Working of the Airbag System in Car

In recent years, the importance of safety features in vehicles has gained significant attention, and one such crucial safety feature is airbags. Airbags are meant to provide an additional layer of protection to the occupants of the vehicle in the event of a collision. With them being such a crucial feature for safety of the people in the vehicle, it is important to have them in your car. These days, most cars come equipped with airbags. But this feature is single-use, i.e., once deployed, the airbags have to be replaced. This can add to your repair costs. But it may help if the cost is covered by your vehicle insurance. So, are airbags covered by your insurance? Yes, most vehicle insurance policies will cover airbags. Here is what you need to know about insurance coverage for airbags.

How do Airbags Work?

Before we get to the insurance coverage for airbags, let’s first understand how airbags work in a car. The electronic control unit of the airbag system is equipped with a sensor. When a collision occurs, the sensor sends a signal to the inflator present in the airbag module. This creates a chemical reaction in the inflator, specifically between the spark plug and an igniter, which leads to creations of a gas intended to inflate the airbag. The inflation happens in a matter of seconds. Airbags are more effective if the driver and co-passenger are wearing seatbelts as it helps in reducing the impact of the accident in tandem with the airbag.

Types of Car Airbags

Here are the different types of airbags commonly used in cars:

1. Front Airbags: Positioned on the steering wheel and passenger-side dashboard, front airbags protect the driver and front passenger in the event of a crash.
2. Side Airbags: These airbags are designed to protect occupants in case of a side impact. They are typically located on the side of the seats.
3. Knee Airbags: Positioned beneath the steering wheel or dashboard, knee airbags help protect the front passengers from knee injuries during an accident.
4. Curtain Airbags: Mounted on the vehicle's roof, curtain airbags deploy like a curtain to protect the occupants from head injuries in a side collision.

Inclusion of Airbags in Car Insurance Policies

Car insurance policies in India generally include coverage for airbags. Airbags are considered part of the vehicle's built-in safety system. Therefore, comprehensive car insurance plans typically provide coverage for damages to the airbags in the event of an accident or other covered perils.^ Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under Motor insurance policy.

Airbags and Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive car insurance is a common type of policy that covers a range of risks and damages. This type of policy provides coverage for both third-party liabilities and damages to your own vehicle. It includes coverage for accidental damages, theft, fire, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events. Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under Motor insurance policy. Under this insurance policy, the airbags are considered part of the insured vehicle. Therefore, if the airbags are damaged or deployed due to an accident or any other covered event, the insurance company will typically cover the cost of repair or replacement, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy. If the accident which led to the deployment of the airbags was caused by you, the policy will cover the cost of replacing the damaged airbags. If the accident was caused by third-party, their policy will pay for the replacement of your airbags.*

Claim Process for Airbag Coverage

Here are the general steps involved in the claim process for airbag coverage:

• Notify the Insurance Provider

Contact your insurance company to inform them about the accident and airbag deployment. Provide all the necessary details, including the date, time, location, and nature of the incident.

• File a Claim

Fill out the claim form provided by the insurance company. Include all the required details about the accident, damage to the vehicle, and airbag deployment. Submit any supporting documents, such as the police report, if applicable.

• Assessment and Inspection

The insurance company will assign a surveyor to assess the damages and inspect the vehicle. The surveyor will evaluate the extent of damage to the airbags and other related components.

• Claim Settlement

Once the assessment is complete, the insurance company will process the claim based on the terms and conditions of the policy. If the claim is approved, the insurance company will cover the cost of repairing or replacing the airbags, subject to the policy's coverage limits and deductibles. ^Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under Motor insurance policy.

Factors You Should Consider

While car insurance policies generally cover airbags, it's essential to consider the following factors:

• Policy Coverage Limits

Review your car insurance policy to understand the coverage limits for airbags. Ensure that the coverage is sufficient to cover the cost of repair or replacement in case of damage or deployment. If the coverage is insufficient or has too many exclusions, change the type of policy before you renew your existing car insurance . Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under Motor insurance policy.

• Exclusions and Deductibles

Familiarise yourself with the policy exclusions and deductibles that may apply to airbag coverage. Some policies may have specific conditions or limitations, so it's crucial to read the policy document carefully.

• Regular Policy Updates

Keep your car insurance policy updated with the correct information about your vehicle and its safety features, including airbags. It ensures that you have adequate coverage and avoids any potential claim-related issues.

Conclusion

It is vital to have a proper coverage for airbags under your car insurance policy, given how crucial airbags are. If you are looking to purchase a better policy for an all-round coverage, use the car insurance calculator to see how much the policy would cost. *Standard T&C apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.