What Is Personal Accident Cover in Bike Insurance?

4 min read | Updated on July 24, 2025, 14:47 IST

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Two-wheelers in India are quite popular due to their affordability and ease of driving on congested roads. However, due to the fundamental nature of bikes, accidents are prone to occur and are often fatal. As per a report, around 70% of accident victims in India are two-wheeler riders and pedestrians.

Besides ensuring the protection of third parties and your bike, your policy should provide sufficient coverage in the event of an injury or fatality. This is where Personal Accident (PA) Cover in bike insurance plays a crucial role.

In this article, we explain what PA cover is, why it’s mandatory, what it includes and excludes, and why every rider should opt for it.

What is a Personal Accident (PA) Cover?

If the owner-driver is killed, injured, or incapacitated in a traffic accident while riding a bike, personal accident coverage in bike insurance offers monetary compensation. In contrast to conventional third-party insurance, which only covers harm or damage to other people, PA coverage guarantees the protection of your health.

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In the event of unfavorable outcomes, such as death or permanent disability, this coverage is intended to cover treatment expenses, make up for lost wages, and provide financial support to your family.

Is PA Cover Mandatory?

Yes, it is mandatory as per the regulatory directives. All the two-wheeler owners should have a PA cover of at least ₹15 lakh for the owner-driver. If you already have an existing PA cover on another vehicle, you’re not required to buy it again for a second bike.

However, you cannot ride a two-wheeler without a PA cover, and it will be considered a violation of the law.

Benefits of Personal Accident Cover

Financial Protection

PA coverage provides a safety net against the high costs of treatment and hospitalization in the event of an accident. It also offers a lump sum payout for permanent disabilities or death.

Affordable and Essential

Despite its importance, PA cover comes at a nominal premium, ensuring compliance with the law and making it an inexpensive yet invaluable part of bike insurance.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that you and your family are financially protected in the event of an accident allows you to ride with greater confidence and peace of mind.

What Does PA Cover Include?

PA cover is designed to compensate the policyholder (or their nominee) in the following scenarios:

Accidental Death

If the rider dies in a bike accident, the nominee receives 100% of the sum insured.

Permanent Total Disability

Complete loss of sight in both eyes or loss of both limbs results in full compensation.

Permanent Partial Disability

Loss of one limb or one eye is compensated for partially, often up to 50%.

Hospitalization Benefits

Some insurers also include daily cash allowance for hospitalization up to a certain number of days.

By default, PA cover applies only to the owner-driver. However, you can opt for additional PA cover for pillion riders at an extra premium.

What Does PA Cover Exclude?

PA cover, like all insurance policies, has certain exclusions. Claims are not admissible if the accident occurs:

While riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Without a valid driving licence.
During illegal or criminal activities.
Outside the geographical coverage area (i.e., outside India).
Due to self-inflicted injuries, suicide attempts, or participation in hazardous sports.

How to Buy and Claim PA Cover?

You can purchase PA cover when you buy or renew your bike insurance policy. In most cases, it is already bundled into the policy to meet the legal requirement. You can also choose higher coverage or add-on options, such as pillion rider cover.

To make a claim:

Inform your insurer immediately after an accident.
File an FIR if necessary and collect the required documents.
Submit claim forms, medical records, hospital bills, and other evidence as requested.
Once verified, the insurer disburses the claim amount in accordance with the policy terms.

Summing up

You cannot consider PA cover as another add-on (which can be overlooked or is needed as per your requirements). It is a legal requirement and is a critical safety net for you and your family. Since two-wheeler riding can be quite risky, a PA cover ensures you’re financially prepared for the worst while you focus on recovery.

FAQs

What is Personal Accident Cover in bike insurance?

It is a mandatory cover that provides financial compensation for injury, disability, or death of the owner-driver in a road accident.

Is PA cover included in all bike insurance policies?

Yes, PA cover is typically bundled with third-party and comprehensive policies to meet legal requirements.

Can I buy PA cover for the pillion rider?

Yes, you can opt for an additional PA cover for pillion riders at a small extra premium.

Does PA cover pay for regular medical expenses?

No, it only covers accident-related injuries, disabilities, or death, not general medical or illness-related expenses.

What is the sum insured under PA cover?

By law, the cover for the owner-driver is up to ₹15 lakh.

About Author

Upstox Desk

Team of expert writers dedicated to providing insightful and comprehensive coverage on stock markets, economic trends, commodities, business developments, and personal finance. With a passion for delivering valuable information, the team strives to keep readers informed about the latest trends and developments in the financial world.