Can you feel Spring in the air? When the weather starts to get warmer, people here in Massachusetts can’t wait to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. One spectacular way to do so (while also getting some exercise) is to use a bicycle.
The Increasing Popularity of Bicycles
With the increase in environmental protection and a focus on being healthier, it’s only natural that we would see another “bike boom” here in the US. In the Spring of 2017, it was estimated that there were nearly 70 million bicyclists in the US.
This trend is also seeing an increase due to the emergence of bike sharing services. In Boston, you can rent a Hubway bike for $8 a day or get an annual pass for only $99! Their app will let you know where there is a hub near you.
Safety Tips for Riding
Even the most experienced riders can use a reminder of how to be safe while on a bicycle. Here are some tips for putting safety first:
- Ride a bike that fits you. Bikes come in all shapes and sizes, so take the time to find one that fits – this will depend on the measurements of both you and the bicycle.
- Your bike should be ready before you take it anywhere – even just on a quick spin. Take a look to make sure that all parts of the bike are secure and working well.
- Ensure that you are visible, especially at night. You may wish to purchase accessories for your bike or clothing that is reflective.
- You should be able to hear your surroundings when you’re riding, so avoid wearing headphones when you cycle. This will make it easier to stay vigilant while you ride and avoid accidents with pedestrians, vehicles, or other cyclists.
- Last but certainly not least, you should know the rules of the road. When using streets, bicycles are considered vehicles, so look up the Massachusetts rules of riding before your foot ever hits a pedal.
If you know anyone that rides (whether they are a beginner or an advanced bicyclist), share this post with them. You never know who might learn something new!
When You’re Not Riding
Bicycles and their accessories are expensive, so make sure that you take care of your bike even when you’re not riding it.
- Always keep your bike secure. If you take your bike out for errands or to your workplace, lock it up. As the saying goes, ‘It’s better to be safe than sorry!’
- Vary the location where you lock up your bike so that you’re not targeted be thieves.
- When you lock up your bike, make sure you secure it to a fixed, immobile object. It’s also important that you check to make sure that your bike and lock can’t be lifted up and off of the object.
- The type of lock that you use for you bike is important – there are many good options on the market, but U-locks are generally regarded as the safest option. Lock your bike up high (too low and it’s easy for a thief to break the lock) and always lock to the frame – never to a wheel.
On the off chance your bike is stolen, make sure that you have a picture of the bicycle to aid in the search when you report it as stolen to the police. It helps if you have your name and contact information etched into an inconspicuous location on the bike for proof of ownership. Also consider adding your bike to the National Bike Registry.
Properly Insure Your Cycle
Ok, we’ll admit it – there is not a product called ‘bicycle insurance’ like there is auto insurance or motorcycle insurance, but a bicycle is still a valuable and potentially dangerous object. There are two things you should make sure to properly insure: yourself, and your bike.
First, make sure that your cycle (and all of its upgrades and accessories) are listed in your home inventory. A home inventory is the only way to guarantee that you have a comprehensive list of your belongings in the event of a total loss, and it can be invaluable if you ever need to file a home insurance claim. Owners of particularly expensive bicycles should consider an endorsement for complete coverage.
Second, you need to make sure that you are covered in case of a bicycle accident. If you get sued because you injure someone in a bicycle accident, there should be liability coverage in your homeowner’s insurance or renter’s insurance that will cover you.
To find out more if your insurance policies are ready for your bicycling journeys, talk to your Massachusetts insurance agent at Vargas and Vargas Insurance – just call 617-298-0655. We can review your home insurance to cover your bike and check your liability protection. Make sure to mention to your agent if you’re going to be riding your bike instead of driving your car when you run errands or to commute to work, because less driving could mean a reduction in your auto insurance premium.
