Dozens of major companies have committed themselves to the government’s new ‘cycle to work’ initiative.
Under the scheme, private and public sector employers are encouraging their staff to ditch cars and public transport options for bikes, by providing enhanced cycling facilities.
Designated storage spaces, changing areas and access to the government’s generous tax break scheme will all be offered to workers at participating companies.
Transport secretary Andrew Adonis explained that the scheme would not only help staff get fit but would also reduce carbon emissions.
He said: “If proper facilities were more widely available, I believe far more people would cycle to work. At present only three per cent do so. We could double or treble that figure with proper bike storage and changing facilities and safe cycle routes.”
Lord Adonis added: “The number of GlaxoSmithKline employees cycling to work has tripled since they introduced the right facilities at their headquarters. I see no reason why the Cycle to Work Guarantee can’t spread this success widely.”
So far, more than 70 major public and private sector firms have signed up to the initiative.
Compare the cycle insurance market
A highly-competitive market has now prompted one cycle insurance provider to include third party and personal injury cover as standard.
A spokesperson for the ETA said: “Just as with any other type of insurance, it is vital that people shop around – many cyclists are paying over the odds for the extras that we include for free.”
Cycle insurance from the ETA includes the following | Does your policy match up? |
---|---|
New-for-old replacement – free race cover | No matter the age or condition of your bicycle |
Cover for accidental damage – free race cover | Much like fully-comp car insurance cover |
Free Cycle Rescue breakdown cover for bike and rider worth £34 | If you are unable to continue your journey due to an accident, vandalism or mechanical failure, a van comes to get you |
Third-party cover up to £1million | You don’t need to join a cycling club to get third party insurance – it’s included with this cycle insurance as standard |
Personal accident cover | Pays out up to £20,000 in the case of death or serious injury |
Cycle hire | In the event of a claim, keeps you on the road |
60 days’ European cover | Covers your bike on holiday |
‘Get you home’ cover | Reimbursement for a taxi home should your bike be stolen or damaged |
No-claims discount | Up to 40 per cent |
40 per cent discount for folding bikes | This type of bike is less likely to be stolen, so you shouldn’t be paying the same rates as non-folding cycles |
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