Does Health Insurance Cover Road Accident Injuries?

Road accidents remain a major concern in India. According to The Indian Express, the total number of accidents and fatalities on National Highways in 2025 reached 1,34,307 and 57,482 respectively. These numbers highlight the importance of being financially prepared for unexpected emergencies and protecting your loved ones.

This also leads to an important question, do health insurance policies cover accidental death or injuries. Find the answer below.

Can You Claim Expenses for Road Accident Injuries Through Health Insurance?

Health insurance can help cover expenses arising from road accident injuries. While most plans provide coverage for a wide range of medical conditions, including pre-existing diseases after applicable waiting periods, only select plans include benefits specifically related to accidents.

How Does Health Insurance Cover Road Accident Injuries?

1. Individual Accident Care Insurance Policy

With this policy, you can avail coverage for accidental death. Most health insurers offer 100% of the sum insured as a lump sum if the insured person dies due to a severe road accident.

In case the person suffers permanent total disability, most policies offer up to 150% of the sum insured, along with any applicable cumulative bonus. For partial disablement, insurers generally provide a specified percentage of the sum insured, depending on the extent of the injury.

2. Family Accident Care Insurance Policy

As the name suggests, it covers the expenses of the whole family (generally includes up to 2 adults and 3 children). Policyholders can avail 100% of the sum insured as a lump sum if the insured person passes away within one year from the date of the accident. The same benefit is usually payable if the person suffers permanent total disablement.

What are the Inclusions in the Health Insurance Plans That Cover Accidental Expenses?

1. Educational Grant

Some insurers provide up to ₹20,000 as an educational grant if the insured person passes away or suffers from permanent total disability. This benefit generally covers two dependent children.

2. Travel Expenses for One Relative

Some insurance companies agree to pay up to ₹50,000 as transportation costs of one relative to the insured person in case of accidental demise.

3. Ambulance Charges

If the accident occurs outside the insured’s residential area, the policy pays a lump sum to cover either ambulance charges to the hospital or the cost of transporting the insured’s mortal remains back home.

4. Purchase of Blood

Some policies also cover expenses for purchasing blood for the insured person’s medical or surgical treatment. It can be up to ₹10,000 and is calculated as an additional benefit over and above the sum insured.

Final Word

Health insurance acts as a shield during road accident-related emergencies. However, the extent of coverage may vary depending on the policy type and insurer. So, it is important to review policy terms carefully and choose a plan that offers adequate protection against accidental risks.