As the weather heats up and gas prices continue to rise, more people are turning to their bicycles as a method of transportation. But regardless of whether you’re riding to work everyday or just riding around the block with your kids, it’s important to know the rules of the road and how your insurance would be affected in the event of a loss.

What happens if my bike is stolen or damaged?

Bicycles are covered under the personal property section of a standard homeowners or renters insurance policy. This coverage will reimburse you (minus the deductible), if your bike is stolen or damaged in peril listed on your policy.

What happens if I injure someone while riding my bike?

Your homeowners or renters insurance policy provides liability protection in the event you cause harm to someone or their property. Say you injure someone in a bike accident and they decide to sue. You will be covered up to your policy limits.

The Insurance Information Institute offers these suggestions to make filing a claim easier:

• Save all your receipts. The cost of bicycle accessories (helmet, pumps, etc.) adds up. If your bike and other items are stolen or damaged, having receipts will help the claims process.

• Add your bicycle to your home inventory. It’s a good idea to have an up-to-date home inventory to know how much insurance you have, and to help the claims filing process (in the event of a loss). Click here for a home inventory tool.

Suggestions for Locking Your Bike

• Always lock your bike to a fixed, immovable object.
• Do not lock it to items that can be easily broken, cut or removed.

• Don’t always lock your bike in the same place; a thief may notice a pattern and target you.

Safety While Riding:

• Never ride a bike without a helmet.
• Ride a bike that fits you and check to make sure all parts of the bicycle are secure.
• Bikes are considered vehicles on the road. Riders must follow the same traffic laws as cars!
• Assume you are not seen by others. Make yourself visible to other cyclists, motorists and pedestrians.
• Never wear headphones while riding a bike; they hinder your ability to hear traffic. Be aware of your surroundings.

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Information from Insurance Information Institute .