Do you have a black box recorder in your car? Many of us now do, and the numbers are increasing every year. People are willing to accept the idea that if they can prove themselves to be a safe driver, they should get cheaper car insurance. Is the same true for how we treat cyclists on the road though?
Awareness
According to a new plan announced by the government, drivers who take a course on how to drive around cyclists could be in line for a reduction in their car insurance premiums. The plan would encourage insurance companies to offer discounts for drivers who can prove they have passed a course which teaches them how to properly treat people on bikes.
This proposal is part of a wider intent by the government to make it safer for cyclists on the road. A similar suggestion is for courier companies to encourage drivers to take road safety training which makes them aware of cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders.
Evidence
Police officers would also be able to make use of new evidences. This could be footage gathered by devices such as dash cams and helmet cams. They would be able to charge drivers who put cyclists and other vulnerable road users in danger. The hope is that encouraging drivers to act more responsibly around cyclists, and making to easier to prosecute those who do not will make more people willing to cycle.
Cheaper for Everyone
Making car insurance cheaper has worked in the past. Black Box recorders have been proven to make young drivers (who often use them) safer drivers. Older people are expressing desire to use recording technology so they can lower their premiums. This in turn makes them drive more safely. If lowering car insurance premiums is what it takes to make people drive safely around bikes, then evidence suggests it will work.
Alternative Insurance Brokers offer insurance policies for both car and bicycle users. For cyclists, we offer specialist cyclist policies that cover you against your bike being stolen, you having an accident on your bike, or loss of earnings if you use it for work. For car drivers, we offer breakdown cover, excess protection and key care policies. These help cover you and your car in case the unexpected happens. Get a quote on any of our policies today with Alternative Insurance Brokers on 0161 388 2520.