Cycling insurance searches see 63% uptick during lockdown

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The figures suggest that there is a growing concern about cycling risks

Online enquiries for cycling insurance have increased by 63% in the two months since UK lockdown measures were introduced.

This is according to new figures from specialist cyclist insurance provider Cycleplan that point to a significant increase in people using bikes to commute, exercise and travel.

The survey found that eight in 10 people have reduced their reliance on cars and public transport during lockdown and instead cycled or walked for shorter journeys.

Meanwhile searches for the same term have also surged by 51% year-on-year during the period (23 March – 20 May 2020).

As the UK hits the two-month lockdown milestone on 23 May, the figures also suggest growing awareness and concern on cycling risks. This ranges from accidents and injuries to theft, loss and damage to the bike itself.

Peace of mind

John Woosey, Cycleplan’s founder and managing director, said: “The benefits of cycling for our health (and that of the environment) are numerous. However, millions of people across the UK are now being “actively encouraged” to cycle more. This comes with an element of risk – especially amongst those who may not have cycled regularly, or on busy roads, ever before.

“It’s therefore encouraging to see such an uplift in the amount of people searching for cycling insurance. Specialist policies not only offer cover against issues like injury, damage, loss and theft, but also help to provide much-needed financial peace of mind during this time.”

Prior to lockdown, a government survey revealed that three in five people (61%) thought cycling on the road was too dangerous.

And several campaign groups have highlighted that highway infrastructure is currently not equipped to cope with an influx of new cyclists on the roads.

Cycleplan offers tailored cover where policyholders only pay for what they need. In 2015, Cycleplan signed up Olympic and Commonwealth medallist Lizzie Deignan (formerly Armitstead) as its brand ambassador and has worked together to protect cyclists across the UK since.