With the arrival of the warm season, bicycles are once again becoming a popular mode of transport, but along with this, the number of risks is also increasing. According to the insurance company, every third claim is related to theft.
As explained by the director of the insurance claims department, Ivo Danche, while thefts cause the greatest losses, bicycles are more often damaged by hitting a pothole, colliding with an obstacle, losing balance, or due to tire and other component damage. Cyclists themselves often sustain injuries in these incidents.
A "Good Catch" for Thieves
Over the past three years, half, or 50%, of bicycle-related claims involved various damages. In 34% of cases, the bicycle was stolen, while approximately 15% of cases involved injuries to the cyclist themselves.
"Bicycle damage usually occurs in very everyday circumstances, such as after hitting a pothole, curb, or other obstacle. Tire punctures from glass or construction debris are also common. Bicycles are less frequently damaged in collisions with cars or other cyclists. However, the greatest losses to cyclists are most often caused by thefts: the average compensation for a stolen bicycle exceeds 550 euros, while for damages it is around 180 euros," says Ivo Danche.
Bicycles "Disappear" Even During the Day and in Crowded Places
A well-visible location, a lock, or daylight does not deter thieves from reaching their desired bicycle. The largest insurance claims reported over the past three years show that criminals choose bicycles not only in remote or poorly lit areas but are also unafraid to commit thefts during the day, where people are present.
For example, the company paid 1,340 euros in compensation for a bicycle stolen from a schoolyard. In another case, 1,270 euros were paid for a bicycle stolen during working hours from a parking lot. In yet another situation, the compensation for a bicycle stolen from the yard of an apartment building, despite being locked in a designated area, amounted to 1,110 euros.
Among the largest cases was also an insurance payout of 909 euros for a bicycle stolen from a shopping center parking lot, and 885 euros for a bicycle stolen from rural property.
"At the same time, we see that not always the entire bicycle is stolen. Thieves often choose individual parts and equipment — handlebars, brakes, shifters, wheels, lights, and even just seats. But even in such situations, the bicycle ends up damaged, and investments are needed to restore it. If there is no insurance, this can mean several hundred euros in unexpected expenses," says Ivo Danche.
Accidents Affect Not Only Bicycles but Also Cyclists Themselves
In incidents, not only bicycles are damaged — the riders themselves sustain injuries. Just one unnoticed pothole, a sudden maneuver, or a collision with an obstacle can turn an ordinary ride into an event that results not only in a damaged bicycle but also in injuries.
In the company's practice, there was a case where a cyclist, riding on a forest path, collided shoulder-first with a tree and sustained an injury. In another situation, a child fell while riding down a hill and broke their forearm.
Injuries also occur when trying to avoid a collision with a pedestrian, losing balance on a wet and slippery road, as well as during failed maneuvers. For example, in one case, a cyclist fell while trying to avoid hitting a pedestrian. In another case, a cyclist went for a ride in rainy weather, slipped off the pedal, and hit their bike. There was also a case where a child sitting on the luggage rack had their foot caught in the spokes. "Cyclists often think about how to protect the bicycle itself, but it is equally important to protect oneself. A fall, a pothole, or an unnoticed obstacle can result not only in a punctured tire or a bent wheel but also in fractures, bruises, and other injuries. Therefore, with the onset of the cycling season, more people are insuring not only their bicycles but also choosing accident insurance. However, this does not negate the need to pay attention to the chosen route and road surface, as well as to one's riding style and safety — using a helmet, knee and elbow protection," says Ivo Danche.
