Jon Johnson File Photo/Gila Herald
Across the United States, there are millions of people who enjoy nothing more than grabbing their bikes and going for a ride. Whether you stay close to home or go further afield, nothing quite comes close to getting outdoors, jumping on the saddle, and exploring the wonders of the world.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or you’ve just invested in your first bike, your safety and security should be your top priority. With that said, taking out bike insurance is simply a no-brainer. Here we will dive into some of the leading reasons why insurance is essential for you and your bike’s security.
Theft protection
All cyclists need to be on their guard whenever they take their bikes out for a ride. It doesn’t matter where you’re going, there’s always the chance of people up to no good spotting your bike and stealing it. Bike theft is unfortunately a common occurrence. Therefore, having insurance in place can help safeguard your bicycle against such a risk. When you take out a bike insurance policy, you’ll have financial coverage to repair or replace your stolen bike. Should you become a victim of bike theft, having the reassurance you’re protected will mean you can get back on the saddle quickly.
Cover for accidental damage
When you’re riding on the road, cyclists face all kinds of risks. These can include collisions with other vehicles, falls, or damage caused by unforeseen events. If you take out bike insurance, you’ll have protection from accidental damage. This ensures any repairs or replacement costs are taken care of, meaning you won’t have to stress. You may wish to use Velosurance. They provide bicycle insurance to protect your lifestyle and offer crash damage in the event your bike is damaged in an accident.
Third-party liability
Although cyclists tend to be at a higher risk of injury than others using the road, there are situations where cyclists can be at fault for an accident, particularly with pedestrians. These types of accidents are more prevalent in city centers, where congested roads can very easily lead to collisions between yourself and others. If you caused the accident and are deemed to be at fault, there is the chance that you could be sued by a third party. Having bicycle insurance behind you can bring huge relief, especially as it can cover the costs of legal claims and compensation. This liability coverage is essential for protecting your finances from potentially substantial expenses.
Personal accident cover
Regardless of how much experience you have as a cyclist, there is always the risk of sustaining personal injuries whenever you get on the saddle. Should you have a crash, some people may only escape with a few cuts and bruises, whereas others can suffer more serious injuries that could even be life-threatening. If you experience any cycling injuries, medical expenses can quickly rack up. If you take out bicycle insurance, this will provide coverage for personal accidents and financial protection for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and any other associated expenses stemming from accidents while cycling.
Global coverage
For cyclists who like to push themselves out of their comfort zone and take their bikes further afield, you’ll be happy to know certain bike insurance policies can cover you worldwide. This means wherever you go, you’ll have peace of mind during your overseas cycling adventure. Should your bike sustain any damage or you get injured, having the right coverage in place will certainly reduce stress levels and help you get the treatment and financial aid you need regardless of where you are on the planet.
Peace of mind
Cycling should be an exciting and fun activity. However, it can bring a whole load of stress, especially if you’re worried about your pride and joy being damaged or stolen. Instead of having these worries whenever you hit the open road, taking our insurance will instantly bring you peace of mind. Knowing you’ve got protection against unforeseen circumstances will not only lower stress but allow you to fully immerse yourself in your cycling experience.
Gear and accessories coverage
You may be under the impression insurance solely covers your bike. However, policies can extend to gear and accessories too, like helmets, locks, and lights. In the event of damage or theft to these essential items, your insurance can help in covering the cost of replacement. This means you can get back on your bike in no time without any undue financial burden.
No claims bonus
Like other kinds of insurance, bike insurance often provides a no-claims bonus. Should you not make any claims within a specific timeframe, you could be eligible for a discount on your premiums. Providing you follow safe cycling practices, there’s the chance of being financially rewarded for it which should act as an incentive.
Cover for competitive events
Not every cyclist enjoys racing their bikes or going on super-long rides. However, for those who do and enjoy partaking in organized sporting events, there are specialist cycling insurance policies you can look into that can cover you for such competitions. Many organized events and races may not ask for evidence of bike insurance, although it’s definitely something worth looking into if you plan to enter these sorts of events. This coverage can include protection against injuries, theft, or accidental damage that may occur during competitive events.
Cost-effectiveness
If there is one thing that should put your mind at rest, it’s knowing that bike insurance can be pretty affordable. This means you don’t have to spend a fortune on your insurance. The amount you pay will depend on numerous factors. These include the value of your bicycle, where you live, and the level of coverage you pick. When you consider the potential expenses associated with bike theft, accidents, and damage, investing in bike insurance is a no-brainer. While you will pay a small sum each month for your insurance, it’s a minimal price to pay when compared to the overall cost of replacing a stolen bike if you’re not covered.
Legal requirement
Although bike insurance coverage isn’t a legal requirement in the United States, the same can’t be said for other countries across the world. If you’re heading on an international bike trip, it may be mandatory for you to take out insurance. Should you fail to do so, you could be landed with a hefty fine. Obtaining bike insurance for that reason will ensure you stay on the right side of the law.
While cycling brings an array of benefits, it’s crucial to protect yourself and your investment by considering bike insurance. Having this coverage behind you will not only protect you against theft but accidental damage too. Sure, bike insurance may not be a legal requirement in the US, but for those who have splurged on an expensive model, you’ll want to do everything possible to protect your bike, which is where insurance comes into the equation.
Once you’ve chosen a suitable bike insurance policy, you can enjoy worry-free rides knowing you’ve got financial protection against potential risks. This means you can concentrate on what you love doing the most – pedaling, exploring, and getting the most out of your bike.
