School Bus Insurance

school bus insurance

School bus insurance is a specialized type of commercial auto insurance that provides coverage for school buses and their operators. It includes liability coverage for bodily injury or property damage caused by the school bus, as well as physical damage coverage for damages to the bus itself.

Cost of School Bus Insurance In India

The cost of insuring a 12-seater school bus in India with a third-party policy is 24,999 Rupees for a one-year period of coverage. This policy offers coverage for damages caused to third-party properties, with a limit of up to 750,000 Rupees. Additionally, it provides liability coverage with no limit for any claims arising from third-party deaths or injuries.

school bus insurance cost in India

Top Factors Influencing School Bus Premiums

  • Bus Age and Make: Newer buses with advanced safety features may have lower premiums.
  • Bus Usage: Daily commutes vs. occasional trips affect premiums.
  • Driver Details: Experience, age, and driving record impact premiums.
  • Seating Capacity: Larger buses may have higher premiums.
  • Location: Routes and accident prevalence in the area affect costs.
  • Coverage Type: Comprehensive vs. third-party insurance.
  • Claim History: A history of claims can impact premiums.
  • Safety Features: Features like seat belts and ABS can influence premiums.
  • Deductibles: Higher deductibles may lower premiums.
  • Discounts: Look for discounts for good driving records or multiple policies.

How To Reduce School Bus Insurance Cost

  • Choose the Right Coverage: While liability insurance is essential, comprehensive coverage offers additional protection.
  • Safety Inspection: Regular inspections can help identify and mitigate risks.
  • Defensive Driving Course: Enhance driving skills to potentially lower insurance rates.
  • Maintain a Good Driving Record: Avoid accidents and violations to keep premiums low.
  • Shop Around: Compare quotes from different insurers to find the best deal.

Key features of school bus insurance

Key FeaturesBenefits
Damages to third partyTPPD cover up to 7.5 lac & Unlimited for liabilities.
Accidental CoverageUp to sum insured.
Theft CoverIncluded in comprehensive policy.
Price24050 For a 12 Seater School Bus
key features of school bus insurance policy

Compare School Bus Insurance Prices

SITTING CAPACITY OF THE BUSINSURANCE COST
1224050
1526594
1728290
2030834
2434226
2736770
3241010
3745250
4047797

Types of school bus Insurance

Third-Party Insurance: Covers losses due to third-party property damage, injury, or death. Does not cover damages to your own bus.

Comprehensive Insurance: Covers all aspects of third-party insurance plus damages to your own bus, including theft, fire, and external damages.

Comprehensive insurance is preferred for complete protection.

Inclusions In School Bus Insurance

Image of a damaged school bus after an accident

ACCIDENTS

Damages to or by school bus in case of an accident are covered in comprehensive or first party school bus insurance. [Coverage Limited By Sum Insured]

FIRE

In unforeseen incident of a school bus get damaged or lost totally in the case of fire the school bus insurance policy covers the losses for the insured. Hence its always advisable to buy comprehensive insurance to have such benefits.

Image of a school bus on fire
Image of a stolen school bus

THEFT

School bus policy provide coverage against the loss of school bus because of any theft case.

THIRD PARTY LOSSES

Third party property damages are covered by 7.5 lac and injuries/deaths of third parties are covered by unlimited amount.

Image of a damaged property by school bus
natural calamity cover in bus insurance

Natural Disasters

Partial or total damages to school bus insurance due to any kind of natural calamity such as floods, theft, lightening etc.

Exclusions

  • Unethical Driving: Claims are not covered if the driver is intoxicated or lacks a valid license.
  • Deliberate Loss: Claims are rejected for deliberate acts.
  • Consequential Loss: Damage from indirect causes like engine wear is not covered.
  • Normal Wear and Tear: Long-term damage from wear is not covered.
  • State of Emergency: War, civil unrest, or nuclear incidents are not covered.

How to Buy School Bus Insurance Online

  • Research and Compare: Look for the best insurance providers and policies.
  • Visit the Provider’s Website: Navigate to the “School Bus Insurance” section
  • Enter Vehicle Details: Provide information about the bus.
  • Select Coverage: Choose between comprehensive or third-party insurance.
  • Add Coverage: Select any additional coverage options.
  • Review and Pay: Confirm policy details and make the payment.
  • Receive Confirmation: Obtain policy details via email and print a copy.

How To Renew School Bus Insurance

  • Visit the Provider’s Website: Go to the “Renew School Bus Insurance” section.
  • Enter Policy Details: Provide the policy number and expiry date.
  • Review and Pay: Confirm details and make the payment.
  • Receive Confirmation: Get renewed policy details via email and print a copy.

List Of Add-Ons In School Bus Insurance

  • Zero Depreciation Cover
  • IMT 23 Cover
  • Paid Driver Cover
  • Owner Driver Cover
  • Cover to other employees such as conductor or coolie
  • No Claim Bonus Protection Cover

Policy Limits

  • Third-Party Property Damage: Up to ₹6,000 in restricted TPPD policies.
  • Basic Liability Coverage: Up to ₹7.5 lakh for third-party property damages.
  • Vehicle Usage: Coverage is limited to uses mentioned in the policy
  • .Driver Conduct: Claims are rejected if the driver is intoxicated.
  • Passenger Capacity: Claims may be rejected for overloading.

Things To Know Before Buying School Bus Insurance Online

  1. Insurance Provider: Research the provider’s claim settlement ratio and process.
  2. Cashless Claims: Check for tie-ups with local garages for cashless claims.
  3. Cost: Compare costs across different platforms.
  4. Towing Facility: Ensure coverage for towing charges.
  5. .Liability Coverage: Include coverage for drivers and staff.
  6. Personal Accident Insurance for Students: Separate insurance might be needed for students.

School Bus Insurance Claim Process

  • Inform the Insurer: Report the incident immediately.
  • Provide Details: Submit necessary documents and details.
  • File FIR: Obtain a copy of the FIR for third-party liabilities.
  • Assessment: A surveyor will assess the damage.
  • Approval or Rejection: The insurer will decide based on the policy terms.
  • Receive Compensation: Get cash or repairs as per the claim approval.
  • Appeal if Needed: File an appeal or approach the ombudsman for disputes.

Documents Required To File A Claim

Following documents are required while filing a claim in school bus insurance policy –

  • Copy of Registration Certificate (RC) of school bus.
  • Original loss estimate
  • Original repair bill or invoice
  • Repair bill payment receipt
  • Police FIR (in case of third party liabilities)
  • Vehicle’s keys (in case of theft)
  • Non-traceable certificate (in case of theft) 

List Of School Bus Insurance Companies In India

Following is the list of general insurance companies you can choose to buy third party or comprehensive insurance plan for school buses

  • Reliance General Insurance Co.
  • SBI General Insurance Company Ltd
  • Shriram General Insurance Co.
  • Tata AIG General Insurance Company Ltd.
  • United India Insurance Company

FAQs

How much is the insurance cost for a bus?

Depends on the type of bus use. Bus for personal use of school cost less than a bus which is used for public transport or a bus which is used for employee transportation of a company.

How much does it cost to insure a school bus in India

The cost of insuring a 12-seater school bus with a third-party policy is 24,999 Rupees for a one-year period of coverage. This policy offers coverage for damages caused to third-party properties, with a limit of up to 750,000 Rupees. Additionally, it provides liability coverage with no limit for any claims arising from third-party deaths or injuries.

Is it mandatory to buy insurance for a school bus?

Without a doubt! School buses are mostly utilized by schools or third-party organizations to carry kids from their homes to school and back. As a result, it is critical that you obtain bus insurance that not only protects your organization against unanticipated losses but also ensures the children and teachers that ride in these buses on a regular basis. On the other hand, as per the Indian Judiciary System, it is mandatory to have at least third-party school bus coverage.

Are there any bulk discounts in school bus policies?

Yes, Insurers are more likely to offer a discount if you opt for multiple insurances at once. You can get these quotes hassle-free via Policymeter.

How do you insure a school bus for personal use?

To insure a school bus for personal use you can compare quotes online from many insurance providers in India. You can also request a quote here

What is school bus insurance?

School bus insurance is a specialized type of commercial auto insurance that provides coverage for school buses and their operators. It includes liability coverage for bodily injury or property damage caused by the school bus, as well as physical damage coverage for damages to the bus itself.

What does school bus insurance typically cover?

School bus insurance typically covers liability for bodily injury or property damage caused by the bus, physical damage to the bus itself, as well as coverage for theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. It may also include coverage for medical expenses, legal liabilities, and other optional coverages.

What factors affect the cost of school bus insurance premiums in India?

Several factors can affect the cost of school bus insurance premiums in India, including the age and condition of the bus, the location of the school, the experience and driving record of the bus driver, the coverage limits and deductibles chosen, and the insurance provider’s underwriting criteria.

What are the common exclusions in school bus insurance policies in India?

Common exclusions in school bus insurance policies in India may include damages or liabilities arising from intentional acts, racing or speed testing, use of the bus for illegal purposes, wear and tear, mechanical breakdowns, and damages to tires, tubes, and batteries, among others. It is crucial to review the policy exclusions carefully to understand the coverage limitations.

Can I customize my school bus insurance policy as per my requirements?

Yes, most insurance providers offer options to customize school bus insurance policies as per specific requirements. Additional coverages such as passenger liability, employee dishonesty, personal accident coverage for students, and breakdown assistance can be added to the policy for enhanced protection. However, customizations may affect the premium cost and should be discussed with the insurance provider.

What should I do in case of a school bus accident?

In case of a school bus accident, it is essential to prioritize the safety of the students and passengers. Seek medical attention for any injured persons and report the accident to the nearest police station. Contact your insurance provider immediately to initiate the claim process and follow their instructions. It is crucial to document the accident scene, collect evidence, and avoid admitting liability or making any statements without consulting your insurance provider.

Can I transfer my school bus insurance to a new insurance provider?

Yes, you can transfer your school bus insurance to a new insurance provider at the time of policy renewal. However, it is advisable to review the policy terms, coverage, and premiums offered by the new provider to ensure that it meets your requirements. Also, consider the claim settlement record and reputation of the new provider before making a switch.

What are the consequences of not having school bus insurance in India?

Not having valid school bus insurance in India can have serious consequences. It is against the law to operate a commercial vehicle without insurance coverage for third-party liability and non-compliance can result in penalties, fines, and legal liabilities. In case of an accident or damage caused by the school bus, the operator may be held personally liable for the financial losses, medical expenses, and legal claims, which can be financially devastating. Moreover, not having insurance coverage may also affect the reputation of the school and its ability to operate legally.

Can I get discounts on school bus insurance premiums in India?

Answer: Yes, many insurance providers offer discounts on school bus insurance premiums in India. These discounts may be based on factors such as the age and condition of the bus, the experience and driving record of the bus driver, the safety features installed in the bus, and the claim history of the school. It is advisable to discuss with your insurance provider to explore available discounts and maximize your cost savings.

What safety measures can I take to reduce school bus insurance premiums?

Implementing adequate safety measures can help reduce school bus insurance premiums. This may include installing safety features such as seat belts, fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, GPS tracking devices, and security alarms in the bus. Conducting regular maintenance checks, driver training programs, and safety drills can also demonstrate your commitment to safety and help negotiate lower premiums with your insurance provider.

What should I consider when renewing my school bus insurance policy in India?

When renewing your school bus insurance policy in India, it is crucial to review the policy terms and conditions, coverage limits, deductibles, and premiums offered by your existing insurance provider. Compare quotes from multiple providers to ensure that you are getting the best possible coverage at the most competitive premiums. Consider any changes in the bus’s age, condition, usage, and safety measures, and update the policy accordingly to ensure adequate coverage.

How can I make a claim under my school bus insurance policy?

To make a claim under your school bus insurance policy, you need to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after the accident or damage occurs. Provide all the relevant details, including the policy number, date, time, and location of the incident, description of the damages or injuries, and any other relevant information. Your insurance provider will guide you through the claim process, including submitting the required documents, arranging for inspections, and settling the claim as per the policy terms and conditions.

How can I ensure smooth claim settlement under my school bus insurance policy?

To ensure smooth claim settlement under your school bus insurance policy, it is crucial to follow some best practices. These include reporting the incident to your insurance provider promptly, providing accurate and complete information, cooperating with the claim investigation process, submitting all the required documents on time, and maintaining transparent communication with your insurance provider. It is also advisable to review the policy terms and conditions, including the coverage, deductibles, and claim settlement process, before making a claim.

Resources Related To School Bus Insurance In India

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All the prices shared on the webpage are sourced from IRDA’s latest motor insurance premium rate list for 2022-2023.