Personal Accident Cover in Bike Insurance: Benefits & Coverage

Updated on 6 Jan 2026

In India, riding and owning a two-wheeler provides a sense of freedom and convenience.  However, it also comes with certain risks. Each year, many bike riders are involved in road accidents that might lead to disabilities, injuries and even fatalities. In such situations, the financial strain on the rider’s family can become quite severe.

This is where the Personal Accident (PA) cover under the two wheeler insurance makes a difference. It works as a financial safety net for the rider and their family, and also helps them manage expenses linked to loss of income, medical treatment and other unforeseen costs that might take place after an accident. In this blog, you will gain insights into what personal accident cover for bikes is, why it’s important, and how you can purchase and claim it to ensure proper protection for you and your loved ones.

What is personal accident cover?

A personal accident cover is a two-wheeler insurance cover that provides compensation to the owner of the vehicle or dependents in case of accidental injury or death. Many insurers provide personal accident cover for two-wheelers as an add-on cover to their bike insurance policy. The cover is meant to enhance protection in case of an accident and can be bought by paying a small sum as a premium.

Importance of personal accident cover

In many towns and cities across India, two-wheelers remain one of the most popular and convenient modes of transport. However, compared to enclosed vehicles, they may expose riders to a higher risk of serious injury in the event of an accident. Without the right insurance protection, such incidents can have a lasting impact, including a loss of income, high medical expenses and emotional and financial strain on the rider’s family.

A personal accident cover can help ease these challenges. It offers timely financial assistance if something unfortunate happens, ensuring that the rider’s family is not left financially vulnerable.

Is personal accident cover mandatory for two-wheelers?

According to the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, it is necessary for all two-wheelers to have third-party insurance. Over the years, with the rising number of road accidents involving bikes, the government also made it compulsory for riders to have personal accident cover. So, is personal accident cover mandatory for bike insurance? Yes, the rules now state that the personal accident (PA) cover is mandatory for the owner-rider.

A few changes were made to these rules in 2019, which are given below:

• Personal accident coverage is necessary for all two-wheelers, whether you already have third-party or comprehensive bike insurance.
• In case of permanent disability of the vehicle owner during a mishap, personal accident coverage offers compensation of up to 15 lakh rupees.
• If you have an existing personal accident coverage, you do not need to purchase a separate coverage for riding a new bike. The same plan can provide coverage for both vehicles.

Cover under PA in bike insurance

The personal accident cover in the bike insurance plan usually includes the following:

• Permanent total disability: If the policyholder suffers a permanent disability due to an accident, they might receive 100% of the sum insured.
• Loss of two limbs or sight of both eyes: This condition also qualifies the policyholder for 100% of the sum insured.
• Loss of one limb or sight of one eye: The rider can receive 50% of the sum insured.
• Accidental death: In the event of the policyholder’s death due to an accident, the family can receive 100% of the sum insured.

How can you buy personal accident cover in bike insurance?

Follow these steps to purchase a personal accident cover for your two-wheeler insurance:

• Visit the website of your preferred insurer or insurance broker.
• Choose the two-wheeler insurance option.
• Enter details such as the bike’s make, model, registration number and the owner or driver’s information.
• When add-ons are displayed, select the Compulsory Personal Accident Cover (PA Cover) option.
• Pay the premium securely online using UPI, net banking or your debit/credit card.
• Once payment is complete, download or receive the policy document. Make sure it clearly mentions the personal accident cover and the sum insured.

How to claim personal accident cover in bike insurance online?

If an unfortunate incident occurs, you may file a claim under your personal accident cover by following these steps:

• Inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible.
• File an FIR at the nearest police station and collect medical reports in case of injury or a post-mortem report in case of death.
• Fill in the claim form carefully and attach all required documents, such as the bike’s registration certificate (RC), driving license, death certificate and other relevant documents.
• Submit the completed form either online or physically, depending on your insurer’s process. The insurer will verify your claim before approving it.
• Once approved, the payout will be credited to your bank account.

Do note that failure to comply with the policy terms and conditions may result in claim rejection.

Tips to maximise your personal accident cover in bike insurance

To maximise the benefits of your personal accident cover in bike insurance, it is important to ensure that all the information provided at the time of purchase is correct and up to date, as any errors can affect the claim process. Make sure the sum insured is sufficient for your financial needs and consider increasing it if your responsibilities or income have grown.

Practising safe riding habits is equally crucial. Always wear protective gear and avoid risky behaviour, such as riding under the influence or without a valid licence, as such actions can lead to claim rejection.

Lastly, review your policy regularly, especially at the time of renewal, and update the coverage if you purchase a new bike or if your circumstances change, ensuring continued and adequate protection.

Factors that affect personal accident cover premiums

Several factors may influence how much you pay for your PA cover:

• Sum insured: A higher sum insured usually results in a higher premium. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI)-mandated premium for a standard ₹15 lakh cover is minimal but may vary slightly among insurers.
• Risk factors: Your age, location, riding habits, bike model and occupation can all impact the premium.
• Add-ons or extensions: Including additional cover for pillion riders or extending the cover beyond the basic own-driver protection can increase the premium.
• Existing cover: If you already hold a PA cover for another vehicle, some insurers may allow you to opt out for your second vehicle, helping you avoid duplication and reduce costs.

Conclusion

A personal accident cover is more than just a formality; it’s also a shield of financial protection for you and your loved ones. It can offer crucial financial assistance in the event of a permanent disability, loss of life or injury, ensuring your family is not left to face the burden alone.

If you want to receive personalised guidance and support while choosing a comprehensive two wheeler insurance policy, fill out the form on this page to connect with a professional and find the correct protection for your needs.

FAQs

• Is the PA cover available for pillion riders too?

Generally, the standard personal accident (PA) cover applies only to the owner-driver. If you want to include the pillion rider, you may need to purchase an additional add-on.

• If a rider has a PA cover under one plan, do they need it again for the second vehicle?

If you already have an active PA cover, you can choose to opt out of it when insuring another two-wheeler.

• Will the claim get rejected if the rider rode the bike without wearing the helmet?

Wearing a helmet is both a legal and a safety requirement. Whether a claim is rejected or reduced will depend on your insurer’s terms, as some may limit payouts if safety rules are ignored. Always review your policy’s fine print carefully.

• What is the minimum sum insured under the PA cover?

The minimum sum insured for an owner-driver under the PA Cover is ₹15 Lakh for permanent disability or death.

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.