others is properly taken care of by the insurance company.
Limitations of third-party bike insurance
Third-party bike insurance only covers damage or injury caused to another person, their vehicle or property in an accident. It does not pay for the repair of your own bike or cover your medical expenses if you get hurt. This means if anything happens to your bike or damage is caused by a natural disaster, this insurance will not cover the repair cost or any other expense.
How to purchase third-party insurance coverage?
Third-party insurance can be purchased both online and offline. If you purchase the policy online, the insurer will request KYC documents, vehicle information, and a few other details. The offline process is time-consuming. You will have to visit the branch or the insurance agent's office to get the coverage.
Conclusion
Third-party insurance is the minimum requirement for a bike, as it protects against legal liabilities and covers damages caused to others or their property. It won’t cover your hospital expenses or the amount spent to repair your bike. If you want more protection, choosing a comprehensive insurance plan is a better option. While third-party insurance is cheaper and mandatory by law, comprehensive insurance gives you peace of mind.
Make the right choice with expert help by filling out the form on this page, and learn about the insurance that fits your needs.
FAQs
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Should I buy the third-party insurance?
In India, you must have third-party insurance. It will cover the damage or any injury caused to the other person by your vehicle.
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Does third-party insurance cover my vehicle damage expense?
No, it won’t cover your vehicle damage or repair costs. It only covers the losses caused to others in an accident.
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Can only third-party insurance be bought?
Yes, you can have third-party insurance, but it is always better to have insurance for the protection of your bike as well.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. 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.