River Rafting in Rishikesh? If the Rope Snaps, Your Term Plan Might Pay ₹0.
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| River Rafting in Rishikesh? |
You are standing on the edge of a platform in Rishikesh, about to bungee jump. Or you are strapped into a raft, ready to fight the rapids of the Ganges. You feel the adrenaline kick in.
You think, "It's risky, but I have a ₹1 Crore Term Insurance policy. If anything happens, my family is safe."
Think again.
Most standard Term Life Insurance policies in India contain hidden clauses regarding "Hazardous Activities" that could leave your family fighting a legal battle instead of receiving the claim.
The 'Hazardous Activity' Exclusion (Read Your Policy)
Insurance is a game of probability. Insurers calculate premiums based on a normal life, not one where you voluntarily jump off a bridge.
Check your policy bond for a section called "Exclusions." While the Base Life Cover might pay out for a one-off leisure activity (depending on the insurer), the Accidental Death Benefit (ADB) Rider almost always REJECTS claims arising from:
- Bungee Jumping / Skydiving
- River Rafting / White Water Rafting
- Mountaineering / Paragliding
- Motor Racing / Scuba Diving
The Risk: If you rely on the "Double Payout" from an Accidental Death Rider, know that it pays ₹0 for adventure sports accidents.
The "Non-Disclosure" Trap
This is where claims get rejected instantly.
If you are a frequent adventurer (e.g., you go trekking every month) but you did not disclose this lifestyle in the proposal form while buying the policy, the insurer can deny the entire claim (even the base cover) citing "Material Non-Disclosure."
Rule: If it's a hobby you do often, you MUST declare it.
So, How Do I Get Covered?
Does this mean you should stop living your life? No. But you need to buy the right cover.
- Declare It: When buying Term Insurance, tick the "Hazardous Activities" box. Insurers like Tata AIA or Max Life may cover you by charging a slightly higher premium.
- Buy Specific Travel Insurance: Standard travel insurance excludes sports. You must buy a domestic travel plan with an optional "Adventure Sports Add-on" (offered by insurers like Bajaj Allianz or Digit). This covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation.
⚠️ One Day vs. Professional
Note that most policies only cover you if you are doing this for leisure (a one-time holiday fun) under the supervision of a licensed instructor. If you go solo or participate in a professional race, standard policies will pay nothing.
Don't Jump Without a Safety Net
The thrill lasts for 10 minutes, but the financial consequences for your family last a lifetime.
Before you strap on that safety gear, take 5 minutes to check your insurance policy wording. Do not let a moment of fun turn into a financial disaster. If in doubt, buy a temporary Travel Insurance policy with Adventure Cover—it costs less than a pizza.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Policy exclusions vary significantly between insurers (e.g., LIC vs. Private players). Always read the "Permanent Exclusions" section of your Policy Bond or consult your insurance advisor before participating in hazardous activities.
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