MUMBAI: ICICI Lombard has introduced a new add-on to its motor insurance cover that assists the insured during the legal process following an accident. It has separately launched an industry-first roadside assistance programme with 30 minute response time across India including for battery charging and vehicle towing.The add-on, called Motor Sahayak, is offered under ICICI Lombard’s Private Car Package Policy and is positioned as a legal, documentation and distress assistance service that complements traditional motor insurance, which typically focuses on vehicle damage and third-party liabilities. The cover provides support through the immediate aftermath of an accident as well as during subsequent legal and regulatory processes.The product offers 24x7 emergency assistance through telephonic or virtual consultation in multiple languages, enabling policyholders to access guidance at any time. It includes procedural support for legal formalities following an accident, such as assistance related to bail processes and guidance on the release or custody of the insured vehicle. The insurer has clarified that this is facilitation support and does not extend to legal representation or guarantee outcomes such as bail or vehicle release.The two motor insurance add-ons are a part of 25 new initiatives launched to commemorate the company’s 25th anniversary. The other initiatives include a life-stage based women’s health product, pet insurance and AI solutions that facilitate health insurance purchase and customer service. “Five of these launches are industry-first while others are industry leading features,” said Sanjeev Mantri, MD & CEO, ICICI Lombard General Insurance.A key feature of the add-on is reimbursement of defence-related expenses arising from a covered accident. The policy covers reasonable and necessary legal costs up to the sum insured specified in the policy schedule. These include expenses related to bail application proceedings, costs incurred for release or recovery of the vehicle, advocate fees linked to the incident, and court filing and documentation charges. However, the insurer requires that it be informed within 48 hours of the incident and that prior written consent be obtained before incurring such expenses.Motor Sahayak also offers documentation/regulatory support such as challan regularisation and RTO record retrieval via physical/digital channels, ensuring post-accident and routine compliance.It does not cover bail bonds/surety, fines/penalties/court damages, or legal costs if guilt is proven. The pricing varies according to the vehicle.