In a January 2019 ruling, the Indian Supreme Court overturned a Kerala high court ruling that permitted owners of cars and motorcycles to modify their vehicles in accordance with the Kerala Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989. For both auto owners and their insurance, the order has significant ramifications. An outline of the aforementioned Supreme Court ruling, the kinds of automobile modifications it permits and prohibits, the associated effect on insurance rates, and a list of eight car modification types you should disclose to your insurer are provided below.
No automobile is permitted to change its original specifications, according to this ruling, which amended section 52 of the Motor Vehicles Act of 1988. These cannot be changed because they are stated explicitly when the car is registered. The order's primary goals are to regulate vehicle pollution, minimise accidents, and preserve the ease and safety of road transportation.
Vehicle modifications are not strictly prohibited under the Supreme Court's ruling. Section 52 has exceptions that permit particular changes that don't impact the details listed in the vehicle's registration documents. These are listed below:
Additional extras include rain shields, audio systems, door covers, markers, stickers, and labels.
The engine of the car, with the regional RTO's prior notice and consent. This is permitted in consideration of the fuel conversion facility and the resulting pollution control and fuel economy. Kits for fuel conversion that lower emissions or improve performance.
Premiums for motor insurance are determined by a number of variables, including the vehicle's make, model, specs, miles, market price, condition, extras, and more. Any alterations made to an insured vehicle alter the formula used to determine the premium.
For instance, an automobile that has been driven 70,000 miles is sold. The insurance rate for this vehicle will now be calculated differently than it would be for a brand-new vehicle with the same make, model, and specs. This is especially true for significant modifications like those made to improve engine performance or increase economy.
An automobile having a dual exhaust system installed to boost off-take will also be more likely to be involved in an accident. Its insurers will thus raise its premium. An automobile with a dual fuel supply system will also fetch a higher price. However, rates will be cheaper for vehicles with greater safety features and cutting-edge technology that lowers the chance of collisions.
The insurer should be informed of the following changes:
This is frequently done to improve the car's appearance and give it a more masculine appearance, or for more utilitarian reasons like boosting its load-bearing capability. Whatever changes made to the vehicle's body for whatever reason may affect its intended use, thus the insurance must be notified.
The car's engine is its fundamental component. The power and speed will be impacted by any changes made to it.
A car's suspension and braking systems are essential components for its safety. The insurer must be notified of any changes made to these systems.
These are also taken into account when determining the cost of motor insurance. The premium estimate may be impacted if you add pricey music systems and sophisticated front-rear air conditioning in the cabin. In addition, the insurance rate takes into account the dashboard, upholstery, steering wheels, and other amenities.
Adding a new wheel can make your automobile seem better and raise its worth, which will raise the premium as well.
The premium of the vehicle will also be impacted by designer paintwork or painting with speciality paints.
A lot of designers are increasingly concentrating on making cars accessible to people with disabilities, both for the driver and passengers. Power steering, automatic transmissions, and swivel seats are a few popular modifications made to cars to make them accessible to people with disabilities. You also need to let the insurance company know about any changes.
Automobiles are frequently altered for competitions, motocross, cross-country travel, animal encounters, etc. The insurer should also be made aware of these changes.
To ensure that every component of your priceless vehicle is adequately secured, Think ahead and notify your insurance of any changes you make to it.
The Supreme Court's 2019 ruling on vehicle modifications emphasizes safety, pollution control, and road regulation compliance, impacting both automobile owners and insurers. While certain alterations are allowed, significant modifications must align with legal stipulations and be disclosed to the insurer. Proper communication about these changes ensures accurate insurance premiums and comprehensive coverage, safeguarding vehicles against unforeseen risks. By understanding the implications of modifications and adhering to the law, car owners can enjoy enhanced functionality and aesthetics without compromising insurance benefits or legal compliance.
This blog is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. The content may include outdated information regarding the topic discussed. Readers are encouraged to confirm the accuracy and relevance of the data before making any significant decisions. SBI General Insurance disclaims responsibility for any errors or consequences arising from the use of outdated information provided herein.
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