Why Monsoon Flooded Roads Hurt Bikes More Than Cars?

Reasons Why Two-wheelers Are at Higher Risk During the Rainy Season

While the rainy season can bring excitement for two-wheeler owners, it also means that they need to exercise caution. Some of the common reasons why bikes are more exposed to road mishaps during the monsoon season are:

Low Engine Position

The engine position of the two-wheeler is at the lower part of the bike, making it more vulnerable to damage due to waterlogging. When excessive water enters the engine, the part plug, air filter, or exhaust, it can cause temporary to permanent damage. The engine may come to a halt, make noise, or cause internal damage.

Rusting of Metal

Metal parts, chains, brakes, etc., of the two-wheelers are open. Regular contact of metal with water may lead to rusting and corrosion of these parts. Hence, it may lead to poor performance of the bike and require repair.

Poor Visibility

Heavy rain can dim visibility, especially over the helmet. This poor visibility is one of the reasons why accidents may occur during the rainy season. It is also not quite possible to drive while keeping the helmet shutter up. So, it is best to pause your ride amid heavy rain.

Old Tyres & Slippery Roads

Rubbing of tyres against roads for years may require tyre replacement. If you choose to drive the bike with worn-out tires in the rain, it may be risky. Bikes become vulnerable to slips and skids, especially when the road is already slippery.

Hidden Hazards on the Road

Rain leads to waterlogging on various roads. Open manholes, bumps, and broken roads can be hazardous for two-wheelers. These hidden hazards can lead to risks of accidents and serious damage to bikes.

Poor Balance

It is common to lose balance while driving a two-wheeler in the rain. Due to slippery roads, worn-out tires, waterlogging on roads, and poor visibility, balance may not be at its best. Thus, the risk of accidents increases.

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How Can You Safeguard Your Two-Wheeler?

For a frequent two-wheeler rider, it is not possible to pause the vehicle during the monsoon. You just have to be extra careful and follow basic tips to ensure the safety of both the bike and the rider. Some of these tips are:

Avoid Deep Water

Whether you live in metro cities or rural areas, you may experience waterlogging during the monsoon. If you own a two-wheeler, it's best to avoid deep water roads, especially those with low ground visibility. You never know where there’s an open manhole or a big pothole. Broken roads can easily cause imbalance.

Do Not Accelerate/Brake Much

Roads become slippery during the rainy season, and when they come into contact with the tyre, it may cause imbalance, slips, and skids. So, you must avoid driving at high speed. Even brakes must be used cautiously to avoid skids.

Protect Vulnerable Parts

To prevent rusting and short circuits, you must use protective grease or sprays on metals. It helps avoid direct contact between water and the bike parts.

Check Tyres

Make sure to keep an eye on your two-wheeler’s tyres. If they are worn out, it is important to get them replaced, especially during the rainy season.

Regular Servicing

Do not delay servicing of your bike. Ensure regular servicing to maintain the quality and life of your two-wheeler. This is especially important during the monsoon.

Park Safely

Parking your two-wheeler outside during the monsoon may not be a good idea. To avoid the sinking of water inside the engine, it is better to park in shaded and safer areas.

Wear Proper Gears

When riding bikes on rainy days, it's essential to wear two-wheeler gear. It protects your knees, elbows, neck, and head from serious damage, even in the case of mishaps. It may be tiring to do so, but do not skip this part.

Why Does Bike Insurance Matter?

Bike insurance is mandatory for motorcycles. Under the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988, it is mandatory to have a minimum of third-party bike insurance. A two-wheeler insurance may not prevent an accident, but it can definitely ensure you don't have to dig into your savings. In case of a mishap requiring repair or injury to the driver, bike insurance covers admissible expenses.

A comprehensive bike insurance policy generally covers damage due to flood and waterlogging. If needed, your insurer will tow the vehicle to the garage for repair services. You may also purchase certain add-ons for extended coverage, like engine protection cover. With this add-on, you get coverage for engine damage as well. So, this monsoon, do not miss out on providing maximum coverage to your bike. Two-wheeler insurance claims can safeguard your hard-earned money from being exhausted in the garage.

To Conclude

You need not be scared of the monsoon. Enjoying a cup of tea and fries out in this weather is always a good idea, especially on your two-wheeler. The breezy wind and chilly weather are best enjoyed on a two-wheeler. To ensure maximum protection, purchase bike insurance and exercise caution while driving a two-wheeler on a rainy day. You need to be careful while accelerating and braking the beast. Try to avoid deep water roads or drive slowly if you have to enter the road. Take your two-wheeler for regular servicing and keep a check on the engine and tyres.

In the end, choose the right two-wheeler insurance. At Jio Insurance Broking, you can easily compare various plans to choose the best one for your two-wheeler!