Bicycle theft figures demonstrate need for home insurance

Home insurance is one of the most important things a cyclist needs to consider, according to an industry expert.

The suggestion was made by Neil Laird of Sainsbury's Home Insurance, who backed it with figures showing that the theft of bicycles from residential property is not an uncommon occurrence.

Statistics compiled by the insurer show that in the last four-and-a-half years, 16 per cent of the stolen bicycle claims it has dealt with involved them being taken from the owners' homes.

Mr Laird said that as around 1,200 bicycles are taken every day in the UK, owners need to make sure they are prepared.

"It's important cyclists consider their bike security at home as well as away and ensure they have insurance against theft," he explained.

Theft is not the only problem cyclists may face, reports the BBC, as Police in Bath have revealed that they are handing out an increasing number of fixed-penalty fines for offences such as riding on the pavement or the wrong way down a one-way street.

31/07/2008 16:49:34