🚗 Key Motor Insurance Terms
For a motor insurance sales manager or agent, product knowledge is power. Customers often find insurance jargon confusing—so simplifying these terms builds trust and helps close sales faster. Below are the key terms every insurance professional must master.
1. IDV (Insured Declared Value)
Definition: The IDV is the maximum sum assured for a vehicle under an own damage policy. It represents the vehicle’s current market value minus depreciation.
Why it matters: In case of theft or total loss, the insurer pays the IDV.
Sales Tip: Explain that higher IDV = higher premium, but also higher claim settlement.
2. NCB (No Claim Bonus)
Definition: A discount on the Own Damage (OD) premium for each claim-free year, ranging from 20% in the first year up to 50%.
Key Points:
Applies only to OD premium, not third-party premium.
Transferable to a new insurer or new vehicle.
Sales Tip: Highlight NCB as a reward for safe driving and long-term savings.
3. Deductibles (Compulsory & Voluntary)
Compulsory Deductible: A fixed minimum amount the insured must bear on every claim (e.g., ₹1,000 for cars up to 1500 cc, ₹2,000 above 1500 cc, ₹100 for two-wheelers).
Voluntary Deductible: An optional higher deductible chosen by the insured in exchange for reduced premium.
Sales Tip: Position voluntary deductible as a way to lower premiums for confident, low-risk drivers.
4. Constructive Total Loss (CTL)
Definition: Declared when the cost of repair exceeds 75% of the IDV or the vehicle is beyond repair.
Sales Tip: Use CTL to explain why IDV selection is crucial—under-insurance means lower payouts in total loss cases.
5. Endorsements (IMT Clauses)
Definition: Special conditions or modifications added to the policy (e.g., coverage for CNG/LPG kits, electrical accessories, use for driving schools).
Sales Tip: Tailor endorsements as customized solutions—they show customers that policies can adapt to unique needs.
6. Break-in Insurance
Definition: When a policy lapses (not renewed on time). Requires vehicle inspection before re-issuance.
Sales Tip: Stress timely renewal to protect NCB benefits and avoid inspection hassles.
7. Cover Note
Definition: A temporary certificate issued for up to 60 days when the full policy document cannot be immediately issued.
Sales Tip: Use this term to reassure clients—“You are covered instantly, even before the final policy document arrives.”
8. Certificate of Insurance
Definition: Legal proof of insurance under the Motor Vehicles Act. Must be produced on demand by traffic police.
Sales Tip: Emphasize its role as a mandatory document—reinforces why insurance isn’t optional.
9. Add-On Covers
Examples: Zero Depreciation, Engine Protect, Roadside Assistance, Return to Invoice.
Sales Tip: Position add-ons as “affordable upgrades for complete peace of mind.”
Key Takeaways for Agents & Sales Managers
Simplify Jargon: Break terms like IDV or NCB into everyday examples.
Highlight Value: Show how these terms affect claims, savings, and peace of mind.
Upsell Smartly: Use add-ons and endorsements to increase policy value.
Educate Customers: Empower clients with clarity—trust leads to loyalty.
✅ In short: Knowing and explaining IDV, NCB, deductibles, CTL, and endorsements is not just about compliance—it’s about building credibility and selling smarter.