- Home>
- Term Insurance Plans>
- Personal Accident Insurance
Trust of 20+ Years in Industry


Written byLakshey Bahl
Insurance Writer
Published 7th November 2025
Reviewed byVaibhav Kumar
Last Modified 22nd February 2026
Insurance Domain Expert

What is Personal Accident Insurance?
A personal accident insurance policy provides protection against death, permanent total or partial disability, and temporary disability in case of an accident. In case of death or permanent disability, the insurer pays a sum insured, and the policy terminates thereafter.
While in the case of partial disability, only a percentage of the sum insured is paid depending on the severity of disablement, whereas a weekly compensation is provided in case of temporary total disability. The personal accident insurance policy is renewable if the accident results in permanent partial disability or temporary total disability.
The personal accident insurance policy can be seen as an income protection plan where your profession and income determine your maximum cover and premium rates. Generally, you can get a maximum cover that is 10 times your annual income, and the premium rates usually depend on your profession. You can use online premium calculator to calculate premium based on your profession.

Alarming Statistics About Accidents in India
According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), India reported 4,87,705 road accidents in 2024, out of which 1,77,177 were fatal. This represents an increase of 2.3% in road accident deaths as compared to 2023 (which saw 1,72,890 fatalities).
Additionally, news reports show that in 2024, approximately 485 road fatalities occurred every day on average. These statistics help us understand the high risk of accidents in India, highlighting the importance of personal accident insurance.
Features of a Personal Accident Insurance Policy
A personal accident insurance policy is designed to provide financial protection if the insured person suffers bodily injury, disability, or death due to an accident. Unlike life or health insurance , this type of policy specifically focuses on accident-related events and their financial consequences. The table below shows what features are included in a personal accident insurance coverage
| Features | Included or not |
|---|---|
| Hospitalisation coverage | Yes |
| Medical coverage | Yes |
| Accidental coverage | Yes |
| Permanent/partial disability | Yes |
| Ambulance coverage | Yes |
| Support for child education | Yes |
Why Buy Personal Accident Insurance?
Personal accident insurance protects you against financial losses from accidents. It provides financial support during death, disability, or temporary income loss. Here are the key reasons to buy a personal accident insurance policy.
1. Accidental Death Benefit
If the insured dies due to an accident, the nominee receives the sum insured. The insurer pays the amount as per policy terms and conditions. This payout offers immediate financial relief to dependants.
2. Permanent Partial Disability Cover
Accidents may cause partial disabilities like the loss of a finger or limb. The insurer pays compensation based on the disability percentage. Total payouts across disabilities cannot exceed the chosen sum insured.
3. Permanent Total Disability Cover
Serious accidents may cause irreversible total disability. The policy pays up to 100% of the sum insured. This benefit helps manage income loss and lifestyle changes.
4. Temporary Total Disability Benefit
If injuries prevent you from working temporarily, the policy pays weekly benefits. The insurer provides compensation for a specified period. You must submit medical certification as required.
5. Hospitalisation Expenses
Many plans offer riders covering accidental hospitalisation expenses. They reimburse room charges, surgery costs, and diagnostic tests. Some plans also cover ICU, ambulance, and selected day-care treatments. Certain policies include recognised AYUSH treatments.
6. Education Grant for Dependent Children
Some policies offer a one-time education grant for dependent children. This benefit applies in case of accidental death or total disability. Policyholders usually need to add this rider separately.
What is Covered Under Personal Accident Insurance?
Both life insurance and health insurance products cover for specific eventualities and provide coverage to mitigate the financial implications of the eventuality. At the same time, personal accident insurance offers additional coverage for a wider range of possible accidents. It can provide coverage for loss of limbs or disabilities caused due to an accident at the workplace or while travelling, etc. This insurance policy can help you create a financially stable environment against any possible eventuality.
Let us look at some of the key things covered under the personal accident insurance policy: -
1. Accidental Death Cover
An emergency such as an accident can be both financially and emotionally distressing for the policyholder’s family members. In case the policyholder suffers fatal injuries or dies due to the accident, the entire sum insured is paid to the nominee as mentioned in the policy document.
2. Permanent Total Disability Cover :
If the accident results in permanent disability or lifelong impairment such as loss of limbs, then a pre-determined sum insured is paid to the policyholder depending on the severity.
3. Permanent Partial Disability Cover
Under the personal accident insurance policy, a certain percentage (up to 100%) of the sum insured is paid to the insured in case of bodily injuries resulting in permanent partial disability.
4. Temporary Total Disability Cover
If the policyholder meets temporary total disability and gets bedridden, the insurer provides a weekly allowance as compensation for the loss of income. The insured can even use this claim amount to pay thei
How Much Personal Accident Insurance Coverage is Enough?
A common rule of thumb is to choose personal accident coverage equal to 100 times your monthly income. If your monthly salary is ₹50,000, a cover of around ₹50 lakh can provide strong financial protection.
This amount can help your family repay loans, manage household expenses, fund children’s education, and maintain income stability in case of accidental death or disability.
Selecting the Right Sum Assured for Term Insurance
Term Insurance with the correct life cover is essential for the financial protection of your family. Know more on how to decide the sum assured for your term insurance. You can click on the below tabs and choose the adequate sum assured:
Disclaimer:
%*
Standard daily premium for 24-year old healthy male, non-smoker, 25 years policy term, 25 year premium payment term (exclusive of GST) for Axis Max Life Smart Total Elite Protection Term Plan (UIN: 104N125V09).
Types of Accident Insurance Policy
The personal accident insurance policy can be divided into two categories. Let us briefly talk about both types: -
Individual Personal Accident Insurance
This is the more common type of personal accident insurance policy, where the insured opts to cover themselves against uninvited accidents. The accidental damage cover includes accidental death, loss of sight or limbs, or other permanent disabilities resulting from the accident.
Group Personal Accident Insurance
This type of personal accident insurance policy applies to a group of people who have something in common—be it employment type or location. Employers generally take these to provide coverage to their employees. Depending on the group size, the insurance company may provide discounts on the premium.
It is a good value-added advantage for small organizations as this policy is available at a low cost. However, this is only a basic plan and offers limited benefits compared to the individual plan.
Benefits of Buying a Personal Accident Insurance
Personal accident insurance is a useful policy to get financial assistance for yourself and your family in the event of an accident. This policy provides comprehensive coverage for accidental death or disabilities. Here are some of the benefits provided under this policy: -
1. Dismemberment Cover
Most personal accident insurance policies offer the benefit pay-outs for the dismemberment of any kind occurring due to an accident. The insurers have pre-determined percentages and ratios in which the benefit is paid to the policyholder.
2. Coverage for Burns
This is an optional extra coverage under the personal accident insurance policy. And this additional insurance covers the possible dismemberment or death due to burns. The cost of treatment is reimbursed to the insured after hospitalization.
3. Reimbursement of Hospitalization Expenses
The insurance company reimburses all or part of the expenses incurred at the hospital. All the medical expenses, room rent charges, doctor’s consultation fees, medical tests, etc., are considered for reimbursement.
4. Daily Allowance
Some insurance companies provide daily cash allowance for the expenses arising due to hospitalization. This allowance to meet the unexpected hospital expenses can be given for up to 30 or 45 days of hospitalization.
5. Education Grants
Depending on the insurer, the policyholder may or may not be eligible for the education grants pay-out. An additional amount to be used for tuition fee payment for the dependent children is paid out to the policyholder. This is a common benefit provided by many insurance companies.
6. Reimbursement of Transportation Expenses
Under the personal accident insurance policy, some insurance companies also provide coverage for the cost of transportation of the mortal remains of the insured person.
Life vs Health vs Personal Accident Insurance
For first-time buyers, it can be confusing to decide which type of insurance is necessary. Although life, health, and personal accident insurance are often discussed together, they serve different financial purposes.
Understanding their differences helps you choose the right protection for your financial planning. The following table shows a comparison of life vs health vs personal accident insurance coverage
| Parameters | Life Insurance | Health Insurance | Personal Accident Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pays a lump sum to nominees in case of the policyholder’s demise | Covers medical costs arising from illness or injury | Provides financial protection against accidental death and accident-related disabilities |
| Coverage | Primarily offers a death benefit, with optional add-ons available | Includes hospitalisation expenses, doctor’s consultations, medicines, and certain preventive treatments | Covers accidental death, permanent total or partial disability, and temporary total disability |
| Payout Conditions | Paid to the nominee if the insured passes away during the policy term, subject to policy terms | Paid when the insured is hospitalised or incurs eligible medical expenses, as per policy conditions | Paid if the insured suffers injury, disability, or death as a result of an accident, subject to the policy terms |
| Recommended For | This policy is suitable for individuals who are the primary earning member of their family | It is advisable for individuals who are more likely to face medical issues and want protection against healthcare expenses | This cover is appropriate for those whose occupation involves a higher risk and may lead to hospitalisation due to the hazardous nature of their work |
| Key Benefits | Riders, such as critical illness or disability cover, may be added | Includes maternity benefits, wellness programmes, and cover for pre-existing conditions as per terms | Includes ambulance costs, hospital expenses due to the accident, and education support for dependant children |
Accidental Insurance vs Critical Illness Insurance
Accidental insurance and Critical illness insurance are both designed to provide financial protection during medical emergencies, but they serve very different purposes. Accidental insurance focuses specifically on injuries, disability, or death caused by unforeseen accidents. In contrast, critical illness insurance provides a lump sum payout when the insured is diagnosed with a specified serious illness, regardless of how it occurred. The following table shows the difference between accidental and critical illness insurance
| Parameters | Accidental Insurance | Critical Illness Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Importance | Provides financial compensation only if death or disability occurs due to an accident | Pays a lump sum benefit upon diagnosis of listed serious illnesses such as cancer, kidney failure, or paralysis |
| Coverage | Covers accident-related injuries and disabilities, but does not include illnesses or medical conditions | Covers specified major illnesses as defined in the policy terms |
| Features | Cashless settlement or reimbursement options are available | A lump sum benefit is paid upon hospitalisation and, in some cases, upon confirmed diagnosis, even before admission |
| Waiting Period | Does not involve a waiting period for accidental events | Includes a waiting period, often ranging between 90 and 180 days from policy commencement |
| Medical Checkup | Usually not required, depending on the insurer’s terms | Commonly required before policy issuance |
What is Not Covered Under Personal Accident Insurance?
Exclusions refer to the provisions under an insurance policy that restricts coverage due to certain conditions. It includes the things that are not covered under the plan. The personal accident insurance policy also has some exclusions. They may vary with the insurer, as the comprehensive list of exclusions is only communicated to the policyholder.
Here is a general list of exclusions under the personal accident insurance policy: -

1. Intentional Injury
An emergency such as an accident can be both financially and emotionally distressing for the policyholder’s family members. In case the policyholder suffers fatal injuries or dies due to the accident, the entire sum insured is paid to the nominee as mentioned in the policy document.
2. Injuries from Civil or Foreign Wars
If the accident results in permanent disability or lifelong impairment such as loss of limbs, then a pre-determined sum insured is paid to the policyholder depending on the severity.
3. Injuries Due to Consumption of Alcohol or Drugs
Under the personal accident insurance policy, a certain percentage (up to 100%) of the sum insured is paid to the insured in case of bodily injuries resulting in permanent partial disability.
4. Accidents Due to Riding a two-Wheeler over 150cc
The claim for a personal accident insurance policy will be rejected if the accident is determined to have been caused while the policyholder was riding a two-wheeler with an engine capacity of more than 150cc.
5. HIV/AIDS/STDs
If it is found out that the accident leading to death or disability is caused because the policyholder suffers from an STD, the claim will not be honoured.
6. Injuries Due to Involvement in Violent Public Disturbances
The involvement of policyholders in any kind of public disturbance, protest, riot, strike, demonstration, etc., can cause the personal accident insurance claim rejection.
7. Injuries on Duty with Military/ Paramilitary/ Police Force
Injuries caused due to policyholder’s duty with the military, paramilitary, or police force are also not covered under the personal accident insurance policy.
8. Injuries from Unsafe Sports
If the injuries are caused due to participation in unsafe sports such as mountaineering, rafting, bungee jumping etc., the claim will be denied.
9. Pre-existing Illnesses
If the accident occurs as a result of a pre-existing medical condition or a worsening illness, the policyholder will not receive the claim benefits.
10. Claim Arising Out of Pregnancy/Childbirth
The claim arising from pregnancy or childbirth-related issues will not be covered under the personal accident insurance policy.
How to File a Personal Accident Insurance Claim?
Filing a personal accident insurance claim promptly and correctly is essential to ensure a smooth settlement process. Since personal accident policies only cover injuries, disability, or death caused by accidents, insurers require proper documentation and timely notification to validate the claim. Understanding the standard procedure can help avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.
Step 1: Inform the Insurer Immediately
Inform the insurance company immediately after the accident. Report the claim within the time mentioned in the policy. Contact the insurer through their helpline, website, or email.
Step 2: Complete and Submit the Claim Form
Fill out the claim form with accurate accident details. Mention the injury and treatment received. Submit the required supporting documents. These may include your policy number and medical reports. Attach hospital bills and discharge papers. Provide police reports, if required. Include accident details, photos, and witness statements. Share your contact information clearly.
Step 3: Obtain Claim Processing Confirmation
The insurer will review your submitted documents. Contact your agent or help desk for confirmation. Ask for updates from the claims team. Choose cashless treatment at a network hospital, if available. Otherwise, the claim will be processed as reimbursement.
Step 4: Clarify Any Queries
The insurer may request additional information. Respond quickly to avoid delays in processing.
Provide clear explanations about the incident, if asked.
Step 5: Claim Decision and Settlement
The insurer will inform you about the final decision. If approved, the payout follows policy terms. If rejected, the insurer will explain the reasons clearly. Understanding this process ensures smoother claim settlement during emergencies
Documents Required to File a Personal Accident Insurance Claim
To file a reimbursement claim under a personal accident policy, you will generally need to submit the following documents
- A properly completed and signed claim form
- A copy of an insurance policy document
- Legal identity of the claimant
- Relevant medical reports, prescriptions, and original bills
- FIR or police report, where the claim arises from an accident
- In case of hospital admission, a discharge summary
- Cause of death certificate, if the insured has passed away
- Post-mortem report
- Bank account details to enable smooth claim settlement
Note: The insurer may ask for additional documents.
Tax Benefits Under a Personal Accident Policy
Personal accident insurance is primarily designed to provide financial protection against accidental death or disability. However, unlike health insurance, it does not offer tax benefits under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act. Premiums paid towards a standalone personal accident policy are not eligible for deduction under the old tax regime.
This is because Section 80D applies specifically to health insurance policies that cover medical expenses arising from illnesses or hospitalisation. Since personal accident insurance focuses on compensation for accidental injury, disability, or death, it does not fall within the scope of eligible deductions.
That said, the absence of tax benefits does not reduce its importance. The policy provides a lump sum payout in case of accidental death or disability, helping manage income loss, loan repayments, children’s education costs, and daily household expenses. Its real value lies in financial security during unforeseen emergencies, rather than in tax savings.
Who is Eligible?
Here are the eligibility criteria for the personal accident insurance policy: -
- Individuals between 18 to 65 years of age are eligible for the personal accident insurance policy.
- You can buy this policy for any family member(s).
Check out the different Online Insurance Plans from Axis Max Life!
FAQs about Personal Accident Insurance
Can I claim multiple personal accident insurance?
Yes, you can purchase multiple personal accident insurance policies. It is totally legal in India. With multiple insurance policies, you can haveextra protection from future eventualities. You can get the total of all the policies as per the terms and conditions of the insurance company.
How do I claim the policy after an accident?
The policyholder can claim the personal accident insurance policy by following these steps: -
- Gather information at the accident scene
- Obtain witnesses
- Inform the details of the accident as soon as possible
- Keep all the medical bills
How can personal accident insurance help in case of accidental death?
In case of the unfortunate accidental death of the policyholder, the family receives the sum insured under the policy. This helps compensate for the family expenses, such as the children’s education.
What is the claim period for the personal accident insurance?
To file a claim for the personal accident insurance policy, you should inform the insurer about the accident as soon as possible. This can also be done on the official website of the insurance company.
Can I buy personal accident insurance?
Yes, anyone can buy a personal accident insurance policy by submitting the required documents to the insurance company.
What is the purpose of a personal accident insurance policy?
A personal accident insurance policy can help cover the treatment expenses arising from an accident. The policyholder can avail compensation in case of any permanent or partial disability.
What is not covered under personal accident insurance?
The death, injury, disability caused due to the following factors are not covered in the personal accident insurance policy: -
- Natural death
- Pre-existing conditions
- Childbirth or pregnancy
- Suicide or self-inflicted injuries
- Participating in war, riot, etc.
- Participating in an unsafe sports activity
What accidents are covered under personal accident insurance?
A personal accident insurance policy is specifically designed to offer financial protection against injuries, permanent disability, or death resulting due to an accident. Moreover, substantial compensation is provided in case of accidents when travelling.
What is the limit of personal accident insurance?
The maximum sum insured varies by insurer and plan selected. Coverage can range from a few lakhs to several crores. The limit usually depends on income and underwriting guidelines. Higher coverage may require income proof and medical evaluation. Always review policy documents for exact coverage limits.
Is personal accident insurance mandatory for individuals?
It is mandatory for registered vehicle owners and drivers. This rule is set by the IRDAI regulations. It applies to two-wheelers, cars, and commercial vehicles. Others can purchase it voluntarily for added protection.
Who is eligible for personal accident insurance?
Most insurers allow entry from 18 years of age. The upper age limit varies by insurer guidelines.
Some plans offer lifelong renewability. Health conditions may influence acceptance or premium rates. Certain high-risk occupations may face restrictions.
What documentation is required for personal accident cover?
Claims require submission of specific supporting documents. A death certificate is needed in fatal cases. A post-mortem report may also be required. An FIR is necessary for accidental incidents. Medical certificates and hospital bills must be submitted. Requirements may vary based on claim type.
Is it worth having a personal accident cover?
Yes, it provides affordable protection against accident risks. It offers lump sum benefits for death or disability. A personal accident cover supports income replacement during recovery periods. It complements existing life and health insurance policies. It helps families manage sudden financial shocks.
Is personal accident cover mandatory?
Yes, it is mandatory for registered vehicle owners and drivers. This requirement applies under IRDAI regulations.
Is there a waiting period for personal accident insurance?
Most personal accident policies have no waiting period. Coverage usually starts from the policy effective date. Claims are subject to policy terms and exclusions.
How much personal accident coverage do you need?
Experts recommend coverage equal to 100 times monthly income. This ensures adequate protection against income loss. Higher coverage may be suitable for larger liabilities. Consider loans and family expenses before deciding.
ARN NO: PCP/PAI/220124
Sources:
www.irdai.gov.in/ADMINCMS/cms/Uploadedfiles/107.%20Ind%20Personal%20Accident_UniversalSompo.pdf
www.policyholder.gov.in/whatlifeinsurancetobuy.aspx
www.irdai.gov.in/ADMINCMS/cms/Uploadedfiles/RTI_FAQ/FAQs%20on%20Health%20Insurance%20Regulations20201106.pdf https://irdai.gov.in/documents/37343/0/Final+guidelines+on+standard+PA+product-25.02.2021+%282%29.pdf/ba6be748-a838-530a-ea7d-c5be5dd7b8c3?t=1633499581090
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/wealth/insure/why-you-should-have-a-personal-accident-cover/articleshow/18195220.cms?from=mdr
https://irdai.gov.in/documents/37343/0/Final+guidelines+on+standard+PA+product-25.02.2021+%282%29.pdf/ba6be748-a838-530a-ea7d-c5be5dd7b8c3?t=1633499581090
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/road-accident-deaths-rise-to-177-lakh-in-2024-gadkari/article70361512.ece
www.irdai.gov.in/ADMINCMS/cms/Uploadedfiles/107.%20Ind%20Personal%20Accident_UniversalSompo.pdf
www.policyholder.gov.in/whatlifeinsurancetobuy.aspx
www.irdai.gov.in/ADMINCMS/cms/Uploadedfiles/RTI_FAQ/FAQs%20on%20Health%20Insurance%20Regulations20201106.pdf https://irdai.gov.in/documents/37343/0/Final+guidelines+on+standard+PA+product-25.02.2021+%282%29.pdf/ba6be748-a838-530a-ea7d-c5be5dd7b8c3?t=1633499581090
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/wealth/insure/why-you-should-have-a-personal-accident-cover/articleshow/18195220.cms?from=mdr
https://irdai.gov.in/documents/37343/0/Final+guidelines+on+standard+PA+product-25.02.2021+%282%29.pdf/ba6be748-a838-530a-ea7d-c5be5dd7b8c3?t=1633499581090
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/road-accident-deaths-rise-to-177-lakh-in-2024-gadkari/article70361512.ece
Customer Reviews
Axis Max Life Term Plan
“Axis Max Life has helped me to identify the right term plan with adequate Life Cover for protecting my family’s future financial and giving me the peace to enjoy my present existence in this earth. Axis Max Life has helped me to FORCIBLY SAVE MONEY through Endowment plans, thereby giving me a Guaranteed money at different stages of my life”
P. Kesavan
Axis Max Life Term Plan
“Over all online policy purchase process was easy and purpose form filling process was easy and online premium payment process was easy”
Zaid Anwar
Axis Max Life Term Plan
“Axis Max Life Term Plan is first proper Term Plan to take care of me and my Family. With Max, I am at Peace of Mind with Axis Max Life. I trust you and your Processes. I am Happy to have this Relationship. Manoj”
Manoj Chandwani
Axis Max Life Term Plan
“Life Insurance Products provide arrangements for future events and there are various requirements at different life stages. For events that are to occur beyond 10 yrs, Life Insurance products are the only option. Keeping above in mind, I have Term Insurance, Endowment products taken almost 19 yrs ago and they will give Tax Free Lump sum amounts; I have Guaranteed Income Products and also Annuity Plan. For little better return on my investment I have ULIP plans. I have products, that will provide 25 - 50 thousand every year on my Grand Children’s birthdate - Annual Gift from grandparents when we will not be around”
Ashok Shah
Axis Max Life Term Plan
“I had one endowment plan and one term plan with maxlife and I believe in making the difference with the help of MAXLIFE”
Satish Kumar
Easy To Use Calculators For You


How much term cover do I actually need?
Term Plan CalculatorHow much would your family need?
Human Life Value CalculatorSee how the latest budget on 1 February, 2020 impacts your tax calculation.
Tax CalculatorPopular Searches

Online Sales Helpline
- Whatsapp: 7428396005Send ‘Quick Help’ from your registered mobile number
- Phone: 0124 648 890009:30 AM to 06:30 PM
(Monday to Sunday except National Holidays) - service.helpdesk@axismaxlife.comPlease write to us incase of any escalation/feedback/queries.
Customer Service
- Whatsapp: 7428396005Send ‘Hi’ from your registered mobile number
- 1860 120 55779:00 AM to 6:00 PM
(Monday to Saturday) - service.helpdesk@axismaxlife.comPlease write to us incase of any escalation/feedback/queries.
NRI Helpdesk
- +91 11 71025900, +91 11 61329950 (Available 24X7 Monday to Sunday)
- nri.helpdesk@axismaxlife.comPlease write to us incase of any escalation/feedback/queries.










We would like to hear from you
Let us know about your experience or any feedback that might help us serve you better in future.
Do you have any thoughts you’d like to share?