Buying a used scooter can save you a good chunk of money, but what many buyers forget is that insurance matters just as much as the scooter itself. Whether you’re buying from an individual or a dealer, here are the key insurance tips you must keep in mind before closing the deal.
🔁 1. Transfer the Insurance Immediately
When you purchase a second-hand scooter, insurance doesn’t automatically transfer to your name. As the new owner, you need to:
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Inform the insurance company within 14 days
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Submit a transfer request with documents (sale agreement, RC copy, ID proof, etc.)
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Pay a nominal transfer fee
⚠️ If you don’t transfer the insurance, you can’t raise a claim—even if the policy is still active.
📜 2. Check the Current Policy Details
Before making the payment, ask for the current insurance copy and verify:
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Policy type (Third-party or Comprehensive)
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Expiry date
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Previous claims history
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Add-on covers, if any
This gives you insight into how well the vehicle was protected and if you need to upgrade coverage.
🔍 3. Do a Background Check on Claims
If the previous owner made too many claims, it might affect:
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No Claim Bonus (NCB) eligibility
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Premium amount for future renewals
Use the VAHAN portal or ask the insurer to verify the claim history.
🧾 4. Update RC Before Insurance Renewal
The Registration Certificate (RC) must match the name and address on your insurance policy. If there’s a mismatch during a claim, it can be rejected. Make sure to:
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Transfer the RC at the RTO
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Update it with the insurer as soon as possible
✅ 5. Get a Comprehensive Plan for Peace of Mind
Most second-hand scooters come with only third-party insurance. Upgrade to a comprehensive policy to cover:
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Own damage
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Theft
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Natural disasters
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Accidental damages
🛡️ Add-ons like Zero Depreciation and Roadside Assistance are also worth considering.
🧠 Final Thoughts:
Buying a pre-owned scooter is smart—but smart buyers don’t ignore insurance. Make sure the policy is updated in your name, and consider a comprehensive plan that fits your riding needs. A few steps today can save you from massive bills tomorrow!
🔁 Quick Checklist:
✅ RC transfer done
✅ Insurance transferred within 14 days
✅ Policy copy verified
✅ NCB and claims checked
✅ Coverage upgraded if needed
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use the old owner’s insurance until it expires?
A: Technically, yes—but legally, claims won’t be valid unless the policy is transferred to your name.
Q: Is it mandatory to buy a new policy instead of transferring the old one?
A: No, but if the old policy is too basic, buying a new comprehensive plan may be wiser.
Q: Can I get No Claim Bonus from the previous owner?
A: No, NCB is not transferable. It remains with the original policyholder.
