Did you know that motorcycle gear and insurance go hand-in-hand? We are sure that many of you didn’t, but the fact is, they are correlated. In fact, insurance experts suggest that wearing proper motorcycle gear often influences insurance claims. And today we’ll be discussing the same in detail. But before that, let’s first understand a little more about motorcycles and why Filipinos love them.
You see, motorcycles are a big part of the Filipino lifestyle. Known for their exciting riding experience and practicality, they are great for navigating through traffic congestion, which is a reality of our cities, such as Metro Manila. However, with great ease and convenience comes the responsibility to ride safely, which can be achieved by following safe riding practices, learning defensive driving techniques, understanding traffic rules, regulations, and signage, and obtaining the necessary insurance.
Why is motorcycle insurance required? That’s because it offers financial protection to the rider, pillion passenger, and the insured unit itself. While CTPL insurance is mandatory by law, other plans, such as comprehensive insurance, are highly recommended for their extensive protection. In the event of an accident, policyholders can file a claim, which, if approved, results in a settlement amount being paid.
However, did you know that insurance providers, when assessing a claim, not only examine the accident details but also review the safety gear adopted by the rider. For instance, was the rider wearing a helmet, jacket, gloves, or any other protective gear? If yes, we’d like to inform you that the likelihood of claim approval is high.
Let us now understand the correlation between motorcycle insurance claims and safety gear in detail.
So, let’s get started …
Motorcycle insurance in the Philippines - An overview
We have already discussed the importance of motorcycle insurance. Let us now examine the various policies on offer—CTPL, Comprehensive, and add-ons —in detail.
CTPL insurance - Compulsory Third Party Liability insurance is a must for every motor vehicle owner and is a prerequisite for the LTO vehicle registration. It is pretty affordable and covers third-party bodily injuries or death.
Comprehensive insurance - Unlike CTPL, it is not mandatory, but highly recommended for its wide coverage against financial liability arising from theft, accidents, fire, and damage to the insured unit.
Add-ons - Add-ons offer highly personalised coverage to the policyholder as per their requirement. They add to the insurance cost, but are totally worth it for the protection provided. Common add-ons include Acts of God, Personal Accident, and Roadside Assistance, among others.
Also Read: 10 Powerful tips for faster motorcycle insurance claim approval in the Philippines
Motorcycle insurance cost?
In the Philippines, the cost of insurance, also known as a premium, depends on several factors, including the provider, coverage, type of motorcycle (brand, model, and make), value of the unit, and rider’s history; however, usually the policy’s rate starts from around PHP 200.
Motorcycle safety gear - Role in rider’s protection
Motorcycle gear helps minimise injuries and medical costs in case of an accident/collision. Some essential motorcycle gears that riders are recommended to wear include -
- A helmet, preferably DOT/ECE certified, will protect against head injuries
- Gloves for enhanced grip and protection against hand injuries
- An armoured jacket that absorbs shock and thus prevents major injuries like fractures
- Riding pants & boots, for protecting your legs and feet from injuries
Photo from istockMotorcycle insurance claim & safety gears
It is a fact that wearing proper gear, such as a helmet and gloves, influences the claim. Let us see how -
First, wearing proper gear strengthens an insurance claim, as it serves as proof that the rider took safety precautions. So, if you get involved in an accident, wearing a helmet and other safety gear will serve as supporting evidence for the filed claim.
Second, riders wearing safety gear are perceived as more responsible by insurance companies. Such individuals are even tagged as ‘low-risk clients’, which enhances their chance of claim approval. So, don’t be a ‘negligent’ rider who avoids wearing safety gear, leading to partial or complete claim rejection.
Top scenarios where wearing safety gear impacts claim approval
- Local police authorities or an adjuster determined that the accident or injury was caused by negligence due to a lack of safety gear.
- The accident report mentioned that the rider was not wearing a helmet.
- Major injuries were sustained due to a lack of safety gear, which would otherwise have been prevented.
Also Read: How to choose the best motorcycle insurance in the Philippines
Motorcycle insurance claim - Process, requirements, time
Here’s a step-by-step guide to filing a motorcycle insurance claim -
Step 1: After checking everyone’s and your safety, report the incident to the insurance provider as soon as possible (preferably within the first 24 hours).
Step 2: Inform the local police authorities and secure a police report.
Step 3: Click multiple photos of the accident and the surroundings.
Step 4: Duly accomplished claim form and submit all the required documents along with the photos.
Step 5: Cooperate with the adjuster, provide complete and truthful information.
Step 6: Wait for the claim approval.
Documents required for filing the claim
- Insurance policy
- Motorcycle’s OR/CR
- Police report
- Valid ID
Average claim processing time
A motorcycle insurance claim is usually processed within seven days, although it may take up to a month. You see, it all depends on the complexity of the claim and the completeness of the paperwork.
Common reasons for claim rejection
- Misrepresentation of facts and information to the adjuster or in the claim form
- Incomplete paperwork or documentation
- Negligence on the part of the rider, in terms of not following traffic rules, not wearing proper safety gear, etc
- Riding without a valid license
All this highly increases a policyholder's chance of facing claim rejection. As a solution, here are a few tips to get things right and get the claim approved -
- Try buying and wearing certified safety gear, such as helmets, as it conveys a strong sign of responsibility.
- Take care of your motorcycle by having it serviced regularly and undergoing maintenance work.
- Collect evidence and show photos that demonstrate your adherence to traffic rules & regulations, as well as your commitment to wearing safety gear.
Photo from FreepikAlso Read: Why motorcycle riders need both CTPL & comprehensive coverage
Motorcycle safety gears: Cost & benefits
We have already discussed how wearing proper safety gear, such as a helmet and gloves, increases your chances of having a claim approved. Furthermore, they all ensure protection against severe injuries, a smooth claims process, and present you as a responsible rider.
As for cost, motorcycle safety gear can cost between PHP 10,000 and PHP 30,000, which is far less than the medical & hospital bills in case of an accident.
Bottom line
The first lesson given to a first-time car driver or motorcycle rider is to wear proper safety gear when on the road. In the case of a two-wheeler, the need for such gears increases manifold as you are out in the open with no metal shield protecting you or your passengers. In addition to protecting against severe injuries, wearing proper gear enhances your credibility in insurance claims.
You see, in the Philippines, insurance providers consider several factors before deciding on a claim application, including weighing the rider's responsibility quotient, which is linked to the use of safety gear. Therefore, make sure to wear a helmet, gloves, jacket, and use certified safety equipment to save yourself from severe injuries and massive financial strain, in case of claim rejection.
Also Read: How to get Motorcycle Insurance in the Philippines: A step-by-step guide
FAQs
Q1. Do motorcycle owners need insurance?
Ans. In the Philippines, all motor vehicle owners, including those of cars and motorcycles, are required by law to obtain CTPL insurance. It is a prerequisite for vehicle registration at the LTO.
Q2. Does comprehensive motorcycle insurance cover theft?
Ans. While it depends on the insurance provider, most insurers cover theft under comprehensive insurance.
Q3. I was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Can I still file an insurance claim?
Ans. Yes, you can; however, the insurer may consider not wearing a helmet as negligence on your part and reject the claim.
Q4. What are the common reasons for claim rejection in the Philippines?
Ans. Common reasons for claim rejection include expired policy, incomplete documents, and negligence on the part of the client.
Q5. What if I fail to renew my insurance policy?
Ans. This will result in a lapse of coverage, leaving you unprotected and with all financial liability falling on your shoulders.
Q6. What documents are required to file a claim?
Ans. To file an insurance claim, you would need - vehicle OR/CR, valid ID, driver’s license.
Q7. Does motorcycle insurance cover medical and hospital bills?
Ans. Yes, mainly if your policy includes personal accident coverage.
Q8. How long does it take to process an insurance claim?
Ans. While the timeline varies depending on the insurer, it typically takes between 7 and 30 days.
Q9. Will wearing proper motorcycle safety gear lower my premium?
Ans. Wearing safety gear will not lower the premium, but increase your chances of claim approval.
Q10. Does motorcycle insurance cover damage due to acts of god?
Ans. Only if your comprehensive insurance plan includes Acts of God coverage or if you have the Acts of God add-on coverage.
Q11. Is it possible to renew motorcycle insurance online?
Ans. Yes, many insurance providers these days offer clients such digital facilities.
Q12. Can I file a claim if the accident was my fault?
Ans. Yes, if you have comprehensive insurance, note that CTPL insurance only covers third-party injury or death.
Q13. How does proper motorcycle safety gear help with claims?
Ans. Wearing or using proper safety gear supports claim approval, reduces liability, and showcases you as a low-risk & responsible rider.
Q14. What if you ride without wearing a helmet?
Ans. You might face a fine, claim rejection, and incur severe injuries.
Q15. How can I renew my motorcycle insurance policy?
Ans. Contact your insurer on time, submit required documents like the vehicle OR/CR, driver’s license, and pay the renewal premium after duly completing the renewal form.
Also Read: Motorcycle insurance in the Philippines: Top FAQs answered
